Nail Fungus in the Salon

How to Spot It, Stop It, Treat It, and When to Refer to a Podiatrist

If you work in a nail salon, chances are you’ve encountered nail fungo in the salon without even realising it. These infections, known as onicomicose, are more common than many people think. Although they aren’t immediately dangerous, they can be persistent and unsightly, making them difficult to eradicate. This underscores the importance of early detection and effective management, especially in a salon setting where hygiene is critical.

So, how do you spot nail fungus early, what should you do if a client has it, and when is it time to refer them to a podólogo? Let’s break it all down, step by step.

What Is Nail Fungus? (Onychomycosis)

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a slow-growing infection caused by fungal organisms called dermatophytes. These fungi feed on queratina, one of the proteins that makes up nails and skin, leading to thickened, discoloured, and often unhas quebradiças.

The infection can start in one nail and, if left untreated, may spread to others including fingernails, though toenails are far more commonly affected.

But here’s the kicker: nail fungus is stubborn. It doesn’t clear up on its own and often requires months of treatment. That’s why early detection and proper management are so important especially in a salon setting where hygiene is everything.

Identifying Nail Fungus in the Salon

In the early stages, fungal nail infections can be sneaky. They don’t always scream “Hey, I’m a infecção fúngica!” Instead, they often start small, with just a faint discolouration somewhere in or around the nail or leito ungueal. Over time, though, they become much more obvious.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For:

• Discolouration – Yellow, white, or brown patches on the nail. Some nails may even appear greenish or black in severe cases.
• Thickening – The nail may become unusually thick, making it difficult to cut.
• Brittleness – The edges of the nail may crumble, split, or break away easily.
• Levantamento (Onicólise) – The nail may separate from the leito ungueal, creating a gap where dirt and bactérias can collect.
• Distortion – The shape of the nail may change, becoming more curved or uneven.
• Odour – In some cases, fungal nails can develop a slightly unpleasant smell.

Fungal nails don’t always cause pain, but if the infection progresses, the thickened nail can press against shoes, leading to discomfort or even secondary bacterial infections.

Differential Diagnosis: Is It Really a Fungal Infection?

Not every thick, discoloured, or damaged nail is caused by fungus. As a Técnico de unhas, it’s important to know the difference between a fungal infection and other conditions that can mimic it.

Conditions That Can Look Like Nail Fungus:

• Trauma – Repeated pressure from tight shoes or injury can cause thickening, white patches, and even nail detachment.
• Psoríase – Psoriatic nails often have pitting (small dents), thickening, and a yellowish or red discolouration.
• Eczema & Other Skin Conditions – These can cause frágil, flaky nails that may look similar to fungal infections.
• Bacterial Infections – Greenish nails, often seen in salon clients, are usually caused by a Pseudomonas bacteria rather than fungus.
• Aging Nails – As we age, our nails naturally thicken and become more brittle, which can sometimes mimic fungal changes.

If you’re unsure whether a client has a fungal infection or another condition, do not attempt to diagnose it yourself. Remember, accurately identifying nail fungus in the salon is crucial for appropriate referral to a podiatrist for proper testing and confirmation.

What Should You Do If You Spot Nail Fungus in the Salon?

1. Do Not Perform a Treatment on the Affected Nail

It’s tempting to try and cover up a discoloured nail that may or may not be a fungal infection with esmalte ou (gel/, but that won’t solve the problem. In fact, it can make things worse by trapping moisture and encouraging fungal growth. Plus, working on an infected nail puts your clients at risk especially if they are not properly cleaned and desinfetado.

Instead, gently explain to the client what you’ve noticed and recommend they seek professional advice.

2. Disinfect Everything

Fungal infections spread through tiny spores, which can linger on tools, lixas de unha, and in footbaths. To prevent cross-contamination:

• Wash all metal tools and surfaces with soap & water first
• Use hospital-grade disinfectants on all surfaces and metal tools.
• Dispose of single-use items like nail files and amortecedores.
• Properly clean footbaths between clients.

3. Advise the Client on Next Steps

If you suspect a fungal nail infection, advise your client to visit a podiatrist. Many people don’t realise that fungal infections need medical treatment, simply cutting or filing the nail won’t make it go away. The only way to be sure it is a fungal infection is to test for it.

Treatment Options for Fungal Nails

Once diagnosed, clients have a range of treatment options. As a nail technician, understanding these treatments will help you educate your clients and support them in their nail health journey.

1. Topical Antifungals (Lacquers, Creams & Solutions)

These are applied directly to the nail and can help in mild cases, though they require regular use for months. Popular options include:

• Amorolfine (Loceryl) – A medicated esmalte para unhas.
• Terbinafine (Lamisil)- A strong anti fungal spray
• Ciclopirox (Curanail) – Another antifungal varnish.
• Óleo da árvore do chá & Natural Remedies – Some clients swear by them, but results vary.

2. Oral Antifungal Medications (Prescription-Only)

For more severe cases, podiatrists may prescribe oral antifungals like:

• Terbinafine – One of the most effective options, usually taken for 3–6 months.
• Itraconazol (Sporanox) – Another option, often used for those who can’t take terbinafine.

3. Laser Therapy

Some clinics offer laser treatment to target fungal infections. This can be effective, but it’s expensive and not always widely available and again results vary.

4. Nail Removal (In Extreme Cases)

If the infection is severe, a podiatrist may recommend removing the nail completely. This allows for direct treatment to the nail bed and prevents the fungus from spreading further.

When to Refer to a Podiatrist

As a salon professional, you’re not expected to diagnose or treat fungal infections—but you can play a vital role in guiding your clients to the right help.

Refer a Client to a Podiatrist If:

• The nail is thickened, discoloured, or crumbling.
• The infection is spreading to multiple nails.
• The client has had the infection for a long time with no improvement.
• The client has diabetes or poor circulation (these conditions increase the risk of complications).
• The nail is lifting or causing pain.

Podiatrists can confirm whether the issue is fungal (using lab tests if necessary) and offer the most appropriate treatment.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Clients and Your Salon

Fungal nails are a common but often overlooked issue in salons. As a professional, your job isn’t just to make nails look pretty—it’s also to protect your clients’ health.

By learning to recognise possible fungal infections, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and referring clients to podiatrists when needed, you’re setting yourself apart as a knowledgeable and responsible nail technician.

And let’s be honest, nobody wants fungus ruining their flawless pedicure. So, stay vigilant, educate your clients, and keep your salon a fungus-free zone.