Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention

Overview

What is nail infection (paronychia)?

A nail infection, or paronychia, is an infection of the skin that surrounds a fingernail. The infected tissue can be tender and painful with swelling. Paronychia is considered acute if it lasts less than 6 weeks, or chronic if it lasts longer.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes a nail infection (paronychia)?

Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria are the most common culprits in acute paronychia but there are other causes as well.

Chronic paronychia tends to be caused by repeated inflammation from irritants, moisture or allergens, and may involve multiple nails. Infection with fungus and bacteria may also occur. Paronychia may be seen in people with eczema or psoriasis, or as a side effect of a medication.

How does a nail infection (paronychia) occur?

Any trauma to the nail or skin surrounding the nail such as aggressively trimming or manicuring your nails can create a way for bacteria to enter and cause an infection. People who have jobs that frequently expose their hands to water or irritants such as chemicals used in washing dishes are at an increased risk of chronic paronychia. Persons with diabetes or diseases that compromise the immune system are more likely to develop infections.

Diagnosis and Tests

How can I tell if I have a nail infection (paronychia)?

With acute paronychia, a crack in the nail fold or trauma to the nail is usually seen first. Then your finger and nail fold may become red, tender and swollen.

In contrast, chronic paronychia is diagnosed after 6 weeks of inflammation, and may affect several nails and may cause the nail to appear deformed.

How is a nail infection (paronychia) diagnosed?

Most often, the diagnosis is made by the appearance of the nail and the skin around it. Your doctor will decide if a culture (taking a bit of tissue from the area for lab examination) is necessary.

Management and Treatment

How is a nail infection (paronychia) treated?

Paronychia will be diagnosed by your doctor. The treatment will be based on the severity of inflammation and infection and may include drainage, topical or oral medications.

Prevention

How can I prevent a nail infection (paronychia)?

Taking proper care of your nails will greatly reduce the chance of an infection. Do not chew on your nails or pick at the skin around them. Do not trim the cuticles (the skin at the base of the nail). Disrupting the nail or cuticle will create an entry for bacteria and fungi. In general, you should keep your hands away from chronic water exposure and avoid any irritants or allergens from coming in contact with your skin.

Acute and Chronic Paronychia – American Family Physician

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What Clinicians Can Do When Patients Present with Paronychia

When a patient presents with a red, swollen, and painful area close to the nail bed, it may be more than just a cut.

Paronychia—an inflammatory reaction caused by bacterial invasion of the proximal or lateral nail fold—is the most common hand infection in the United States. The painful lesion usually occurs on one side of the nail, but if left untreated, it can become a “run-around” infection that spreads to the entire peri-nail area. It can also develop on toes.

Patients may report a traumatic injury, hangnails, or cracks around the nail preceding paronychia. Nail-biters are at increased risk for a different infection—Eikenella corrodens—in the mouth.

Paronychia can present in 2 forms: an acute infection that’s usually bacterial, or a chronic condition that’s most often fungal. In most cases, retail clinicians only need to conduct a physical exam to make the diagnosis. If there’s any question about the causative organism, cultures may be needed.

In the case of acute infection, the usual culprit isStaphylococcus aureus,but occasionally,Streptococcus pyogenesmay be involved. Paronychia with an abscess would require incision and drainage.

For cases of uncomplicated paronychia with no abscess, clinicians can advise patients to soak the infection in warm water, aluminum acetate (Burow solution), vinegar, chlorhexidine, or povidone-iodine 3 to 4 times a day. For more severe paronychia, clinicians can prescribe oral antibiotics with gram-positive coverage, such as antistaph penicillins like amoxicillin/clavulanate. A first-generation cephalosporin, such as cotrimoxazole or clindamycin, can address infection and is often given in conjunction with topical steroids (betamethsone). Patients should also continue with soaks.

Treatment options for chronic paronychia include long-course oral antifungals, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or fluconazole, along with appropriate monitoring.

