Nail Fungus and Classic Manicure – Can You Apply Nail Polish on Fungal-Infected Nails?

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection caused by fungi, most commonly dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. It manifests through discoloration, thickening, brittleness, and deformation of the nails. This condition is contagious and can easily spread to other parts of the body or other individuals. For this reason, nails affected by fungal infection should not undergo nail styling or any type of manicure, including classic manicure.

Why is a manicure not allowed in the case of nail fungus?

There are several key reasons why manicure procedures are contraindicated when a fungal infection is present:

Risk of spreading the infection – During a manicure, especially when the nail plate is being worked on, fungi can be transferred to other nails or the surrounding skin. The infection can also contaminate tools and products used during the procedure, such as brushes, files, nail polish, or conditioners.
Risk of infecting others – If shared tools are used for nail styling, there is a risk that the fungal infection may spread to other clients, even if disinfection procedures are not fully effective. Fungi can survive on surfaces and tools, which is why responsible salons refuse to perform manicures on clients with visible symptoms of a fungal infection.
Interference with the treatment process – Applying polish to an infected nail can hinder the effectiveness of antifungal treatments, which need direct contact with the nail plate to work. Additionally, sealing the infected nail under a layer of polish can promote the growth of fungi due to limited air access and increased moisture.

How is nail fungus treated?

Nail fungus requires appropriate treatment by a dermatologist or podiatrist. The treatment can take time and may include several methods:

Topical treatment – Applying special antifungal nail lacquers, ointments, creams, or solutions directly to the nail. These products act locally to destroy the fungi.
Oral treatment – For advanced infections, a doctor may prescribe antifungal medications taken orally. These systemic drugs help combat the infection from within the body.
Podiatric procedures – A podiatrist can clean the infected nails by removing dead parts of the nail plate, which facilitates the absorption of antifungal medications. The specialist can also advise on proper hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.
Laser treatment – In some cases, laser therapy is used to precisely target and eliminate the fungal infection without damaging healthy tissues.

How to prevent nail fungus?

After completing treatment, it is important to follow preventive measures to avoid reinfection. Some essential practices include:

Maintaining proper hand and foot hygiene – Regular washing and thorough drying of feet and hands after bathing help prevent fungal growth.
Using personal manicure tools – Using your own nail files, clippers, and other accessories reduces the risk of transmitting infections.
Wearing breathable footwear – Warm and moist environments promote fungal growth, so it is advisable to wear shoes made of natural materials and change socks frequently to keep them dry.
Avoiding high-risk public places – Public pools, saunas, and gyms are common areas where fungal infections can spread. It is recommended to wear protective flip-flops and maintain proper hygiene in these locations.
Strengthening the immune system – A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep help the body defend itself against infections, including fungal infections.

In my opinion

Nail fungus is a serious contraindication for classic manicures and other nail styling treatments. Due to the risk of spreading the infection and the possibility of infecting others, it is essential to undergo proper treatment beforehand. Once the infection has been treated, it is safe to return to nail care procedures, provided that hygiene and preventive measures are maintained.

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