Acrylic nails are a popular way to enhance your natural nails. They’re known for their durability and the smooth, even surface they provide for nail polish and art. Many people enjoy the look and feel of acrylics and rely on them for a polished, put-together appearance.
But what happens when you suspect a fungal infection on your nails? Is it safe to cover it up with acrylics? The short answer is no. Applying acrylic nails over fungus can lead to serious complications and make the infection much worse.
This article will explore why putting acrylic nails over fungus is a bad idea. We’ll cover the potential dangers, how to recognize a nail infection, and what you can do to prevent one. We’ll also discuss how to keep your nails healthy and when to seek professional help if you suspect an infection. Your nail health is important, so let’s dive in!
Understanding nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Painting over a problem doesn’t make it go away, and that’s especially true when it comes to nail fungus.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a very common infection. It can affect your fingernails or your toenails. It’s usually caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds — tiny organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments.
Fungal infections can develop and spread through small cracks in your nail or the skin around your nail.
Signs and symptoms of nail fungus
If you suspect you have nail fungus, and especially if you wear acrylics, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for a diagnosis, to rule out acrylic fungus nails. But here are some common signs to watch for:
- Discoloration of the nail (yellow, white, or brown)
- Thickening of the nail
- Nails that crumble or seem brittle
- A distorted nail shape
- A foul odor coming from the nail
- Pain or discomfort in the affected nail
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should get a diagnosis from a trained health professional.
Why acrylics and nail fungus don’t mix
It’s really not a good idea to put acrylic nails over nail fungus. Here’s why:
Trapping moisture and creating a breeding ground
Acrylic nails create a sealed environment that traps moisture. When you have nail fungus, the last thing you want to do is provide it with a warm, damp place to grow. Acrylics prevent the nail from “breathing,” which weakens the natural nail and makes it more vulnerable to infection.
Masking the infection and delaying treatment
Acrylics can cover up the visible signs of a nail infection. You might not notice the discoloration or other symptoms because they’re hidden under the acrylic. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, which is bad because untreated nail infections can worsen and spread to other nails or skin. In severe cases, you might need aggressive treatment, like having the nail removed.
Potential for further damage
Removing acrylic nails can also damage infected nails. The filing and buffing needed to remove the acrylic can spread the infection, and the harsh chemicals used in the removal process can irritate the skin around the nail. All of this can make the infection even harder to treat.
Risks of applying acrylics over infected nails
While covering up a nail fungus with acrylics might seem like a quick fix, it can actually make the problem much worse. Here’s why:
Worsening the existing infection
Acrylic nails create an environment where fungus can thrive. The space under the acrylic is often dark, moist, and lacks oxygen. This anaerobic environment is ideal for some types of fungi, allowing them to grow faster and become more resistant to treatment.
Treating the infection also becomes more difficult. Topical medications, like creams and polishes, including castor oil, may not be able to penetrate the acrylic layer effectively to reach the infected nail bed. You might need to take oral medications, which can have side effects.
Spreading the infection
Putting acrylics on an infected nail increases the risk of spreading the infection to your other nails. When you file an infected nail, you can easily transfer fungal spores to other nails. Also, if your nail tools aren’t properly sanitized, they can spread the infection to healthy nails.
It’s not just your nails that are at risk. You can also spread the infection to other people. Sharing nail tools or going to salons that don’t follow strict hygiene practices can lead to the spread of nail fungus, especially to people with weakened immune systems.
How to know if you should skip the acrylics
The most important thing to know is that you shouldn’t put acrylics on nails with fungus. So how do you know if you have a nail fungus?
Visual inspection
Before you go to get acrylics, take a close look at your nails. Some things to look for are:
- Discoloration (nails that aren’t their usual color)
- Thickening of the nail
- Crumbling or cracking
- Lifting or separation of the nail from the nail bed
If you’re not sure what you’re seeing, it’s always best to get a professional opinion. A dermatologist or podiatrist can diagnose nail fungus and recommend the best course of action.
