| Fungus or Infection on the toenails or fingernails. Article Written By: Linda F., Esthetician, Elle's Esthetic Studio Nails fungus is the presence of bacteria that permeate the nail base and skin. Nail fungi can be caused by a weak immune system (due to cancer or illness), poor circulation, prolonged use of shoes that hold in moisture, non leather shoes, tight shoes, a banged nail, injuries to the nail, dirty nail instruments, even through common daily living activities such as walking on infected rugs, floors, bathrooms, sharing personal item such as; shoes, clothes and towels even people who frequent public swimming pools, gyms, or shower rooms are more prone to these. As we age we are all prone to these occurring more often due to poor circulation, weakened immunity and so on....... The bacteria/fungi shows up on the nails in different ways such as thick or brittle nails, yellow, white, black nail discoloration; and some of these conditions can be very painful. Some people are simply more prone to becoming infected with fungal infections, often due to a hereditary lack of immunity to the organism. These people may become reinfected easily after successful treatment. Sweaty feet or wet feet also contribute to infection process and contribute to its spread. The fungus prefers an environment that is moist, dark and warm, which is why it affects the toenails much more often than fingernails. To help prevent fungus: - The feet should be kept clean, cool, and dry. - The feet should also be dried well after swimming or bathing. - Leather shoes or sandals that allow the feet to "breathe" should be worn along with cotton socks that absorb sweat. or the use of Gena Lab. Pedi dry lotion AND foot sprays are an excellent product to keep feet dry! Good general health and hygiene help to prevent fungal infections. Take proper care of the nails! Make sure in the shower or bath that you apply soap to your toes and wash them properly this will help to disinfect your nails and keep infections under control. Nails grow slowly on toes especially the big toe, so a new, clearer nail may take up to one year to replace the old nail. Things that may help to get rid of fungus include, Tea tree essential oil applied with a qtip daily to infected nail or area, over the counter drugs and prescription drugs ! Or you may try plain whole white vinegar......... I always recommend to my clients to file down/buff there nail a little before applying the product for better penetration..... Info on Nail ridges click here |
