Learn how to prevent toe nail fungus.
According to a study from The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, toenail fungus infections affect nearly 14 percent of the U.S. population. Common symptoms of toenail fungus include yellow or brown discoloration, as well as, lifting of the nail from the nail bed. Your nail may also turn white, its surface may feel soft or powdery, or the nail could split or crumble. If your nail changes in any way, see a dermatologist right away. While many people suffer from nail fungus, there are a few precautions you can take to prevent the development of nail fungus.
Trim Your Nails
When it comes to preventing toenail fungus, make sure you are trimming your nails regularly. Cut your nails straight across to prevent debris from building up and avoid ingrown toenails. Make sure you are sanitizing and cleaning your clippers or scissors before trimming your nails. Avoid sharing your nail clippers with others to prevent the spread of nail fungus.
Breathable and Properly Fitted Footwear
One of the most important ways to prevent developing toenail fungus is to wear breathable and properly fitted footwear. Make sure your toenails are not touching the top of your shoes and that you are alternating the shoes you wear. Fungus thrives in warm, dark areas, so you want to avoid wearing tight shoes with socks. Sprinkling antifungal powder in your shoes may also help prevent the growth of fungus in your shoes. Wear socks that are breathable and well-fitted, and change your socks whenever they get damp or sweaty..
Disinfect and Wash
It is important that you are disinfecting and cleaning your shower and shoes on a regular basis. Since you step in your shower barefoot on a daily basis, disinfect it with a bleach spray regularly. Make sure you are washing and thoroughly drying your feet well, especially after using a public facility. It is critical that you are not using a public shower or facility barefoot. Always wear shower shoes or sandals to avoid catching nail fungus or athlete’s foot.
SCS CAN MEET ALL OF YOUR GENERAL AND COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY NEEDS
Skin Care Specialty Physicians has been serving the residents of the greater Baltimore area for over ten years. From skin cancer screenings to treatments for hair loss, eczema, acne, and more, we treat conditions affecting your skin, hair, and nails. We diagnose a wide range of skin conditions each day and work with you to select treatment options that best fit you and your skin. We also offer variety of cosmetic treatments and procedures, ranging from botox to microneedling, to fit you and your aesthetic goals. If you are interested in any of our services, contact us at 410.252.9090. You can also follow SCS Physicians on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Linkedin and Pinterest.