How to Prevent Nail Fungal Infections
We’ve all experienced the disappointment of looking forward to a manicure only to discover a nail fungus lurking beneath the surface. Nail fungal infections, medically termed onychomycosis, can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. They occur when fungi invade nails, causing discolouration, thickening, and crumbling. As with any infection, the best way to treat nail fungus is to prevent it.
To help you out, Jean Yip Group, a leading beauty salon in Singapore, has compiled these simple yet effective practices to keep nail fungal infections at bay, ensuring your nails stay healthy and fabulous for years to come!
Nail hygiene matters
Taking care of your nails isn’t just about appearances — it’s also about protecting them from troublesome fungal infections. The first step? Keep them clean and dry. Regularly wash your hands and feet with soap and water, making sure to get underneath those nails where pesky dirt and bacteria love to hide. For a deeper clean, enlist the help of a nail brush, especially after tasks like gardening that can leave your nails exposed to all sorts of grime and debris.
Trim regularly
Love flaunting those long, manicured nails? While they add a touch of glamour, they can also play host to unwelcome guests like dirt, moisture, and fungi, creating a breeding ground for infections to flourish. That’s why keeping them trimmed regularly with clean, sharp tools is key.
When it comes to trimming, a straight-across trim helps prevent those painful ingrown nails. Be mindful not to cut them too short, as this can invite trouble like nail damage and infections. After trimming, gently file your nails to smooth any rough edges. Use a fine-grit nail file and avoid aggressive filing, as this can weaken your nails over time.
Avoid sharing personal items
Sharing is caring, but when it comes to personal items like nail clippers, files, and scissors, it’s a whole different story. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can easily transfer from one person to another through shared tools. To prevent this, always use your own manicure and pedicure tools and avoid borrowing or sharing them with others.
If you’re visiting a nail salon for professional nail care, ensure that they follow strict hygiene practices. Ask about their sterilisation procedures for nail tools and foot baths to reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial infections. After all, nothing spoils a good mani-pedi like an unwanted infection!
Learn more: 5 Tips To Care For Your Nails After A Manicure Or Pedicure | Jean Yip Salon Pte Ltd
Wear breathable footwear
Your choice of footwear plays a significant role in the health of your nails on your feet. Consider opting for shoes made from breathable materials like leather or canvas. These materials allow air to circulate around your feet, preventing moisture buildup and creating a less hospitable environment for fungal growth. Conversely, tight or non-breathable shoes can be problematic, especially with prolonged wear. They tend to trap moisture and warmth, creating a perfect setting for fungi to grow. This is particularly important to keep in mind in humid environments like Singapore, where sweat can accumulate more easily.
Keep your nails dry
Moisture is the enemy of healthy nails, so make sure to keep them dry whenever possible. After washing your hands or showering, take the time to thoroughly dry your nails. Use a clean towel and gently pat them dry, focusing on hard-to-reach spaces between your fingers and toes where moisture can linger. Paying attention to these areas reduces the chance of fungal growth due to trapped moisture.
For activities that involve prolonged exposure to water, such as washing dishes, consider wearing waterproof gloves to protect your nails from excessive moisture. Make sure to choose gloves that fit well and are comfortable to wear for extended periods to encourage consistent use and protection for your nails.
Preventing nail fungal infections requires a combination of good hygiene practices, regular nail care, and lifestyle habits that promote nail health. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of fungal infections and confidently flaunt beautifully healthy nails.
Searching for effective relief from nail fungus? At Jean Yip Group, their advanced nail fungus treatment not only cures existing infections but also works proactively to prevent future outbreaks. Don’t wait any longer — schedule your appointment and say goodbye to nail fungus worries today!
