What is a common cause of nail discoloration?

Nail discoloration can often be attributed to staining from nail polish or underlying health issues. Using dark nail polish can lead to staining if the polish is not properly removed, particularly if it is left on for an extended period. Additionally, various health conditions such as fungal infections, heart disease, or nutritional deficiencies can also result in changes to the color of the nails, signaling an internal issue.

While using acrylic nails can sometimes lead to discoloration if not applied or maintained properly, it is not as common a cause as staining from nail products or health problems. Improper filing techniques can affect the shape and integrity of the nail, but they do not typically contribute to discoloration. Lastly, exposure to water generally does not change the color of nails directly, though excessive moisture can lead to other conditions that might affect nail health indirectly. Therefore, staining from products and health-related issues remain the most frequent causes of nail discoloration.