Bruised nails: tips & treatment

Trapped toes, forceful blows and damaged digits are just a selection of the culprits responsible for creating talons with a tinge - think dark purple, black and brown - but can we banish the bruise without aggravating the affected area?

Although flaunting fingertips covered in spots of congealed blood - the result of injury induced bleeding between the nail bed and nail plate - may not resemble the statement set of talons you were hoping for, the affected area can be disguised via the application of dark enamel until the bruise has grown out with the nail plate - the dried blood will naturally attach to the underside of the nail, grow out and eventually disappear.

If the injury is of an extreme nature, your GP will take the necessary precautions to prevent pressure induced lifting of the natural nail plate by piercing the plate to release the blood - a simple procedure that should result in the application of a protective dressing and avoidance of professional manicure treatments unless a letter of authorization has been obtained from your GP.

Remember that regardless of the severity of injury, pressure over the affected area should be avoided until the nail has healed.