What should you know about toenails discoloured by nail polish?

Pigment can remain on or within the outer nail layers after polish is removed, especially when a strong colour has been worn repeatedly. The stain is usually most noticeable on the exposed nail and should gradually move forward as the nail grows. Removing polish may reveal the true nail surface and any texture changes.

Colour alone does not show whether a nail is healthy. Nail fungus can cause yellowing with thickening or crumbly material, while nail psoriasis may cause pits, ridges, lifting, or colour changes. A dark mark that is confined to one area and does not move with growth needs an examination.

Remove polish gently, wash and dry the feet, and give the nails a break from colour so you can observe them. Avoid scraping, buffing aggressively, or using harsh products to force away a stain. Keep tools clean and do not share them. Choose footwear that does not repeatedly press on the nail.

If the nail is thick, crumbly, lifting, or persistently yellow, ask about [Nail Fungus](/conditions/nail-fungus/) rather than assuming polish is responsible. Treatment such as [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/) is selected only after an appropriate assessment.

Arrange a review if colour does not grow out, the nail becomes painful or thick, or the surrounding skin is red, swollen, or draining. Seek prompt assessment for a new dark streak or patch, bleeding without an obvious injury, or a nail that is separating from its base.

For a broader overview of causes and warning signs, see [Discoloured Nails](/symptoms/nail-discoloration/). Nail psoriasis can also affect the nail surface and growth pattern; see [Nail Psoriasis](/conditions/nail-psoriasis/) for context.

Ask whether the colour looks like polish staining, whether the nail texture suggests fungus or psoriasis, and whether any sample or follow-up is needed. Mention how long the polish was worn and whether the colour is moving outward with growth.