Painting your nails can lead to unintended consequences, including changes in appearance that resemble a fungal infection. A common example is the development of chalky white patches on the nail's surface, known as keratin granulations. Additionally, prolonged use of red or dark nail polish can cause yellowing of the nails, as pigments in the polish stain the nail surface.

While it is generally safe to paint over these benign discolorations, doing so may make the underlying discoloration worse. To minimize the risk of discoloration, apply a base coat before using nail polish. If discoloration does occur, it can take 12 to 18 months for toenails to grow out completely (much slower than fingernails).

There are other ways that painting nails can contribute to nail damage. Acetone nail polish removers can dry out nails by stripping them of their natural oils. Non-acetone removers use less aggressive solvents but are often less effective and may require greater effort.

Some people buff their nails to make polish adhere better. This practice thins the nail plate, making nails more prone to breakage.

The type of nail polish also matters. Unlike traditional air-dried nail polish, gel polish dries under an ultraviolet light and undergoes polymerization to become more resilient. Therefore, the removal process of gel polish is more aggressive, involving soaking and scraping which can damage the nail.

There is currently no robust evidence whether "non-toxic" polishes are safer than traditional nail polishes.

A final note about pedicures. Nails should be cut straight across to prevent issues like ingrown nails. And avoid trimming cuticles, as they serve to protect your nails and surrounding skin from infection.

If you have questions about a toenail, schedule an appointment with Dr. Steven Miller by calling (847) 675-3400.