Toenail Discoloration: Possible Causes, Treatments & Prevention
Toenail Discoloration: Possible Causes, Treatments & Prevention Toenail discoloration is
Identifying and Treating Fingernail Fungus From Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails might be stylish, and for some, they give an instant boost of confidence. With that said, they can also present a number of hidden dangers, one of them being fungal infections. Nail fungus from acrylics isn’t just unsightly; it can be painful, and it can also lead to long-term damage.
Nail fungus from acrylics is more common than you might think, but it is also surrounded by myths and misconceptions. In this guide, we’ll separate fact from fiction, and show you the real early signs to look for, and explain the best way to treat and prevent fungal infection from acrylic nails.
What Causes Nail Fungus In The First Place?
Fungal nail infections, scientifically known as onychomycosis, are normally caused by a group of fungi, known as “dermatophytes”. Nail Fungi like this thrive in
- Moist and warm environments
- Moisture trapped under acrylic or gel nails
- Nail trauma from improper filling or lifting
- Poor hygiene and a lack of tool disinfection at nail salons
- Weak natural nail or immune system issues
Fungus invades the nail bed via the gap between the acrylic layer and the natural nail. When inside, the fungus can multiply, causing a bacterial nail infection or green nail syndrome.
Fungus from acrylics can also take hold if there is a small air pocket between the natural nail and acrylic nail, as this can provide a warm and humid environment in which bacteria thrive.
Can Fungus Grow under Acrylic Nails?
Absolutely. Acrylic nails provide the perfect environment for fungus to grow, especially if the nail wasn’t prepped properly.
If a nail becomes loose or if it lifts slightly, then moisture can seep in, providing the ideal environment for nail fungus. As the acrylic nail obscures the appearance of the natural nail, it often goes unnoticed until it’s more severe.
Note: Not all discoloration is caused by fungus, but treatment still matters.
Symptoms of Nail Fungus From Acrylic Nails
The best treatment for fungus is the one that starts early.
The earlier you identify the fungus, the earlier you can start the treatment.
The early signs of a fungal nail infection might be subtle, but there are some things you can watch out for.
- Dairy like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and bok choy
- Fish like salmon and sardines (with bones)
- Nuts and seeds including almonds and sunflower seeds
- Beans and lentils for plant-based sources
Discoloration
One of the main symptoms would be discoloration. Black toenail fungus is common, and so is white toenail fungus. You might also see green or yellow patches on the nail.
Thickening or Distorted Nail Shape.
You may notice your nails start thickening or in a misshapen form.
Nail Lifting from the Nail Bed
Other signs to watch out for include the nail lifting from the nail bed. This, combined with brittleness, means the fungal infection has advanced, and if not treated, the nail will become thick and misshapen.
Bad odor might also accompany the nail lifting.
Feeling of Pain or Pressure
With a nail infection, you can also expect to have some pain or discomfort when pressure is applied, and a strong odor.
How to Get Rid of Fungus from Acrylic Nails
If you want to learn how to get rid of fingernail fungus from acrylics, you can find some steps below:
Step 1: Take off your Acrylic Nails
Fungus can’t heal if you keep it sealed under the acrylic nails. The best course of action would be for you to take off the acrylic nails. This reduces the warm and sealed environment in which bacteria thrive. You can visit a nail technician to do this, or you can use an acetone soak. Avoid ripping or prying the nail, as this could spread the infection to other parts of the nail.
Note: Do not try to “fill in” infected acrylics.
Step 2: Clean & Dry Your Natural Nail
Use an antiseptic solution or hydrogen peroxide to clean the nail and then dry thoroughly before applying anything else.
Note: Make sure to clean your tools before using them on other nails.
Step 3: Use a Fungus Treatment
Mild infections can be treated with an OTC toe fungus treatment. There are two options you can consider:
Topical:
- Swissker Antifungal Stick
- OTC Terbinafine
Natural Remedies:
- Tea tree oil
- Vinegar soak
Note: Natural remedies will take longer to heal and might only get results in the early stages.
If you have a more severe fungal infection or if you have a more persistent case, then you may need to visit a podiatrist.
Step 4: Keep your Nails Clean and Dry
If you want to speed up your recovery, then you need to keep your nails clean and dry. Using sterile clippers, in conjunction with an antifungal stick, will speed things up a lot for you here. You should avoid covering the nail during the healing process.
Preventing Nail Fungus From Acrylic Nails
Fingernail fungus from acrylic nail treatment is completely avoidable.
Choose a Reputable Salon
Choosing a reputable salon is one of the best ways to prevent fungus. A good salon will have sterile tools and will also clean its equipment on a regular basis. Go to certified nail technicians.
Take a Break
You also need to take a break between treatments, so you can give your nails a chance to breathe between each session. If you have struggled with nail fungus before, then let your nail technician know so they can recommend a more breathable alternative.
Disinfect your Clippers
You should also disinfect clippers and maintain good nail hygiene overall, as this will reduce the chance of nail fungus coming back.
FAQs
Can I Wear Acrylics if I’ve Had Nail Fungus Before?
Absolutely, but you may want to wait between acrylics to give your nails a chance to breathe.
What If I Don’t Treat the Fungus?
If you don’t treat the fungus, then it will get worse over time, and potentially spread to other parts of your nail.
Can I Treat My Nail Fungus at Home?
Yes, home remedies, including tea tree oil or even vinegar soaks, can be good, but they aren’t as effective as OTC treatments.
Adrian Fuentes
Lead Product Engineer
With a strong background in engineering and a passion for creating user-focused solutions, Adrian leads the Swissker development team with precision and innovation. Over the past decade, he has helped design and refine tools that combine cutting-edge technology with everyday practicality. Adrian is dedicated to improving quality of life through well-engineered, safe, and effective solutions, backed by rigorous research and a deep understanding of user needs. When not in the lab, he stays current with emerging trends in personal care, wellness, and health-tech innovation to ensure every product meets the highest standards.
Table of Contents
- 01. Treating Fungus From Acrylic Nails
- 02. Causes Nail Fungus In The First Place?
- 03. Can Fungus Grow under Acrylic Nails?
- 04. Symptoms of Fungus From Acrylic
- 05. Get Rid of Fungus from Acrylic Nails
- 06. Step 1: Take off your Acrylic Nails
- 07. Step 2: Clean & Dry Your Natural Nail
- 08. Step 3: Use a Fungus Treatment
- 09. Step 4: Keep your Nails Clean and Dry
- 10. Preventing Fungus From Acrylic Nails
- 11. FAQ
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