Use a soft brush to scrub nails gently with a whitening toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide, Dr. Ian suggests. If that doesn't work, mix three to four tablespoons hydrogen peroxide with one half cup warm water in a bowl, stirring well. Soak nails for two minutes, and then scrub.
If you suspect your nail polish is the culprit of your yellow toenails, make sure you have removed all polish with acetone cleaner. You may need to buff the nail lightly to work out the coloring. Soaking your nails in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide can add to the whitening process.
For most people, the cause of yellow toenails will be fungal infection or overuse of nail polish. In the case of excessive nail polish use, ceasing to use nail polish for at least a week should allow the nail to return to normal.
Apply a baking soda paste - Mix two teaspoons of baking soda with warm water. Apply the paste to the tops and undersides of your nails. Let the mixture sit for at least 5 minutes. Rinse your nails - If they're still stained, apply another coat of the baking soda paste.
When toenails turn yellow, a fungus is usually to blame. This type of fungal infection is so common that you might not even need to see a doctor for treatment. Try an over-the-counter antifungal cream. If your nail is yellow and thick, gently file down the surface so that the drug can reach deeper layers.
Vinegar is an antifungal ingredient that can be mixed with water to create a foot soak. It's acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection to other toes. Try two parts vinegar to one part warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily.
Keratin granulation
If you remove your nail polish only to find that part of your nail is white and dry underneath, you may have this common condition. It's caused by wearing toenail polish for too long. If you have this, it's best to let your nails heal for a while.
A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus. To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.
If you develop toenail fungus, you can treat the infection with an antifungal cream or an oral medication. For other causes of toenail discoloration, make sure your feet are well protected and avoid walking barefoot to prevent an injury or infection.