Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common problem. It’s a fungal infection that often takes hold in toenails.
A common question people have is whether nail polish can cause or spread nail fungus. The short answer is that nail polish itself doesn’t directly spread the fungus. However, it can create an environment where fungus thrives. Nail polish makes nails less breathable, and the chemicals in some formulas can make nails brittle and more susceptible to infection.
This article will help you understand the connection between nail polish, your nail care habits, and the development and spread of nail fungus. You’ll also find practical advice on prevention and treatment, so you can keep your feet healthy and fungus-free, even if you love wearing nail polish.
Understanding nail fungus
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that can affect your fingernails or toenails.
Different kinds of fungi cause it. The most common are dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
If you have nail fungus, you might notice that your nails:
- are discolored
- have gotten thicker
- seem brittle or crumbly
- are separating from the nail bed
How does nail fungus develop and spread?
Fungus loves moist, dark, and warm environments, like the inside of your shoes and socks.
You can pick up a fungus in public showers, swimming pools, and from shared personal items, like nail clippers.
Nail fungus is contagious. That means that it can spread from nail to nail, or even to other parts of your body, like your skin, groin, or scalp.
If you have athlete’s foot, you need to treat it to keep it from spreading to your toenails.
Does nail polish cause nail fungus?
Nail polish can contribute to nail fungus because it changes the environment under your toenail.
Here’s how nail polish may play a role in nail fungus:
- Nail polish may trap moisture and make your nails less breathable.
- Nail polish and harsh nail polish removers can weaken nails, making them more prone to infection.
- Darker nail polish colors absorb more heat, which may create a warmer environment for fungal growth.
Think of it this way: If you wear the same pair of sweaty socks every day without washing them, you’re more likely to get a foot fungus than someone who wears fresh socks. Nail polish can create a similar damp, dark, and warm environment under the nail.
Myths about nail polish and nail fungus
Although nail polish can play a role in nail fungus, it’s important to know that nail polish itself is not infectious.
Also, proper hygiene practices are more important than avoiding nail polish altogether.
Nail polish best practices
If you enjoy wearing nail polish and want to minimize your risk of nail fungus, try these tips:
- Don’t wear nail polish all the time.
- Consider using breathable nail polish formulas that allow air and moisture to pass through.
- Give your nails a break between nail polish applications so they can air out.
Nail care tools and salon hygiene
If you’re concerned about getting a nail infection, you’re right to pay attention to hygiene at the salon and at home.
Nail care tools as vectors for fungus
Fungus can easily spread from person to person when people share nail clippers, files, and other tools. It can even spread if you share nail polish bottles. It’s important to sterilize tools and implement other practices to prevent fungus from spreading.
If you have an infected nail, use separate tools and separate bottles of polish on that nail than you use on your healthy nails. You don’t want to cross-contaminate!
Navigating nail salons safely
If you get your nails done at a salon, do a little research to make sure the salon follows strict hygiene protocols. Check to see how they sterilize their tools between clients. Ask if they use single-use files and buffers.
One tip is to schedule your appointments earlier in the day, when it’s more likely that the tools are freshly sterilized.
At-home nail care best practices
When you do your nails at home, it’s important to clean and disinfect your nail care tools after each use. Sterilizing your tools is a great way to prevent fungus from spreading.
When you trim your nails, be careful not to cut them too short. Cutting nails too short can lead to ingrown toenails and infections that could spread the fungus.
Finally, maintain a personal set of nail care tools for yourself and don’t share them with anyone else.
Treatment Options for Nail Fungus
Nail fungus can be stubborn, but there are several treatment options available.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
For mild infections, you might try topical antifungal creams and ointments. However, keep in mind that OTC treatments often don’t work well for more severe cases.
Prescription Treatments
If OTC treatments don’t cut it, your doctor might prescribe:
- Topical medications: One common prescription is ciclopirox nail lacquer, a special nail polish. But topical treatments can take up to a year to fully work, and they’re generally not as effective as oral medications. Studies have shown that ciclopirox nail polish only clears up the infection in about 30% of users after a year.
- Oral medications: Terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole are common oral antifungals that come in pill form. These are more effective but can have more side effects. Terbinafine has been shown to be effective in about 76% of users after three months, while itraconazole clears the infection in about 43% of users after three months.
Oral medications can have side effects and interact with other drugs you’re taking, so it’s important to discuss these risks with your doctor. Also, remember that even with oral medications, treatment can take several months.
Alternative and Home Remedies
Some people try alternative and home remedies, such as:
- Tea tree oil: Some studies suggest tea tree oil has antifungal properties, but more research is needed.
- Vinegar soaks: Soaking your feet in vinegar may help create an environment that’s not friendly to fungal growth.
Unfortunately, there’s not much scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of most home remedies.
Professional Intervention
For persistent or severe nail fungus, it’s best to consult a podiatrist. A podiatrist can properly diagnose the infection and recommend the best treatment plan.
Other interventions a podiatrist may recommend include:
- Debridement: Removing infected nail tissue can improve the effectiveness of other treatments.
- Laser therapy: This newer treatment targets the fungus with laser light.
Prevention is key
The best way to deal with foot fungus is to avoid getting it in the first place. Here are some tips to help you keep your feet healthy and fungus-free:
- Practice good foot hygiene: Wash your feet every day with soap and water, and dry them completely, especially between your toes.
- Wear breathable shoes and socks: Avoid shoes that trap moisture and choose socks made from breathable materials like cotton or wool.
- Use antifungal powders or sprays: If you’re prone to fungal infections, use antifungal powders or sprays on your feet and in your shoes.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places: Wear sandals or shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools.
- Don’t share personal items: Avoid sharing towels, socks, and shoes with others.
- Inspect your nails regularly: Look for early signs of infection, such as discoloration, thickening, or crumbling, including white spots on toenails after polish, and seek treatment promptly if you notice anything unusual.
- Boost your immune system: A strong immune system can help you fight off infections. Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress to keep your immune system in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you cut your toenails if you have fungus?
Yes, keeping your toenails trimmed is important when you have a fungal infection. Shorter nails can help prevent the fungus from spreading and make it easier to apply topical treatments. Just be sure to disinfect your nail clippers after each use to avoid re-infection or spreading the fungus to other nails.
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet for quickly eliminating nail fungus. Treatment often requires patience and consistency. Over-the-counter antifungal medications can be tried, but prescription oral or topical treatments from a doctor are often more effective for stubborn infections. Laser therapy is also an option.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While not a scientifically proven treatment, some people report success using Vicks VapoRub for nail fungus. It’s thought that the camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol in Vicks may have antifungal properties that can inhibit fungal growth. However, it’s generally considered a complementary, not a primary, treatment.
Should I remove nail polish if I have toenail fungus?
Absolutely! Nail polish can trap moisture and create a dark, humid environment that encourages fungal growth. Removing nail polish allows the affected nail to breathe and makes topical treatments more effective. It’s best to avoid wearing nail polish until the infection clears up.
Should you scrape out toenail fungus?
It’s generally not recommended to aggressively scrape out toenail fungus yourself. You could potentially injure the nail bed or introduce bacteria, leading to a secondary infection. A podiatrist can safely debride (remove) thickened or infected parts of the nail if necessary, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
To Conclude
While nail polish might trap moisture and create a welcoming environment for foot fungus, it doesn’t cause the infection directly.
Foot fungus is contagious, so it’s important to practice good hygiene and take care of your nails. If you think you have a fungal infection, get it treated as soon as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns about foot fungus, reach out to a healthcare professional for advice and treatment options that are right for you.
You can enjoy nail polish and still have healthy nails if you take care of your feet and nails.