Symptoms of an infection include pain, redness, itching, and pus in or around the nail area. Yellow-green, green, and green-black nail discolorations are signs of a Pseudomonas bacterial infection. A blue-green discoloration signals a fungal infection.

If an infection appears while wearing artificial nails, they should be removed and the area cleaned thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms persist, the person should consult a doctor, who may prescribe a topical or oral anti-infective medicine.

There are no approved nonprescription products to treat fungal nail infections, and over-the-counter products to treat other types of fungal infections should not be used for nail infections. In a review of OTC antifungal products, FDA found that fungal infections of the nails respond poorly to topical therapy, partly because of the nail’s thickness. So, in 1993, the agency ruled that any OTC product labeled, represented or promoted as a topical antifungal to treat fungal infections of the nail is a new drug and must be approved by FDA before marketing. This rule, which went into effect in 1994, does not include prescription antifungal products.

Despite the rule, some companies continue to sell unapproved OTC nail products, such as nail glues, with antifungal claims. FDA has warned these companies it might take legal action if they don’t stop selling the products.

Fingernails: Looking Good While Playing Safe

If you suspect you have a nail infection, give us a call at 918-280-TOES. We can direct you to additional information and resources.

Post from: I Do Nalz Salon and Spa of Tulsa

Bacterial and fungal infections frequently result from artificial nails, whether applied at home or in a salon. If the artificial nail begins to lift from the natural nail at the base, an opening is created for dirt to get in. If the nail is reglued without proper cleaning, bacteria or fungi might grow between the artificial and natural nails and spread into the natural nail. If you notice this happening between fills, give us a call, or make SURE you clean the nail with rubbing alcohol before attempting to reglue the nail.

Also, as the natural nail grows, an opening develops between the natural nail and artificial nail. If this space is not filled in regularly, it can increase the chances for infection. This is why we recommend fills every two weeks, and why it’s important to keep that regular maintenance schedule.

A fungal infection can also take hold when an acrylic nail is left in place too long, such as three months or more, and moisture accumulates under the nail.

Bacterial, fungal and viral infections can occur from using insanitary nail implements, especially in salons where the same implements are used on many people. This is why we are so fanatic about cleaning and disinfecting our implements and washing our hands - yours AND ours!

Post from: I Do Nalz Salon and Spa of Tulsa

Post from: I Do Nalz Salon and Spa of Tulsa