Foot odor is a common problem. In fact, it’s so common that most people experience foot odor at some point, and even though it’s nothing to be ashamed of, it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable.
But what about when your feet don’t smell bad… until you clip your toenails? Why do your toenails smell when you cut them?
There are a number of reasons why this might be the case. Here are some of the most common reasons your freshly cut toenails might smell bad, including:
- improper trimming
- fungal infections
- smelly footwear
- debris accumulation
What causes toenail odor?
If you’ve ever wondered why your toenails smell when you cut them, here are some of the things that might be going on.
Improper toenail trimming
When you trim your toenails the wrong way, you can cause an ingrown toenail. When that happens, the risk of infection goes up, and that can lead to odor.
To avoid this, trim your toenails straight across. The corners should line up with your skin. If your nails are thick or hard to cut, talk with a foot health professional.
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis)
Fungal nail infections are a common cause of foot odor. You might have a fungal nail infection if you notice:
- Discoloration (yellow, green, brown, or white)
- Thickening
- Lifting of the nail
- Debris accumulation under the nail
Smelly footwear
Your shoes and socks can definitely play a role in toenail odor. They can harbor bacteria and fungi that transfer odors to your toenails, underscoring the importance of understanding environmental factors affecting fungal growth.
To prevent this, try these tips:
- Use foot antiperspirant to keep feet dry.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks.
- Don’t re-wear dirty socks.
- Spray shoes with antifungal spray.
- Alternate shoes and allow them to air out.
Accumulation of debris
Dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris can build up under and around your toenails. This can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria.
You can avoid this by washing your feet carefully, paying close attention to the areas around the cuticle and nail corners. Keep your nails short, clean, and dry.
Fungal nail infections
If you have smelly feet, you may wonder if you have a fungal infection. One way to tell is to inspect your toenails.
Causes and development
Fungi, especially dermatophytes and non-dermatophytes, are often the cause of nail infections. Athlete’s foot, which is also caused by fungi, can spread from the skin of the foot to the toenails. If you have damaged toenails, you may be at greater risk for fungal infections. For example, runners are prone to toenail damage because of the pressure and friction caused by running long distances.
Types of fungal nail infections
There are several types of onychomycosis, as fungal nail infections are known:
- Distal Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis (DLSO): This is the most common type.
- Superficial Onychomycosis (SO)
- Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis (TDO)
- Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis (PSO)
If you think you have a fungal nail infection, see a doctor for a diagnosis. They will probably want to do a mycology test to confirm the type of fungus you have.
Why treatment is important
Untreated fungal infections can spread and cause other problems, such as secondary bacterial infections like cellulitis. It’s important to see a podiatrist or doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Don’t try to treat it on your own. Treatment should begin only after you’ve spoken to a health professional.
Diagnosis and treatment of fungal nail infections
If you’re concerned about toenail fungus, you’ll want to talk with a podiatrist, who can visually inspect your nails and order lab tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Diagnosis
The lab tests, called mycology tests, can take up to six weeks to complete. You may get an initial report after two weeks, but the final results can take quite a bit longer.
Treatment
If you do have a fungal nail infection, there are several treatment options available, including exploring natural treatments. The approach that’s right for you will depend on the severity of the infection and your overall health.
Treatments include:
- Topical treatments, such as antifungal creams and lacquers
- Systemic treatments, such as oral antifungal medications
- Phototherapy
Unfortunately, even with treatment, fungal nail infections can come back. Once you’ve gotten rid of the infection, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from returning.
Preventing toenail odor and fungal infections
The best way to prevent smelly toenails is to stop the problem before it starts. Here’s how:
- Practice good foot hygiene. Wash your feet every day, and dry them thoroughly. Keep your toenails trimmed short and make sure they’re clean and dry.
- Prevent fungal infections. Treat athlete’s foot right away, and wear sandals or flip-flops in public areas like pools or locker rooms. Wear breathable cotton socks and change them every day. Wash your socks and towels in hot water. Choose shoes made of breathable materials.
- Manage underlying health conditions. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. If you smoke, quit.
- Sanitize your nail clippers and other tools. Always disinfect your tools between uses.
- Consider preventative antifungal treatments. Talk to your doctor about using an antifungal nail lacquer or cream every month to prevent fungal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get rid of white stuff under toenails?
The white stuff under your toenails is often a buildup of keratin debris, dead skin cells, and sometimes, fungal organisms. Regular cleaning with soap and water can help. Use a soft brush to gently scrub under the nails. For persistent buildup, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, consult a podiatrist.
What does an infected toe smell like?
An infected toe typically has a foul, pungent odor, often described as cheesy or decaying. This is due to the bacteria or fungi causing the infection. Other signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and pus drainage. Seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an infection.
How often should you cut your toenails?
Generally, you should cut your toenails every 2-3 weeks, or when they start to become too long. Cutting them straight across, rather than rounding the edges, helps prevent ingrown toenails. Use clean, sharp nail clippers and avoid cutting them too short.
Why do my toenails stink after I cut them?
The odor you notice when cutting your toenails often comes from trapped bacteria and debris beneath the nail. Cutting the nail releases these trapped substances, causing the smell. Proper foot hygiene, including regular washing and thorough drying, can help reduce this odor.
Is it normal for toenails to smell when cut?
It’s relatively common for toenails to have a slight odor when cut, especially if you haven’t cleaned under them recently. However, a strong, foul smell is not normal and could indicate a fungal infection or other underlying issue. If you notice a consistently strong odor, consult a doctor.
To Conclude
As you’ve learned, smelly toenails when you clip them can be caused by a few different things: improper trimming techniques, fungal infections, the shoes you wear, and trapped debris.
Good foot hygiene and preventative measures can go a long way toward keeping your feet healthy and odor-free. Make sure you’re clipping your toenails correctly, keeping your feet clean and dry, and wearing shoes that breathe.
If you’re doing all the right things and still have smelly toenails, especially if they’re accompanied by other symptoms like discoloration or thickening, it’s time to see a podiatrist to make sure you don’t have a fungal infection or other underlying issue.
Taking care of your feet will help you avoid unpleasant odors and keep you comfortable and healthy.