Pedicures, fungus, and sanitation

Understanding Nail Fungus: What You Need to Know

What Causes Nail Fungus?

We often think nail fungus only happens at nail salons, but there are many ways we can encounter it. Nail fungus doesn't just appear out of nowhere - it needs the perfect conditions to start growing. Nail fungus can show up in different colors, textures, and nail thickness. Certain factors can increase the chances of getting nail fungus, creating the perfect storm for it to thrive.

Factors that can lead to nail fungus include:

· Circulation

· Heavy perspiration

· Working conditions (moist feet and socks that don't allow for ventilation)

· Walking in dirt

What is Onychomycosis?

The term "onychomycosis" comes from the Greek words "onyx" meaning nail and "mykes" meaning fungus. It's used to describe a fungal infection of one or more nail units, which can be caused by different types of fungi. Toenails are more susceptible to this disease than fingernails due to the pressure from the body and the closed nature of footwear. At first, onychomycosis may not cause any symptoms, but as it progresses, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and other issues. (Baswan et al., 2017)

 Types of Nail Fungus

There are different fungi associated with onychomycosis, including dermatophytes, non-dermatophytic molds, and yeast. Dermatophytes are the main culprits, causing most toenail infections and half of fingernail infections.

Types of Nail Fungus include:

Superficial Onychomycosis - caused by dermatophytes, with yellowish-white spots on the nail plate

Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis - caused by dermatophytes, with discoloration near the cuticle. It penetrates the newly formed nail plate migrating distally resulting in destruction of the nail plate.

Distal Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis (DLSO) - The infecting fungi migrate proximally through the underlying nail matrix, causing inflammation and thickening of the nail.

Factors Affecting Onychomycosis

Age, climate, occupation, and other factors can determine the prevalence of onychomycosis. Poor circulation, smoking, diabetes, nail trauma, and other conditions can increase the risk of developing nail fungus.

Treating Nail Fungus

While nail technicians can't diagnose or treat nail fungus like a doctor, they can help improve the appearance of thick, discolored nails. Regular visits for nail care can help monitor and address any fungal issues. It's important to treat clients with dignity and respect when dealing with nail problems.

Returning for nail care every 4-6 weeks, and not waiting longer than 8 weeks, can help maintain healthy feet and nails. Regular visits allow for inspection, nail trimming, callus removal, and addressing any other concerns.

 Keeping Your Feet Safe at the Nail Salon

A Nail Salon Must Follow the Sanitation Code: 820 IAC 3-1-6 Disinfectants(b) All implements that have come in contact with blood or body fluids shall be disinfected by complete immersion in an EPA registered bactericide, viricide, fungicide, and tuberculocidal disinfectant that is mixed and used according to the manufacturer's directions.

When you go to a nail salon, it's important to make sure they are following the sanitation code. According to the code, all implements that encounter your skin or body fluids must be disinfected properly. This means they should be immersed in a disinfectant that kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, and tuberculosis germs, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Observing the Pedicure Station

Have you ever wondered how a pedicure station is sanitized? While it's important to ask if implements are sanitized, it's also crucial to see if the nail technician is taking proper care of the station. The nail technician should be observing your feet and making sure they don't work on areas with contagious conditions like athlete foot or plantar warts. These can easily spread to other people if not handled correctly.

Sanitization Methods

Some salons may use different methods to sanitize their pedicure stations. They might spray the tub, wipe it down, and start again. Others may fill the tub with water and bleach, run it for 10 minutes, and then start again.  Most tubs are jetless spas now. I take apart and clean after every client. This ensures no germs or bacteria are left behind, keeping your feet safe and clean.

 In closing, find a nail technician that will keep your feet safe.

 Best,

 Trina