A black discoloration under an acrylic nail can be concerning, but it is a relatively common issue with several potential causes. Understanding these causes, how they manifest, and when to seek professional help can guide appropriate action and promote nail health.
Common Reasons for Discoloration
One frequent cause of a black nail under acrylic is a subungual hematoma, essentially a bruise beneath the nail. This occurs when blood vessels under the nail bed rupture due to trauma. The trapped blood can appear black, dark brown, or purple, often resulting from an impact like stubbing a toe or catching a finger, or from excessive pressure from tight-fitting acrylics.
Fungal infections are another common reason for nail discoloration. These infections thrive in moist, warm, and dark environments created when moisture becomes trapped between the natural nail and a loose or improperly applied acrylic. While a fungal infection can appear black, it frequently presents as yellow, green, or brown discoloration, potentially leading to a brittle or thickened nail.
Bacterial infections can also cause discoloration under artificial nails. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a frequent culprit, leading to “green nail syndrome.” This bacterium produces pigments that typically result in a green, green-yellow, or green-brown discoloration, but as the infection progresses, it can appear dark green or even black. These bacteria flourish in warm, damp environments with limited oxygen, such as those found under lifted acrylics.
When to See a Professional
If any discoloration is observed under an acrylic nail, it is advisable to remove the acrylic immediately to assess the underlying nail and prevent the condition from worsening. Certain signs indicate that professional medical attention is necessary. These include severe pain, swelling, redness, pus, or red streaks extending from the nail, which can signal a spreading infection.
A doctor’s visit is needed if the discoloration appeared without known trauma, if it shows no improvement after acrylic removal, or if it changes in size, shape, or color. Though rare, persistent or changing dark lines or spots on the nail, known as melanonychia, should always be evaluated by a medical professional. While most melanonychia cases are benign, resulting from increased melanin production, it can rarely be a sign of subungual melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer that develops under the nail.
Taking Care of Your Nail and Preventing Future Issues
After removing the acrylic nail, gentle care aids recovery. Keeping the nail clean and dry is crucial, especially if an infection is suspected. Allowing the natural nail to breathe and grow without immediate reapplication of artificial nails helps its recovery. Applying cuticle oil and hand cream can help combat dryness and keep the nail bed nourished.
To prevent future issues, prioritize proper nail hygiene and maintenance. Ensure acrylics are applied by a reputable salon that adheres to sterilization practices to avoid bacterial or fungal transmission. Promptly address any lifting of the acrylic, as this creates spaces where moisture and pathogens can accumulate. Taking regular breaks from acrylics allows the natural nails to recover and reduces the risk of recurrent problems. Protecting nails from trauma and avoiding prolonged exposure to water can also help maintain their health.