Discolored nails after polish

Pigments from dark polish may leave yellow, orange, or brown staining on the nail surface. Acetone, scraping, filing, picking, or repeated manicures can dry or thin the nail and irritate surrounding skin. Discoloration that remains after the nail grows out, affects one nail, or comes with thickening, crumbling, lifting, or debris may also reflect nail fungus or nail psoriasis rather than polish alone.

Remove polish gently, avoid scraping the surface, and give the nails a break from products that sting or cause peeling. Keep nails trimmed, dry hands well, and use moisturiser on the nails and cuticles. Do not share files or tools, and avoid cutting the cuticles. Photograph the change so you can compare it as the nail grows. If the color does not improve or the nail becomes thick or crumbly, arrange a clinical examination before using antifungal medicine.

Seek assessment for persistent discoloration, a dark streak that changes, pain, swelling, pus, bleeding, marked tenderness, or a nail lifting from its bed. Prompt review is especially useful when one nail changes without a clear polish-related explanation. A clinician may inspect the nail and decide whether testing or treatment is needed.

Does this look like surface staining or a nail disorder? Should the nail be tested for fungus? Could a recent manicure have injured it? What treatment is appropriate if fungus or psoriasis is present?