Green bacteria on nails grow where moisture stays trapped under the nail plate. The discolouration shows through the nail, so it is easy to spot early. At your visit we take care of that spot so the nail can grow out undisturbed.
A green patch appeared on the nail
Green bacteria under the nail leave a patch or stripe that ranges from yellow-green to dark green. The nail often lifts away from the toe at that spot. In summer it can make you reluctant to bare your feet. If the nail also changes thickness or shape, see our page on changed nails.
We clean the nail and check what is underneath
First we look at the nail and assess whether, and how far, it has lifted from the nail bed. Then we clean the nail and trim the detached part. Finally, we dry it thoroughly. Before your visit, do not paint the nail with polish or gel, so the change stays visible.
You leave with a care plan
After the procedure the nail is clean and dry. You get advice for home: how to look after the nail, how to trim it and what to avoid until the discoloured part grows out. You can combine the cleaning with a podological pedicure visit.
After the procedure you can book a follow-up visit at a time that suits you. We then look at the nail again and decide together whether another cleaning is needed or home care is enough.
We take the time to answer questions about anything that worries you in how the nail or the skin around it looks. If the change does not look like something for a podologist, we will say so openly and suggest where to go.
Prices are approximate. Your podologist confirms the final price after assessing the nail.
Where did the green bacteria on my nail come from?
Most often from moisture trapped in a gap by the nail. Such a gap forms where the nail has started to lift from the toe, for example after a knock. The bacteria also thrive under gel or polish worn for a long time without a break. Long hours in closed, damp shoes help them too.
Is green bacteria on the nail contagious?
It can spread to other nails when conditions suit it, so keep to a few simple rules. Use your own scissors, file and towel. After bathing, dry your feet thoroughly, including between the toes. At your visit we will tell you how careful you need to be in your case.
What should I do if I notice a green nail?
Book a visit and keep the nail dry until then. Do not tear off a lifting nail or cut out the discoloured area yourself, as it is easy to injure the skin under the nail. The sooner we see the nail, the easier it is to plan the cleaning and home care.
What happens during the procedure and how long does it take?
About 30 minutes for one nail, longer for several. After a short chat we work on the nail and tell you what we are doing as we go. In the vast majority of cases the procedure is well tolerated. If the area is sensitive, we use soothing products.
How long until the nail is clear again?
It depends on how fast your nail grows. The discoloured part moves forward with the nail, and we trim it bit by bit at each visit. Toenails grow slowly, so this takes months rather than a single procedure. At every visit we tell you how much is left.
Is green bacteria the same as onycholysis?
No. Onycholysis is when the nail lifts away from the nail bed. Green bacteria cause discolouration, which often appears in exactly that kind of gap. The two can occur together, but they do not have to. When we see both, we plan care that takes both into account.