There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freshly pedicured feet. But, if you’re dealing with toenail fungus, you might be wondering if you can even have a pedicure, let alone how to give yourself one. Toenail fungus can make your nails look discolored and thick, which can be frustrating if you want to show off your toes.
The good news is that you can still give yourself a pedicure, even with toenail fungus. However, it’s essential to take extra precautions to prevent spreading the infection to other nails or even to other people.
This article will guide you through a safe and hygienic pedicure process, focusing on how to manage toenail fungus while still achieving beautiful-looking feet. We’ll cover everything from preparing your tools to the best way to care for your nails afterward.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that can be caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. Things that increase your risk of toenail fungus include injury to the nail, poor hygiene, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
If you have a toenail fungus, you may notice that the toenail:
- Thickens
- Changes color, usually to yellowish-brown or white
- Becomes brittle
- Distorts in shape
The nail may also separate from the nail bed.
Why hygiene is crucial
Toenail fungus is contagious. You can spread it to other toenails or to other people.
It’s also important to prevent secondary infections. The cracks and openings in the nail make it easier for bacteria to get in.
Precautions and preparation
If you’re giving yourself a pedicure and you have toenail fungus, it’s important to protect yourself and others from infection. Here’s how:
Protect yourself and others
- Always wear gloves during the pedicure. Disposable gloves are ideal to prevent cross-contamination.
- Do your pedicure in a well-ventilated space.
- Don’t share tools or towels with others in your household. It’s important for everyone to have their own hygiene supplies.
Gather tools and supplies
Here’s what you’ll need to give yourself a pedicure:
- Nail clippers
- Nail file
- Cuticle pusher
- Foot soak basin
- Towel
- Cotton pads
- Disposable emery boards (optional)
You’ll also need some antiseptic solutions:
- Rubbing alcohol to disinfect your tools
- Hydrogen peroxide to clean your feet
- Antifungal solution to treat your toenail fungus
You may also want to have these items on hand:
- Foot scrub
- Moisturizer
- Nail polish (but use it with caution)
How to give yourself a pedicure when you have toenail fungus
Getting a pedicure can be a relaxing way to care for your feet, but when you have toenail fungus, you need to be extra careful to avoid spreading the infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to giving yourself a safe and effective pedicure.
Preparing your feet
- Soak your feet in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes. You can add a mild soap or an antifungal solution to the water. Soaking helps soften your nails and skin, making them easier to work with.
- Thoroughly dry your feet with a clean, disposable towel. Pat them dry instead of rubbing to avoid spreading the infection to other areas.
Trimming and filing your nails
- Carefully trim the infected nail straight across. Avoid cutting it too short, which can increase the risk of ingrown toenails or further infection. Use a dedicated nail clipper for the infected nail only. This will prevent cross-contamination and keep the fungus from spreading to your other nails.
- File the edges of the nail to smooth them and prevent ingrown nails. Use a disposable emery board to avoid spreading the fungus.
Cuticle care
- Gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher. Avoid cutting your cuticles, as this can increase the risk of infection.
- If necessary, carefully trim any hangnails with disinfected nippers. Make sure to disinfect the nippers before and after use to prevent the spread of infection.
Exfoliation and moisturizing
- Gently exfoliate your feet with a foot scrub to remove dead skin cells. Pay special attention to rough areas like your heels and soles.
- Rinse your feet thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to your feet and nails. Focus on hydrating the nail bed, as this can help improve the overall health of your nails.
Post-pedicure hygiene and treatment
Once you’ve completed your pedicure, it’s important to follow these steps to prevent the spread of fungus and continue treatment.
Disinfecting Tools and Surfaces
It’s important to thoroughly clean and disinfect all tools you used during your pedicure. A good way to do this is by using rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Let the tools soak for at least 10 minutes.
Dispose of any one-use items like emery boards, cotton pads, and gloves.
Be sure to clean and disinfect the foot soak basin.
Applying Antifungal Treatment
Apply a topical antifungal medication to the affected nail(s) as directed by a doctor or pharmacist, or consider alternative options like Manuka honey for nail fungus. It’s important to apply the treatment consistently, as directed.
Your doctor might prescribe antifungal nail polish or lacquer, such as Loceryl, to treat nail fungus.
Monitoring and Seeking Professional Advice
Keep an eye on the affected nail(s) for any changes or worsening of symptoms. If the infection doesn’t improve or gets worse, talk to a doctor or podiatrist. You may need oral antifungal medication or other treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I scrape out toenail fungus?
While it might seem tempting to scrape out toenail fungus, it’s generally not recommended. This can cause further damage to the nail, increase the risk of infection, and potentially spread the fungus. It’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for proper treatment options.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have some antifungal properties. While it might not completely eradicate the fungus, it can help soften the nail, reduce inflammation, and provide temporary relief from discomfort. However, it’s not a substitute for prescribed antifungal medications.
What kills really bad toenail fungus?
Severe toenail fungus often requires prescription antifungal medications, either topical or oral. Topical treatments are applied directly to the nail, while oral medications work systemically to kill the fungus. A doctor or podiatrist can determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of your infection.
How to manicure toenails with fungus?
When dealing with toenail fungus, it’s crucial to prioritize hygiene. Use disposable or thoroughly sanitized tools. Gently file the thickened areas of the nail to help topical treatments penetrate. Avoid cutting the nail too short, and disinfect your tools after each use to prevent spreading the infection. Consider skipping polish to allow the nail to breathe and heal.
What is the instant cover up for nail fungus?
Nail polish can temporarily conceal toenail fungus, but it’s not a long-term solution. In fact, polish can trap moisture and potentially worsen the infection. If you choose to use polish, opt for breathable formulas and remove it regularly to allow the nail to air out. Remember, addressing the underlying fungal infection is more important than just covering it up.
Conclusion
Giving yourself a pedicure when you have toenail fungus means you have to be extra careful to avoid spreading the infection. Remember that fungus is contagious, so anything that touches your infected toenail can spread the fungus to other nails or other people.
It’s also important to remember that a pedicure is not a cure for toenail fungus. You’ll still need to treat the infection and follow your doctor’s instructions. Good foot care can help prevent future infections. Wear shoes that let your feet breathe, keep your feet dry, and don’t walk barefoot in public places, especially when considering toenail fungus and hot tubs.