● Inflammatory conditions : Inflammatory conditions, such as psoriasis or lichen planus, affect the nails and surrounding tissues, which causes nail changes, swelling,
pain, and discomfort. Proper diagnosis and management are essential for relief.
COMMON NAIL DISEASES AND DISORDERS AND HOW TO IDENTIFY THEM 1. Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails that causes discoloration, thickening, and brittleness that is primarily caused by dermatophytes, yeast, or mold. Onychomycosis accounts for about 50% of all nail dystrophies (Merck Manual, 2022). While not highly contagious, it can spread through direct contact or sharing of contaminated items like nail clippers. Nail techs should proceed with caution when working on clients with onychomycosis. Proper sanitation protocols, including disinfecting tools and surfaces, are critical to preventing transmission. Some nail techs may choose to decline services to avoid potential risks. Clients with the infection should seek medical treatment that includes antifungal medication to help manage symptoms and prevent further spread. 2. Paronychia Paronychia is a common infection around the nail and cuticle area that causes redness, swelling, and pain. It can be acute and is typically caused by bacteria or chronic fungal infections. Paronychia is one of the most common infections of the hand. It is contagious and usually transmitted through direct contact with infected nails. Nail techs should exercise caution when working on clients with paronychia. Sanitizing tools and maintaining strict hygiene practices are essential to prevent the spread of the infection. Depending on the severity, nail techs may choose to defer services until the infection resolves or provide services with extra care. Ensure proper disinfection protocols are in place for the well-being of clients and yourself. 3. Onycholysis Onycholysis is a condition that causes the nail to separate from the nail bed, resulting in a white or yellow discoloration and sometimes pain. It can occur spontaneously or as a result of trauma, bacterial nail infections, fungal infections, tumors, systemic conditions, or underlying medical conditions like psoriasis (DermNet, 2020). It's not contagious unless it is caused by a fungal infection. Nail techs should exercise caution when working on clients with onycholysis, as it can worsen an existing condition or lead to potential complications. Adhering to strict hygiene practices, such as disinfecting tools and maintaining proper nail care, is required. Depending on the severity, nail techs can adjust services or advise clients to seek medical attention before proceeding with any nail service. 4. Green nail syndrome ( Pseudomonas Infection) Green nail syndrome is a bacterial infection characterized by greenish discoloration of the nails, and it is often accompanied by pain and swelling. Caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa , it commonly affects fingernails, especially those exposed to moist environments. You’ll often see this infection show up on clients who wear artificial nail enhancements.
Quick Facts About Onychomycosis Definition : Fungal infection of the nail. Causes : Fungi, yeast, and mold infections, often due to moisture and warmth. How to spot it : Discoloration—usually yellowish, thickening, and crumbling of the nail. Risk factors : Age, diabetes, swimming, compromised immune system. Treatment : Antifungal medications (oral and topical), laser therapy, and nail removal by a medical professional in severe cases. Prevention : Proper hygiene, keeping feet dry, wearing breathable footwear. Quick Facts About Paronychia Definition : Infection around the nail. Causes : Bacterial or fungal infection, injury to the nail area. How you can spot it : Redness, swelling, pain, pus-filled blisters. Risk factors : Nail biting, frequent hand washing, manicure trauma. Diagnosis : Physical examination, culture of the pus if necessary. Treatment : Warm soaks, antibiotics or antifungals, drainage of abscess by a medical professional. Prevention : Avoiding trauma to the nails, proper nail care, and avoiding prolonged moisture exposure. Quick Facts About Onycholysis Definition : Separation of the nail from the nail bed. Causes : Trauma, infection, psoriasis, thyroid disease. Symptoms : White discoloration under the nail, detachment of the nail. Risk factors : Repeated trauma, chemical exposure, certain medications. Diagnosis : Clinical evaluation, underlying cause investigation. Treatment : Treating the underlying cause, keeping nails trimmed and dry. Prevention : Providing gentle nail care, avoiding irritants, managing underlying conditions. Pseudomonas aeruginosa thrives in the moist environments between acrylic nails and the natural nail bed. The bacteria produce a green pigment that causes nail discoloration. Factors such as poor hygiene, improper application of acrylic or other artificial nails, or damage to the nail bed can increase the risk of infection. Nail technicians should follow strict sanitation protocols to prevent green nail syndrome, and clients should maintain proper nail care practices that include regular cleaning and drying of the nails.
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