Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can affect both fingernails and, more frequently, toenails. While concealing discolored or thickened nails with acrylics might be tempting, it is generally recommended to avoid applying artificial nails over a fungal infection. Understanding these reasons and proper management strategies for nail fungus is important for nail health.
Risks of Covering Fungus with Acrylics
Applying acrylic nails over an existing fungal infection can significantly worsen the condition. Acrylics create a sealed, warm, and moist environment around the natural nail, which is ideal for fungi to thrive and multiply. This can lead to a more severe and entrenched infection, making it harder to treat effectively.
The infection can also spread beyond the initial nail. The fungus may spread to adjacent nails or even to the surrounding skin, potentially causing athlete’s foot or other skin infections. There is also a risk of spreading the infection to others, particularly if proper sanitation practices are not meticulously followed in a nail salon setting.
An aggravated fungal infection can cause lasting damage to the nail plate and the underlying nail bed. As the fungus proliferates, it can further thicken, distort, and even lift the nail from its bed, leading to discomfort or pain. In severe cases, this can result in permanent disfigurement or loss of the nail. Covering the nail with acrylics also renders topical antifungal treatments largely ineffective, as medication cannot properly penetrate the acrylic and reach the infection site. This delay allows the fungus to become more deeply established, requiring longer and more intensive interventions.
Recognizing Nail Fungus
Identifying nail fungus involves observing changes in nail appearance and texture. A common sign is discoloration, where the nail may turn white, yellow, brown, or even black. This discoloration often starts at the edge of the nail and can spread towards the cuticle.
The affected nail may also become thickened, making it difficult to trim, and can appear chalky or cloudy. Other indicators include brittleness, crumbling edges, or a distorted shape of the nail. The nail might also separate from the nail bed, creating a space underneath. A foul odor can sometimes accompany a fungal nail infection. A professional diagnosis is beneficial, as other nail conditions can present similar symptoms.
Effective Treatments for Nail Fungus
Seeking professional medical advice is a first step for treating nail fungus. A dermatologist or podiatrist can accurately diagnose the infection and create a tailored treatment plan.
Treatment options often include topical antifungal medications, applied directly to the nail. Examples include medicated nail polishes containing ciclopirox or solutions like efinaconazole and tavaborole. These are generally more effective for mild to moderate cases, particularly when the infection has not reached the nail’s growth center.
Oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine, itraconazole, or fluconazole, are often used for more severe or persistent infections. These medications work systemically to clear the fungus, but require several months of treatment and may involve monitoring for potential side effects.
Laser therapy is another option, with various types of lasers used to target and destroy fungal cells by heating the infected nail layers. This method can be suitable for individuals who cannot take oral medications due to other health conditions.
In severe cases, temporary or permanent removal of the infected nail may be considered to allow direct application of antifungal treatments or to facilitate new, healthy nail growth. Patience is necessary, as nails grow slowly, and it can take many months for a healthy, clear nail to fully replace the infected one.
Preventing Nail Fungus Recurrence
Preventing recurrence after successful treatment involves consistent hygiene and careful nail care. Maintaining clean and dry feet is important, as fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Washing feet daily with soap and water and thoroughly drying them, especially between the toes, significantly reduces fungal growth.
Choosing appropriate footwear also helps prevent recurrence. Breathable shoes made from materials like leather or mesh allow better air circulation, minimizing sweat and moisture buildup. Regularly changing socks, particularly moisture-wicking types, helps keep feet dry throughout the day.
Avoiding walking barefoot in public areas such as gyms, pools, and locker rooms is advisable, as these are common sources of fungal exposure. Using shower shoes or flip-flops in these environments provides protection.
Proper nail care, including trimming nails straight across and keeping them short, prevents fungi from accumulating under the nail. Disinfecting nail clippers and other tools after each use is important to prevent reinfection or spread. If considering artificial nails in the future, wait until the natural nail is completely healthy and consider taking breaks from acrylics to allow nails to breathe.