How to prevent
toenail fungus infection?

It’s important to protect your feet so you don’t get a toenail fungus infection. If you’re already being treated, taking care of your feet can help the medicine work better and stop the fungal infection from coming back.

Fungi are all around us, so it’s not possible to avoid them completely. But you can lower your chances of getting infected by following these tips:

• While you are being treated, avoid high-risk areas like public spas, swimming pools, showers and locker rooms where fungi are more likely to be picked up. If you do visit these places, protect yourself—wear flip flops and make sure to wash and dry your feet and hands afterward.
• Wash your feet and hands often and keep them dry, especially after sports. Wear cotton socks to soak up sweat from your feet and change them often to keep them dry and fresh.
• Wear shoes that are comfortable and let your feet breathe.
• Keep your toenails cut short. If you have an infection, don’t use nail polish.
• Don’t share towels, shoes, or nail tools (like clippers or brushes). This helps stop the fungus from spreading to others, like family members.
• Stay healthy and keep your immune system strong. People with diabetes or psoriasis are at a higher risk.