Nail Polish Tips

Does Wearing Nail Polish Make Toenail Fungus Worse?

Written by Tara

Nail polish will not treat your nail fungus, but some patients use it to help disguise unsightly nails.

Polish traps in moisture from the nailbed (tissue below the toenail). Because fungi thrive in moist environments, wearing nail polish may make a fungal infection worse.

Generally Can nail polish prevent fungus? Some podiatrists say daniPro, a nail polish with a special ingredient, can help prevent a fungal infection from recurring after treatment. Undecylenic acid does kill the types of fungus that infect nails—but the uncertainty lies in whether the polish will penetrate the hard surface of the nail, says Bryan C.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Does nail polish cause nail fungus?

The danger with keeping your nail polish on too long is that the pigment in the nail polish can soak into the top few layers of the nail and dry it out, Dr. Rowland says. When that happens, fungus, yeast, bacteria, mold and mildew can develop underneath the nail plate, which can lead to long-term problems.

How do I stop my toenails from getting fungus?

Prevention

  1. Wash your hands and feet regularly.
  2. Trim nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas.
  3. Wear sweat-absorbing socks or change your socks throughout the day.
  4. Choose shoes made of materials that breathe.
  5. Discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders.

What kills toenail fungus fast?

Medications

  • Oral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice because they clear the infection more quickly than do topical drugs.
  • Medicated nail polish. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac).
  • Medicated nail cream.

Can you file away toenail fungus?

Sometimes it’s possible to treat your toenail fungus at home. You can try: Over the counter antifungal creams or ointments. File or cut off any white markings on your nails.

Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?

Wearing socks to bed can help prevent transmission of the fungus. Even if you avoid contact, your partner can still develop athlete’s foot if you walk around the house barefoot.

How long does toenail fungus live in socks?

Your spouse is also at risk when sharing bed sheets, socks and shoes. As fungal spores can stay dormant but viable for up to three months in their favoured environments, your family may still remain vulnerable long after you’ve started covering up your feet or taking other protective measures.

How long does it take toenail fungus to go away?

Usually three months of treatment cures a toenail fungal infection. Antifungal pills, however, can cause side effects. Your dermatologist will watch you closely. You’ll also need to have blood tests every month to check for problems.

Why do I keep getting toenail fungus?

There are several risk factors for developing nail fungus: tight shoes; damaged nails; walking barefoot in moist areas like swimming pools, saunas, and public showers; poor blood circulation in your legs; a weakened immune system; and other skin conditions, such as psoriasis.

What is the root cause of toenail fungus?

The root cause of nail fungus are microscopic organisms that cause an overgrowth of fungi. This can occur in, under, or on the nail. Your toenails more often develop fungus because they are usually inside your shoes, where the warm environment allows fungi to thrive.

How long should you keep nail polish on your toes?

If you paint your toenails, it is best to leave the paint on until it’s time for it to be removed (around two to three weeks in most cases), and then allow an equal amount of time for your toenails to be left natural. This includes not putting on a clear top coat of polish.

Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have toenail fungus?

Disinfect Your Shoes Whatever shoes you wore while having toenail fungus may still contain traces of it. Certain types of fungus can be quite hardy and remain around for some time, increasing the risk of re-infection. This does not necessarily mean you have to throw your shoes out.

What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?

In medical terms this is called onychomycosis or tinea unguium, says Batra. The fungal infection breaks down the keratin in the nail to form a white or yellow chalky substance under the nail plate. As keratin debris spreads under the nail, the nail plate typically becomes lifted up off of the nail bed.

How do I know if my toenail fungus is dying?

Top 5 signs your toenail fungus has gone nuclear

  1. Nail color changes. If your nail turns white and chalky or yellow, it’s not a good sign.
  2. Nail position changes. If your nail starts to curl downward or upward, it’s time to be concerned.
  3. Nail texture changes.
  4. Nail smell changes.
  5. Nail sensation changes.

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About the author

Tara

I am Tara, and I am addicted to nail polishes and other beauty related things!:) Join me on my ride to paradise!