Start developing these habits to make sure your feet are spring and summer ready:
- Wash your feet frequently: This is undoubtedly one of the most crucial yet overlooked standard measures for preventing toenail fungus. Wash your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, every time you shower.
- Keep toenails short: Long toenails offer the perfect hiding spot for dirt, germs and yes – fungus. By trimming them regularly, you deny a hiding place for these things and therefore reduce the chance of possible infection.
- Don’t share nail clippers: Nail clippers are the number one culprits when it comes to spreading infections from one person to the next. Nail fungus thrives perfectly well in the microscopic grooves of clippers. To avoid getting an infection, use only your own clippers or disinfect clippers before use.
- Use an antifungal powder or spray: If you’re particularly susceptible to sweaty feet and/or nail fungus, spritz your feet with an antifungal spray or dust them with powder to minimize the risk of contracting it during close-toed-shoe season.
- Avoid nail polish: If you’ve got some discoloration on your nails, resist the urge to cover it with polish. After all, this time of the year, your feet aren’t on display as much, giving you ample time to let your nails return to their normal color.
- Don’t walk barefoot in public places: Indoor pools, locker rooms and shower areas are some of the most common sources of toenail fungus. To prevent an infection, it is important to wear shoes or sandals around any moist public areas.
- Wear cotton socks: Warm and moist places are a breeding ground for fungus. Cotton socks minimize the amount of moisture and humidity in your shoes. Just be sure to change them frequently if you’re prone to sweaty feet.