You may worry about seeing those black lines under your nails. It can be caused due to poor hygiene and dirty fingernails.
But sometimes thin black lines on the nail can be a sign of serious disease. In this case, you need to get a health checkup.
But if you are sure that the black line appearing on your nail is due to poor hygiene then you can try out some home remedies to treat them.
In this article, we will share with you how to get rid of black lines on nails.
What Are Those Thin Black Lines on Nails?
Black lines on nails are common up to a certain degree and most of the time it is harmless.
Dirt and skin cells under the nail bed can cause black lines to appear. Dirt under the nails is called keratin debris by dermatologists.
Though there is nothing to worry much about the black lines caused due to dirty nails but dirty nails are not acceptable.
And you should keep them clean to maintain proper hygiene. Also Read: Dry Skin Around Nails: Know the Cause and How to Get Rid of It
Causes of Black Lines on Nails
Let us find out what causes those black lines to appear.
| Due to an Injury | You may have a black and brown line on your nail due to an injury or squishing your nails between doors. |
| Poor Hygiene | Black lines can appear due to fungal infection, poor hygiene, or nutritional deficiency. |
| Hormonal Changes | During pregnancy, hormonal changes in the body might cause black lines to appear on the nails. |
| Age | Black lines are common in dark-skinned people and can also appear as you age. |
| Melanoma | Sometimes a Blackline can be a common symptom of melanoma which can be a serious condition. This takes place when your body produces too many melanocytes. In this case, you should get your nails checked by a medical professional. |
| Psoriasis | Black lines can also be caused by psoriasis. In this condition, your skin turns out to be red, itchy, and scaly. |
| Endocarditis | Endocarditis makes heart muscles and valves inflamed and infected. it is a Heart condition that can also be the cause of black lines on the nails of a few people. |
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Can You Treat Black Lines on Nails?
Sometimes, the black lines on the nails may not require any treatment. The treatment depends on the cause of the line.
As mentioned above there are several causes that lead to the black lines on nails like psoriasis, melanoma, and endocarditis.
If psoriasis is the cause of the black line on your nails then, you need different topical and oral treatments to prevent the condition.
If the black line is caused by endocarditis then, your doctor may suggest antibiotics and even surgery.
If melanoma causes black lines on your nails then, your doctor will remove the melanoma area of the skin under the fingernail. To prevent it from spreading your doctor may amputate the finger.
How to Get Rid of Black Lines on Nails Naturally?
If the black lines appearing on your nails are not due to any serious health problem then, you can try out these natural remedies to get rid of it.
These tips can help you to get rid of black lines caused due to poor hygiene, nutritional deficiency, and fungal infection.
Use Lemon
Lemon has both antifungal and antibacterial properties to treat black lines caused due to poor hygiene and fungal infection.
Dip a cotton ball in some lemon juice and apply it to your nails. You can also apply lemon juice directly to your nails. To get visible results, follow this remedy thrice a day.
Coconut Oil
Moist areas increase the chance of growing fungus and bacteria. Coconut oil provides protection against moisture and contains antifungal properties.
Apply coconut oil on your nails 3 times a day to prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria.
Baking Soda for Black Line on Nail
Baking soda can be very effective in removing black lines from nails caused due to fungal infections as it contains antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with water and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar. Soak your fingers in this mixture for 15 minutes and then pat your nails dry.
To prevent black lines and remove fungus, repeat this treatment twice a day. You might also like: How to Cure Yellow Thick Toenails Quickly at Home
Try Yogurt
Yogurt helps to balance bacteria in your body. It is probiotic which means it contains “good bacteria”.
You can use yogurt on nails topically. Apply it on your nails and leave it for 15 minutes. Then wash your nails and pat dry.
You can also consume yogurt to prevent infection that can cause black lines. Repeat the treatment twice a day.
Your Diet
You need to eat a healthy and balanced diet if the black line on your nail is due to nutritional deficiency. You need to eat foods that contain a high amount of vitamins C; B.
You should consume more leafy green vegetables, eggs, nuts, Fish, and bell peppers. You can also take supplements like iron and zinc.
Let It Be as It is
Black lines can often form due to injuries when the blood gets clotted.
So, it is best to leave it as it is. It will go away on its own even if you do nothing about it.
Consult a Doctor
You should visit a doctor if you think the black line on your nail can be due to some serious health condition.
Your doctor can perform tests and address the problem right away. Also Read: How To Remove Gel Nail Polish Without Nail Damage
Tips to Maintain Proper Nail Health
- To avoid growing bacteria and fungus keep your nails clean and dry. It is best to avoid making your nails too long and trim your nails once every few days.
- To prevent your nails from breakage and to keep it protected and hydrated apply moisturizers on your nails.
- Following a proper diet and exercise can make your nails healthy and can also remove black lines from nails gradually.
- Avoid using chemical and harsh products on your nails. Use protective gloves when you are handling chemicals.
- To strengthen your brittle, weak nails you can take supplements like biotin.
So these are easy and natural tips to get rid of black lines on nails. Following hygiene and a healthy diet and keeping your nails healthy.
But if you think the black and brown line is due to some serious health condition then, definitely consult your doctor so that you can prevent it from getting worse.
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