How to Help Prevent Nail Fungus

Prevention focuses on moisture, exposure, skin fungus and nail trauma. The goal is to make it harder for fungi to reach and persist around the nail.

Daily prevention habits

• Dry feet thoroughly after bathing.
• Change damp socks and rotate footwear.
• Wear sandals in communal showers, pools and locker rooms.
• Do not share nail clippers, files, towels or footwear.
• Keep nails trimmed and avoid repeated toe pressure from tight shoes.
• Treat athlete's foot appropriately so it is less likely to spread to nails.

At salons

Choose a salon that follows appropriate instrument sanitation practices. Do not allow aggressive cuticle cutting or procedures that injure the skin around the nail.

If you've had nail fungus before

Recurrence can happen. Follow the prevention and maintenance plan recommended by your clinician, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes or circulation problems.

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Last reviewed: September 28, 2026