As foot and ankle specialists, we often see patients who unknowingly expose their nails to fungal infections through seemingly harmless habits. One culprit is shared nail polish—both in professional salons and between friends or family members.
The Hidden Risk in a Bottle of Nail Polish
Nail polish can become a potential carrier for nail fungus (onychomycosis) when shared. In a busy nail salon, a single bottle of polish could be used on dozens—even hundreds—of clients before being replaced. If just one of those clients has a fungal infection, the brush could pick up microscopic fungal spores and transfer them to the next person’s nails.
Manufacturers of nail polish often state that their products are safe to share, provided there is no visible fungal infection. Early fungal infections can be subtle, showing up as minor discoloration or slight nail thickening that can easily be overlooked.
Could You Be at Risk By Using Shaed Nail Polish?
If you’ve recently had a pedicure at a salon or shared nail polish with a friend and notice changes in your toenails—such as yellowing, thickening, or brittleness—you may have been exposed to nail fungus. While not dangerous, fungal infections can be persistent, unsightly, and difficult to treat without professional care. Consulting a toenail podiatrist is often essential to finding relief and preventing further complications, ensuring you receive the right diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you’re concerned about a possible toenail fungus infection, visit your podiatrist at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle for an evaluation. Early treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and help restore your nails to a healthier state.
Tips for Keeping Your Toenails Healthy
Whether you enjoy getting professional pedicures or painting your nails at home, here are some key tips to protect your toenails from infection:
- Bring Your Own Polish – If you love having your nails painted at a salon, consider bringing your own bottle to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination.
- Use Disposable or Sterilized Tools – Always make sure the salon uses sterilized instruments or brings out a fresh, disposable set for each customer.
- Ask About Hygiene Practices – A reputable salon will prioritize cleanliness, including disinfecting footbaths and ensuring technicians wash their hands between clients.
- Don’t Let a Salon Paint Over Infected Nails – If you have a fungal infection, covering it with polish won’t make it go away. It can actually make it worse by trapping moisture.
- Give Nails a Break – Avoid keeping polish on continuously; allow your nails time to breathe between applications.
- Keep Feet Dry and Clean – Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, so dry your feet thoroughly after bathing and wear moisture-wicking socks.
Your toenail health matters, and prevention is always better than treatment. If you suspect you might have a toenail fungus infection, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with our clinic today!
