Why do greenies happen when wearing press-on nails?
Greenies are arguably the most common concern for anyone who gets their nails done, including press-on nail wearers. We’ll go through what causes them and how to prevent them.
Commonly known as greenies, this nail discolouration is usually a result of some form of bacterial infection. The bacteria produce pigments that show up in a range of hues, mostly green, blue-green or dark green marks on the natural nail (it really depends on the severity of the development).
Why does this happen?
Greenies develop when moisture, dirt, air bubbles and oils get trapped between the press-on and the natural nail. This can happen due to improper nail prep, when the bond of the glue (adhesive tabs or liquid glue) starts to weaken, the nail begins to lift, and water gets underneath the press-on. The warm, damp environment is what these bacteria thrive in.
The most common causes are:
Improper nail prep, like not cleaning and dehydrating the natural nail before application.
Applying press-ons to damp or oily natural nails (avoid getting your nails wet at least one hour before and after application).
Prolonged wear after the glue’s bond starts to weaken. This increases the chances of moisture seeping in and becoming trapped.
Lifting or loose press-on nails leave small gaps that allow water, dirt and debris to collect and get trapped underneath.
Reapplying over damaged or discoloured natural nails will only make it harder to spot and address the issue.
While it’s not necessarily a sign of poor hygiene, it is a potential risk that can occur even with careful application.
How to prevent greenies (as much as you can)
Prep your natural nails carefully. They must be clean, product-free and completely dry before applying your press-on set.
Check for lifting and reapply using proper application techniques as soon as possible if the press-on nail starts to feel loose.
Dry your hands and nails thoroughly after being exposed to water. This will help prevent water from seeping in and getting trapped.
Refresh your set regularly, inspect your nails’ health in between sets, and give them a chance to recover, especially if you have thin, damaged or brittle nails.
What to do if you notice green discoloration
Remove the press-on nail properly (soak in warm water with gentle soap). Never forcefully pry off the press-on.
Leave the nail uncovered, clean and dry. Avoid wearing press-on nails or applying polish to cover the discolouration.
Consult a licensed nail or healthcare professional, especially if the discolouration persists or you experience pain, swelling, redness or discharge.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerns about your nail health, consult a qualified healthcare professional.