1. Practice Good Nail Hygiene
You can reduce your chances of developing a nail infection by making sure to keep both your toenails and fingernails short, clean and evenly trimmed. If your nails are particularly thick around their corners, you can also use a nail file to smooth down sharp edges, but don’t clip or file too deeply into the corners. After you come out of the bath or shower, it’s important that you dry your nails off too, since leaving moisture to collect beneath their surfaces increases your infection risk.
2. Wear the Right Socks
Nail fungus grows in darkness and moisture, so the more you trap moisture inside your socks, the greater your chances of developing paronychia, or a nail infection. Let your feet breathe by removing your shoes whenever possible. Change your socks frequently and consider wearing socks made of synthetic fibers, which release moisture better than natural fibers like cotton. However, you should be vigilant about keeping your feet covered when you go outdoors. Any cuts or abrasions you suffer while barefoot will collect dirt and debris as you walk along both natural and man-made surfaces. This could lead to infection, especially if you’re in a remote location and unable to treat the cut promptly.
3. Keep Your Fingers Covered
You can prevent fingernail paronychia by wearing water-resistant rubber gloves if you’re going to be exposing your hands to excessive moisture. Gardening also promotes fingernail infection, as fungal spores and bacteria from rotting vegetation can invade tiny cuts and scratches. Make sure to cover up to keep dirt from collecting around your fingertips.
4. Research Your Nail Salon
Word of mouth is an important tool in your research arsenal. If you regularly get manicures or pedicures, make sure to choose a salon that observes careful equipment sterilization techniques. Many men and women also choose to bring their own tools for the esthetician to use during the session, since this ensures you won’t be contaminated with another person’s germs.
5. Sanitize Your Hands and Feet
Keeping your feet and hands clean at all times is the best daily defense against paronychia. You can supplement soap and water with anti-fungal sprays, foot powders and topical lotions. Proper, thorough hand-washing is also a must. Make sure you lather for at least 30 seconds, scrub under your nails and use warm rather than cold water when you clean your hands.
