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January 9, 2025Acrylic nails can make your hands look absolutely stunning and give you that polished, glamorous look you love. But, they can also lead to unexpected problems like nail fungus. In case you notice your nails are turning discolored, feeling thicker than normal, or even starting to lift, there’s a chance you might be dealing with a fungal infection. The more you know about this problem, the easier you can get rid of it. Here, we will tell you all about nail fungus from acrylic nails. So, read on to learn more about the treatment options and practical ways to prevent it.
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ToggleCan You Get Fungus from Acrylic Nails?
Yes, you can get nail fungus in Scottsdale from acrylic nails! Fungus thrives in dark, damp places, and a loose acrylic nail creates the perfect place for them. Moisture can get trapped between your natural nail and the acrylic, giving the fungus an open invitation.
Symptoms of Fungus on Fingernails from Acrylic Nails
If you notice these signs, you’ve probably got nail fungus from acrylic nails:
- Nails turn yellow, green, brown, or black.
- Nails feel thicker and harder to trim.
- Nails crack, split, or crumble.
- The surface develops ridges or rough texture.
- Gaps form as nails lift from the skin.
- Nails feel softer or weaker.
- Nails lose transparency and look cloudy.
- White spots appear in early stages.
- Discomfort or pressure under the nail.
- Musty or sour odor from the nail.
What Does Nail Fungus from Acrylic Look Like?
Nail fungus from acrylics often looks discolored, with yellow, green, or brown streaks that appear on the surface. The nail’s texture may seem rough or bumpy instead of smooth. In some cases, the nail may lift away from the nail bed, and create an odd and noticeable gap.
What Causes Nail Fungus from Acrylic Nails?
The main causes of nail fungus from acrylic nails include:
- Moisture under the acrylic creates a humid environment perfect for fungal growth.
- Using dirty or improperly cleaned tools during nail application introduces fungus.
- Keeping acrylic nails on for too long without maintenance allows infections to develop.
- Small damages, like cracks or lifted edges, provide an entry point for fungi.
- Poorly applied acrylics can trap moisture or create uneven surfaces where fungus can grow.
- Failing to clean and maintain nails regularly increases the risk.
- Cuts or abrasions around the nail bed can make the area more vulnerable to infection.
Nail Fungus from Acrylic Nails Treatment
These treatment options can help nail fungus from acrylic nails:
- Our doctors often recommend removing the acrylic nails to stop trapping moisture. This step allows your natural nail to breathe and makes other treatments more effective.
- Prescription-strength antifungal creams, nail lacquers, or solutions are other treatment options. These treatments work on the surface and are effective for mild to moderate infections.
- For more severe infections, we might prescribe oral medications like terbinafine or itraconazole. These treatments attack the fungus internally and are especially helpful for stubborn cases.
- Laser treatment is another treatment option that emits focused light to penetrate the nail and kill fungal cells.
- Doctors may perform debridement, where they trim, file, or thin the infected nail. This reduces fungal load and helps other treatments penetrate more effectively.
- In extreme cases where the infection is unresponsive to other treatments, our doctor may remove the entire nail. This allows direct treatment of the nail bed and lets a healthy nail grow back.
Home Remedies for Nail Fungus from Acrylic Nails
If you’re looking for natural ways to manage and treat nail fungus, several home remedies may help. These methods can reduce symptoms and support recovery, but they can’t replace medical treatments. It’s always best to consult a doctor for proper treatment. The most common home remedies for fungus from acrylic nails include:
- Soak your nails in equal parts vinegar and water for 15-20 mins daily.
- Apply a few drops of tea tree oil directly to the nail.
- Soak nails in Listerine for 20 mins.
- Apply baking soda paste for 10 mins, then rinse.
- Crush and apply fresh garlic to the nail.
- Massage coconut oil daily onto the nail.
- Soak nails in warm water with Epsom salt for 15-20 mins.
How Long Does It Take for Fingernail Fungus to Clear Up?
The time it takes to clear fingernail fungus depends on the severity of the infection and the treatment used. Let’s see how long it takes to get rid of fungus from acrylic nails based on the severity:
- Mild infections may take 6 to 8 weeks.
- Moderate infections may take 3 to 6 months
- Severe infections can take 6 to 12 months.
How to Prevent Green Nail Fungus from Acrylic Nails?
To prevent fungus from acrylic nails, foot doctors Scottsdale:
- Choose a professional salon
- Inspect the fit of your acrylics
- Take breaks between applications
- Fix cracks and lifts immediately
- Keep nails dry and clean
- Avoid sharing nail tools
- Use an antifungal base coat
Nail Fungus Treatment Near Me in Arizona
If you’re in Arizona and dealing with nail fungus, the Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers can help. We offer effective treatments to restore your nails and keep your feet healthy. We focus on eliminating the infection and restoring your nails to their healthy, natural appearance. With our personalized care, you can make sure that you’re in good hands. All you need to do is make an online appointment for free consultation.
Let’s Recap
Nail fungus from acrylic nails can be frustrating, but it’s manageable if you go to a skilled doctor. Treatment options range from home to medical solutions. Don’t forget that prevention is the best strategy. Choose clean salons, take breaks between acrylic sets, and fix nail damage immediately. With consistent care, healthy and beautiful nails are within reach!
FAQs
It’s best to avoid acrylics until the infection clears up. Let your natural nails recover.
The green color usually means a fungal infection caused by trapped moisture.
Prescription oral antifungal medications are the most effective option.
Look for products with clotrimazole or undecylenic acid to treat mild infections.
It helps, but if moisture gets trapped under the acrylic, soap won’t stop the fungus.
Remove the acrylic nail, keep the area clean, and use antifungal treatments.