True story: Constant manis can leave your nails a little on the…yellow side. And it’s a vicious cycle: The more stained your nails look, the more likely you are to want to cover them up with polish.
Bonus: It don’t cost a thing. Luckily, there’s a seriously easy way to whiten your nails, and it won’t cost you a thing.
Before you freak, know this: yellow nails could just be staining from polish, says Chris Adigun, dermatologist and nail specialist. (So think: How many manicures have you had recently?)
Do keep in mind that a change in colour could also signal diseases like diabetes, says Debra Jaliman; author of Skin Rules. Which should be treated by prescription or insulin. However, there is such a thing called Yellow Nail Syndrome-where the nail thickens, turns yellow, and growth slows. It is often a sign of a respiratory disease like bronchitis, too says Jaliman.
All you need is a little bit of toothpaste. Yep, you read that right: toothpaste. Take a pea-sized amount of toothpaste (or less) and rub it in circular motions with an old toothbrush. Let it sit for five minutes then rinse.
The reason it works: According to the American Dental Association, toothpaste contains mild abrasives like silica gels and phosphate salts that remove surface stains. Do this a few times a week to really get rid of stains. You’ll love showing off your sparkling digits, sans the polish.
Here’s to having brighter nails that don’t cost a thing…
This feature was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com.
