Acrylic Nail Fungus: Causes, Signs, Treatments, and Prevention
What is Acrylic Nail Fungus?
Acrylic nail fungus is a common condition that occurs when a fungus infects the natural nail plate, which can cause the nails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. Acrylic nails are artificial nails made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powdered polymer that is applied over the natural nails. These nails can be more susceptible to fungal infection than natural nails because they create a warm, moist environment that is ideal for fungus growth.
Causes of Acrylic Nail Fungus
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing acrylic nail fungus, including:
- Wearing acrylic nails for an extended period of time
- Not properly disinfecting nail tools
- Having a history of nail fungus
- Having a weakened immune system
- Exposure to water or moisture for long periods of time
Signs and Symptoms of Acrylic Nail Fungus
The symptoms of acrylic nail fungus can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:
- Yellow, brown, or white discoloration of the nails
- Thickened nails
- Brittle, crumbly nails
- Lifting or detachment of the nails
- Pain or tenderness in the nails
- Formation of debris or pus under the nails
Treatment of Acrylic Nail Fungus
The treatment of acrylic nail fungus typically involves taking oral antifungal medications or using topical antifungal creams or ointments. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions and to complete the entire course of treatment to prevent the fungus from recurring. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the acrylic nails to allow the medications to penetrate the nail bed more effectively.
Prevention of Acrylic Nail Fungus
To prevent the development of acrylic nail fungus, it is important to:
- Keep nails clean and dry
- Avoid sharing nail tools
- Disinfect nail tools before and after each use
- Choose a nail salon that follows proper sanitation practices
- Limit the amount of time you wear acrylic nails
- Remove acrylic nails if you suspect an infection
If you have any concerns about acrylic nail fungus, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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