Other signs and symptoms
Here are some other things to watch out for:
- Pain, swelling, or redness around the nail (these could also indicate a bacterial infection, so see a doctor right away)
- Brittle or easily broken nails (this isn’t always a sign of fungus, but it can mean your nails aren’t healthy)
Treating nail fungus before acrylic application
If you suspect you have nail fungus, it’s really important to treat it before you even think about getting acrylic nails.
Consulting a medical professional
The best thing to do is to see a dermatologist or podiatrist. They can figure out exactly what’s going on with your nail and recommend the best way to treat it.
To diagnose a fungal infection, doctors often send nail clippings or scrapings to a lab for analysis. That way, they can see what kind of fungus is causing the problem.
Treatment options
There are several ways to treat nail fungus:
- Topical antifungal medications: You put these directly on the nail and the skin around it. They usually work best for mild to moderate infections.
- Oral antifungal medications: You take these by mouth, and they work throughout your whole body. They’re stronger and can work better for severe infections, but they can also have side effects.
- Laser therapy and other advanced treatments: Laser therapy can target the fungus without hurting the surrounding tissue. For really bad infections, sometimes doctors have to remove the nail completely.
Safe Nail Care Practices and Prevention
Whether you wear acrylic nails or not, good nail care is essential for healthy hands and feet. If you’re prone to nail fungus, here are some tips to help you avoid it:
Maintaining Good Nail Hygiene
It’s important to keep your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands and feet regularly with soap and water, and be sure to dry thoroughly, especially between your toes where moisture can linger and create a breeding ground for fungus.
Also, trim your nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Always use clean and sharp nail clippers to prevent injury and infection.
Choosing a Reputable Nail Salon
If you go to a salon for manicures and pedicures, take a close look at how clean it is and what hygiene practices they follow. Are the tools clean and sterilized? Do technicians wash their hands between clients? If you don’t like what you see, find another salon.
You can also bring your own manicure and pedicure tools. Be sure to clean and sterilize them thoroughly after each use.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Fungal Infections
To keep fungus away from your nails, wear breathable shoes and socks. Choose shoes made of materials like leather or canvas that allow air to circulate. Wear socks made of cotton or wool to absorb moisture.
It’s also a good idea to avoid walking barefoot in public places. Locker rooms, gyms, and public pools are common breeding grounds for fungi. Wear flip-flops or sandals to protect your feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put acrylic over a fungus nail?
Absolutely not! Covering nail fungus with acrylic is a recipe for disaster. The acrylic creates a dark, moist environment, which is exactly what fungus thrives on. You’ll only make the infection worse, potentially leading to more severe problems and making treatment far more difficult.
Can I file off nail fungus?
Filing the surface of the infected nail might remove some of the fungus-infected material, but it won’t eliminate the infection. It’s more likely to spread the fungus to other nails or tools if you’re not careful. Think of it like trying to weed a garden by just clipping the tops off – the roots are still there!
What happens if you have nail fungus for too long?
Ignoring nail fungus can lead to a thicker, more disfigured nail that’s painful and difficult to treat. It can also spread to other nails, the surrounding skin, and even other people. In severe cases, it can cause permanent damage to the nail bed.
Is it good to cut off nail fungus?
While trimming the infected nail to remove excess length can help, cutting it off completely is generally not recommended and can be painful. It won’t cure the fungus. See a doctor or podiatrist for proper treatment and guidance on nail care.
Can I paint my nails if I have fungus?
It’s best to avoid painting your nails if you have a fungal infection, including using gel polish. Nail polish can trap moisture and prevent the nail from “breathing,” creating an environment where the fungus can flourish. Plus, you risk spreading the infection to your nail polish and brushes.
Conclusion
It’s important to deal with nail fungus before you put acrylics on your nails. Putting acrylics over a fungal infection is bad for your nails. It can make the infection worse, take longer to treat, and spread the fungus to other nails.
Taking good care of your nails will pay off in the long run. Healthy nails are a sign of overall good health, and keeping your nails healthy will keep you from getting infections and help you keep your hands looking nice.
If you’re worried about your nails, talk to a dermatologist or podiatrist. Getting diagnosed and treated early can keep problems from getting worse and help you keep your nails healthy and beautiful.