Acrylic nails are a great way to add beauty and length to your fingernails. But sometimes, acrylics can create a dark, moist environment that’s perfect for fungus to grow.
If you’re concerned about a possible nail infection, this article will help you learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of acrylic nails fungus. Pictures will be included to help you determine if you have an infection.
Left untreated, fungus can cause discomfort and damage to your nails. In some cases, complications can arise.
What causes fungal infections under acrylic nails?
Acrylic nails can be beautiful, but they can also create a perfect environment for fungus to grow.
Moisture and trapped environments
The biggest problem is moisture that gets trapped between your natural nail and the acrylic nail. This creates a dark, damp space that’s just right for fungus to thrive. If the acrylic nail isn’t put on correctly, or if it starts to lift up, it can create little pockets where moisture can collect.
If the tools and surfaces used at the salon aren’t properly sterilized, you could be exposed to fungal spores. Sharing nail polish and other tools can also spread infections, highlighting the importance of using a proper nail tool disinfectant.
Common fungal organisms
Dermatophytes, especially Trichophyton rubrum, are a frequent cause of nail fungus infections. Other types of fungi and yeasts can also cause infections, but they’re less common.
Identifying fungal infections: signs and symptoms
Fungal infections under acrylic nails can cause some pretty gross visual changes. The most common sign is discoloration of the nail. It might turn yellow, green, brown, or even white. You might also notice that the nail plate gets thicker.
Other symptoms include:
- The nail becoming brittle or crumbly.
- The nail becoming distorted in shape.
- The nail separating from the nail bed (this is called onycholysis).
- A nasty smell coming from under the acrylic.
- Pain or discomfort, especially if the infection is really bad.
Treatment options for acrylic nail fungus
If you suspect you have a fungal infection under your acrylic nails, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do.
Home remedies
For mild infections, you can try over-the-counter antifungal creams and solutions. You can also soak your nails in a mixture of two parts water and one part vinegar. Vinegar can inhibit fungal growth.
Some people swear by tea tree oil or oregano oil because of their antifungal properties. However, more research is needed to confirm how well they work.
Vicks VapoRub, a common cold remedy, may also help with nail fungus. Some studies suggest it can be effective.
Medical treatments
If home remedies don’t do the trick, it’s time to see a doctor. For more severe infections, prescription antifungal medications are often necessary. These can include oral medications like terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole.
There are also topical prescription antifungals available, such as ciclopirox and efinaconazole.
It’s essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Oral medications can have side effects and require monitoring, so it’s best to get professional advice.
Prevention strategies
If you’re committed to rocking acrylics, here’s how to minimize your chances of developing a fungal infection:
- Practice good nail hygiene: Keep your nails clean and dry, and always dry your hands and feet thoroughly after washing.
- Go to a reputable nail salon: Make sure the salon follows strict hygiene practices and sterilizes their equipment. Don’t share nail polish or tools with anyone.
- Limit your acrylic use: Give your natural nails a break to breathe and recover. Make sure your nail technician is properly trained and uses techniques that minimize damage to your natural nails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does filing down a fungal nail help?
Filing down a fungal nail can help, but it’s not a standalone cure. It thins the nail, allowing topical treatments to penetrate better. However, it’s crucial to file gently and disinfect the file afterwards to prevent spreading the fungus.
Can I still wear acrylic nails with fungus?
Wearing acrylic nails with a fungal infection is generally a bad idea. It traps moisture and creates a dark, warm environment where the fungus thrives, potentially worsening the infection. It’s best to remove the acrylics and treat the fungus first, which you can read more about regarding the risks and solutions of putting acrylic nails over fungus.
Why is my nail turning green under my acrylic?
A green nail under acrylics is often a sign of a bacterial infection, usually caused by Pseudomonas. This bacteria thrives in moist environments created by trapped water between the natural nail and the acrylic. It’s important to remove the acrylic and seek treatment, especially if you notice a blue goo nail fungus.
How to get rid of nail fungus fast from acrylic nails?
Unfortunately, there’s no instant fix for nail fungus, especially after acrylic nail use. Removing the acrylics and using prescription-strength topical or oral antifungal medications is often necessary. Over-the-counter treatments may help but tend to take longer and may be less effective for severe cases.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
While some home remedies, like soaking in diluted vinegar or tea tree oil solutions, are sometimes suggested, there’s no single “magic cup” that will instantly destroy nail fungus. These remedies might offer some benefit in conjunction with other treatments, but they’re not a substitute for professional medical advice or prescribed medications.
In Summary
Fungal infections are a risk when you wear acrylic nails. However, with the right care, you can prevent them and, if you do get one, treat them.
It’s important to catch and treat infections early to keep them from getting worse and causing more damage.
If you think you might have a fungal infection on your nails, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.