Close-up of two bare feet on wood floor; one foot with red nail polish and the other with natural nails, showing a contrast in toenail appearance and health.

Nail Discoloration: What Yellow or Thick Toenails Might Be Telling You

September 9, 2025

The other day I was catching up with a couple of friends on a sunny patio: shoes off, feet out, soaking up the summer. Since I work in the world of foot care, it wasn’t long before we started talking feet. Specifically: toenails. Or more precisely, toenails that don’t look quite right.

One of my friends mentioned their nail tech pointed out some nail discoloration on their big toe. Another noticed a strange patch on a fingernail — they thought it was avocado from their sushi dinner the night before.

Spoiler alert: it wasn’t avocado.

What Do Most People Do When This Happens?

If you’ve ever noticed your nails looking yellowed, thickened, or just… off, you’re not alone. And like my friend, many of us instinctively reach for nail polish to cover it up. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

But sometimes, nail discoloration can be a sign that your nails need a little extra attention. It could be staining from polish, dryness, damage from gels, or something deeper like an imbalance in the nail environment.

That doesn’t mean it’s time to panic — but it is a good time to start supporting healthier-looking nails from the outside in.

How Common Is Nail Discoloration?

Here’s what surprised my friends: visible changes in the nails often associated with onychomycosis— especially toenails — are incredibly common. In fact, studies show that up to 1 in 10 people have nail concerns related to discoloration, thickness, or brittleness. And those numbers jump even higher in adults over 60.

For many people, it starts subtly. Yellow toenails. A line or a white spot. A change in texture. And while not all nail changes are cause for concern, they’re definitely a sign your nails could use some TLC.

So… What Should You Do About It?

If your nails aren’t looking their best — or you’re noticing discoloration you’ve never seen before — here are a few ways to start giving them the care they deserve:

1. Ease up on polish and artificial nails.

Nails need time to breathe and recover. Constantly covering up discoloration with polish can sometimes make it worse.

2. Keep your feet (and hands) clean and dry.

Moisture buildup around the nail area can impact nail appearance. After showers, dry thoroughly — especially between the toes.

3. Sanitize your shoes and tools.

Sometimes it’s not just your nails that need a refresh. Antimicrobial sprays can help keep shoes and nail tools in top shape.

4. Use products that support nail health and appearance.

This is where our favorite sidekick comes in: the Footlogix Nail Tincture Spray with Spiraleen®.

Let’s Talk Nail Tincture: Spiraleen®, and Why It’s a Game Changer

Footlogix’s Nail Tincture Spray is designed to support the appearance of discolored or damaged nails, with a formula powered by Spiraleen®, an exclusive ingredient derived from microalgae.

✨ Here’s what makes it special:

Light, fast-drying spray: no mess, no greasy residue
Easy to apply: perfect for toes or fingers
Spiraleen® technology: formulated to support the health of the nail and surrounding skin
Used and recommended by foot care professionals worldwide

While this isn’t a treatment or cure, it’s an excellent cosmetic option for those looking to improve the cosmetic appearance of their nails and feel more confident showing them off.

What Foot Confidence Really Means

Whether it’s you, a partner, or your best friend — chances are someone in your life is quietly hiding their feet or nails. Sometimes it’s out of embarrassment. Other times, it’s just that they don’t know what to do next.

But confidence starts with care.

So if you're noticing something off with your nails, even if it’s just a faint discoloration or a little roughness, take it as a sign. A sign that your feet (and your confidence) deserve some attention.

Start with small steps. Use products that make it easy. And remember: being foot confident doesn’t mean having perfect feet, it means taking care of them, and showing up anyway.