When a nail is injured, it can assume a number of different appearances. The most common, of course, would be a discoloration of the nail plate due to bleeding under or around the nail. This condition is referred to as a subungual hematoma, or hemorrhage in the nail plate (similar to a bruise on the skin). When this occurs, the blood accumulates under the nail and it usually causes the nail plate to separate from the nail bed. In addition, the accumulation of blood underneath the nail plate can create pressure and pain. To relieve the pressure, a doctor will cut back the nail plate with a nail nipper to release the accumulated blood. This now leaves the nail bed exposed, and the client will have to wear a bandage for a few days. The new nail will grow rapidly when the separated nail plate is cut away. Once the discolored, bruised, or infected nail has been properly diagnosed by a doctor and treated, it is then safe to work on that client, provided there is no sign of infection, bleeding, pain, or allergy to acrylic. A tip may be applied to the remaining nail plate if the client has no sensitivities to the products (not recommended for clients with chronic lifting). There is no harm in applying nail polish. Clients may actually appreciate the camouflage.
Health
When can I work on bruised nails?
February 22, 2005
More FAQ
I recently got ringworm on my arm from a client who had it on her nail bed. How do I treat it?
I recently got ringworm on my arm from a client who had it on her nail bed. How do I treat it?... read more
What can I do to help a client who does not chew her nails, but chews the skin around her nails?
What can I do to help a client who does not chew her nails, but chews the skin around her nails?... read more
Can fungus be transmitted from one client to another with a file if proper sanitation is used or if files are disposed of? Is it airborne?
Can fungus be transmitted from one client to another with a file if proper sanitation is used or if files are disposed of? Is it airborne?... read more
I understand how allergic reactions work, but I am very perplexed at the high incidence of it I’m having lately. Please help.
In my 21 years of doing nails, I’ve had about eight people become allergic to acrylic monomer. However, in the past year I’ve had six clients become allergic. I’ve been using the same product for about five years and have had no problem until recently. I contacted the manufacturer to see if they knew of any problems and they didn’t. I understand how allergic reactions work, but I am very perplexed at the high incidence of it I’m having lately. Please help.... read more
Could the vitamins a client takes cause her nails to lift?
I have a client whose nails are lifting from the nail bed, but only about a quarter of the way. They grow just fine, but then they start to lift again. She had an acrylic overlay on for about two weeks and when that acrylic came off, the nails were perfect. Soon after, they started lifting again. She is using a nail strengthener and is on several medications and vitamins.... read more
Reader to Reader: How do you combat burnout?
How do you combat burnout?... read more
Is it ok to pedicure a client with lots of warts?
A client came in for a pedicure with what looked like warts all over the back of her heels, up and around the sides of the ankles. They were small and perfectly round, no liquid inside, very dry and hard, with a touch of whitish pink color to them. She said she’d had them a long time. She said it was just dry skin (she called them skin tags) and she told me she files them right off. She is taking medication for her heart and to lower her cholesterol. What is this condition? Is it contagious? Is it OK to proceed with a pedicure?... read more
How do I know when to change the disinfectant solution in my jar?
How do I know when to change the disinfectant solution in my jar? At school they said to change it when it has stuff floating in it, but that can’t be sanitary. Does it become ineffective when it has been used for a while?... read more
What are my responsibilities if a client acquires a nail infection after I have performed a nail service on her?
What are my responsibilities if a client acquires a nail infection after I have performed a nail service on her?... read more
What is a glomus tumor?
I had a client with a nail tumor who was reluctant to go to the doctor. We made her go and it was removed and biopsied. They said it was a glomus tumor. What is this?... read more
Why do my clients have dark spots on the soles of their feet?
When doing pedicures I have noticed that several of my clients have dark spots on the soles of their feet. Do you have any idea what these spots could be?... read more
The Nail Doctor
There is a growth of skin under four of my client’s nail and the nail plate near the free edge has a white color to it. I apply acrylic as an overlay to make her nails stronger. She takes blood pressure medication and Tamoxifen to prevent a recurrence of breast cancer. What is going on with her nails? ... read more