A client presents with significant lifting around the cuticle area of her acrylic nails, and a greenish-yellow discoloration is visible underneath the lifted portion. What is the most likely cause of this discoloration, and what is the appropriate course of action for the technician?
- AMold (Pseudomonas bacteria); remove the enhancement, clean the nail, and refuse reapplication until cleared.
- BProduct staining; clean with alcohol and proceed with a fill.
- CTrauma; buff the nail surface and apply a new set of acrylics.
- DFungal infection (Onychomycosis); gently file down the discoloration and reapply acrylic.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Mold (Pseudomonas bacteria); remove the enhancement, clean the nail, and refuse reapplication until cleared.
The greenish-yellow discoloration under a lifted nail enhancement is characteristic of a bacterial infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, often referred to as 'greenies' or 'mold'. This occurs when moisture becomes trapped between the natural nail and the enhancement, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. The appropriate action is to remove the enhancement, thoroughly clean and sanitize the natural nail, and advise the client to seek medical attention if the discoloration persists or worsens. No new enhancement should be applied until the natural nail is completely healthy.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Product staining is unlikely to be greenish-yellow and would not intensify with lifting or moisture; cleaning with alcohol is insufficient for a bacterial infection.
- C. Trauma can cause discoloration (bruising), but not typically a distinct greenish-yellow 'stain,' and applying new acrylic over an infection is contraindicated.
- D. Fungal infections (onychomycosis) are typically thicker, crumbly, and opaque, not usually a distinct greenish-yellow 'stain,' and reapplication is never appropriate with an active infection.
Pseudomonas (Greenies)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacteria that can cause a greenish-yellow discoloration (often called 'greenies' or 'mold') under lifted artificial nails due to moisture entrapment.
- Bacterial infection, not mold
- Greenish-yellow discoloration
- Caused by moisture under lifted enhancements
- Requires removal, cleaning, and refusal of service
Memory trick: Green means 'go see a doc' for Pseudomonas, not 'go for a new mani!'