How to Care for Fingernail Fungus

Fungal infections are responsible for approximately half of all nail disorders, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. They occur when microscopic organisms that normally live harmlessly on skin and nail tissue multiply, resulting in visible changes such as thickening and discoloration of the nail bed. Poor hygiene, minor skin or nail injuries, prolonged moist skin and poor immune system function can increase the risk of nail infections. With proper hygiene, some fungal nail infections clear up without treatment, as diseased tissue is replaced by new, non-infected nails.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Nailbrush
• Towel
• Manicure scissors or clippers
• Nail file
• Vinegar and warm water
• Prescription anti-fungal cream

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after touching infected nails. Clean under your nails using a nailbrush.

• 2

  Dry your hands and nails thoroughly after washing or bathing.

• 3

  Keep your fingernails well-groomed. Trim them regularly using sharp, clean manicure scissors or clippers. Smooth the nail edges with an emery board.

• 4

  Resist the urge to bite or pick at fingernails and the surrounding skin tissue to avoid spreading the infection.

• 5

  Soak your hands for 15 to 20 minutes daily in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts warm water. Rinse and dry your hands thoroughly after soaking.

• 6

  Use an anti-fungal cream prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may first send a scraping of the infected nail(s) away for a culture to confirm the diagnosis and identify the type of fungus.