Onychomycosis, commonly known as nail fungus, is a frequent condition that causes the nail to become discolored, brittle, and thickened. While acrylic nails offer a polished, extended appearance, they significantly increase the risk of infection. The mechanical bond of the artificial nail creates a unique environment, making diligent hygiene and maintenance necessary for preserving the health of the natural nail underneath. Understanding the causes and implementing focused strategies can help ensure your nail enhancements do not compromise your underlying nail health.
Why Acrylic Nails Increase Fungal Risk
Fungi thrive in environments characterized by warmth, darkness, and moisture, an ideal habitat that forms readily beneath an acrylic overlay. The primary risk factor occurs when the acrylic separates from the natural nail plate, a phenomenon known as lifting. This lifting creates a small, sealed pocket between the artificial nail and the natural nail where water and debris can become trapped.
This small, humid space becomes a breeding ground for fungal species. Trauma to the acrylic, such as a hard bump or impact, can initiate this separation, breaking the seal and allowing moisture to seep in. The difficulty of thoroughly drying the natural nail under the impermeable acrylic layer contributes to this persistently moist condition, accelerating microbial growth.
Essential Preparation Before Application
Prevention begins before the acrylic application, focusing on the health and cleanliness of the natural nail bed. The technician must ensure the natural nail plate is completely clean and dry before the application process begins. This involves meticulous removal of any surface oils, debris, or moisture using a specific nail dehydrator product.
Proper tool sanitization is imperative to prevent the introduction of fungal spores from contaminated equipment, such as shared files or buffers. Before application, the nail should be inspected for any existing signs of damage, trauma, or subtle discoloration, indicating a pre-existing issue that should not be covered. Applying a high-quality primer or bonding agent immediately afterward is necessary to create a strong, sealed connection between the natural nail and the acrylic material. This strong adhesion minimizes the likelihood of future lifting, which is the direct precursor to fungal invasion.
Daily Care and Maintenance Practices
Maintaining a dry environment is the most important daily practice for preventing fungal growth beneath acrylics. After washing hands, showering, or having any prolonged exposure to water, it is important to dry the entire nail unit thoroughly. This drying process should include pressing a clean towel gently around the edges of the acrylic and the cuticle area to absorb any residual moisture.
If hands have been submerged for an extended period, such as after doing dishes or swimming, a hair dryer set to a cool temperature can be used briefly to ensure the area beneath the free edge is completely dry. The wearer should wear gloves when performing tasks that involve prolonged water exposure or the use of cleaning chemicals. Water can weaken the adhesive bond over time, increasing the risk of lifting and moisture infiltration.
The integrity of the acrylic seal must be upheld through timely professional fills, typically scheduled every two to three weeks. Waiting too long allows the natural nail growth to push the acrylic further up the nail plate, increasing the stress point and making lifting more likely. If any small areas of lifting are noticed, resist the urge to pick or glue the area down yourself, as this can force debris deeper into the pocket. Applying a commercial antifungal oil or spray around the cuticle and the underside of the free edge can also provide a chemical barrier against opportunistic fungi.
Identifying Infection and Safe Removal
Recognizing the earliest signs of a fungal infection is necessary for prompt and effective treatment. Visual cues include discoloration of the natural nail, which may appear as yellow, green, or brown patches underneath the acrylic. Green discoloration is often associated with a bacterial infection, but it still signals a compromised seal that requires attention.
The natural nail may also begin to thicken, become brittle, or separate from the nail bed. A foul or musty odor emanating from the nail is another indication that a microbial issue is present beneath the enhancement. If any of these signs are suspected, the acrylic nail should be removed immediately by a trained professional.
Do not attempt to remove the acrylic at home, as forceful removal can severely damage the weakened natural nail and surrounding tissue. After removal, covering the infected nail with a new acrylic or polish should be avoided, as this traps the infection and hinders any topical treatment. A visit to a healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist, is recommended for a definitive diagnosis and the prescription of appropriate topical or oral antifungal medications.