In both types of paronychia, patient education can speed resolution and prevent recurrence. In all cases, OTC analgesics can help relieve pain.

In addition to complete treatment adherence, clinicians should remind patients to do the following:

â–ºKeep their fingers out of their mouths.

â–ºAvoid trauma to their digits and irritants.

â–ºNever cut the nail fold or cuticle.

â–ºKeep their digits dry (wear cotton-lined gloves or boots).

â–ºMoisturize if the skin becomes dry.

Paronychia | DermNet NZ

Author: Hon A/Prof Amanda Oakley, Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand, 1997.  Updated by Dr Jannet Gomez, August 2017. 

What is paronychia?

Paronychia is inflammation of the skin around a finger or toenail. It can be acute (< 6 weeks) or chronic (persisting > 6 weeks).

Paronychia is also called whitlow. It may be associated with felon (infection of the pulp of the fingertip).

Who gets paronychia?

Acute paronychia can affect anyone. However, it is more likely to follow a break in the skin, especially between the proximal nail fold/cuticle and the nail plate. For example:

Chronic paronychia mainly occurs in people with hand dermatitis, or who have constantly cold and wet hands, such as:

Acute and chronic skin infections tend to be more frequent and aggressive in patients with diabetes or chronic debility, or that are immune suppressed by drugs or disease.

What causes paronychia?

Acute paronychia is usually due to bacterial infection with Staphylococcus aureus (which may be multiresistant), Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas, or other bacterial pathogens. It can also be due to the cold sore virus, Herpes simplex, and the yeast, Candida albicans.

The cause or causes of chronic paronychia are not fully understood. In many cases, it is due to dermatitis of the nail fold. Often several different micro-organisms can be cultured, particularly Candida albicans and the Gram-negative bacilli, pseudomonas.

What are the clinical features of paronychia?

Acute paronychia

Acute paronychia develops rapidly over a few hours, and usually affects a single nail fold. Symptoms are pain, redness and swelling. 

If herpes simplex is the cause, multiple tender vesicles may be observed. Sometimes yellow pus appears under the cuticle and can evolve to abscess. The nail plate may lift up (onycholysis). Acute paronychia due to S. pyogenes may be accompanied by fever, lymphangitis and tender lymphadenopathy.

Acute candida more commonly infects the proximal nail fold.

Acute paronychia

Chronic paronychia

Chronic paronychia is a gradual process. It may start in one nail fold, particularly the proximal nail fold, but often spreads laterally and to several other fingers. Each affected nail fold is swollen and lifted off the nail plate. This allows the entry of organisms and irritants. The affected skin may be red and tender from time to time, and sometimes a little pus (white, yellow or green) can be expressed from under the cuticle.

The nail plate thickens and is distorted, often with transverse ridges.

Chronic paronychia

See more images of paronychia …

What are the complications of paronychia?

Acute paronychia can spread to cause a serious hand infection (cellulitis) and may involve underlying tendons (infectious tendonitis).

The main complication of chronic paronychia is nail dystrophy. It is often associated with distorted, ridged nail plates. They may become yellow or green/black and brittle. After recovery, it takes up to a year for the nails to grow back to normal.

How is paronychia diagnosed?

Paronychia is a clinical diagnosis, often supported by laboratory evidence of infection.

• Gram stain microscopy may reveal bacteria 
• Potassium hydroxide microscopy may reveal fungi
• Bacterial culture  
• Viral swabs
• Tzanck smears
• Nail clippings for culture (mycology).

What is the treatment for paronychia?

Acute paronychia

• Soak affected digit in warm water, several times daily.
• Topical antiseptic may be prescribed for a localised, minor infection.
• Oral antibiotics may be necessary for severe or prolonged bacterial infection; often a tetracycline, such as doxycycline, is prescribed.
• Consider early treatment with aciclovir in case of severe herpes simplex infection.
• Surgical incision and drainage may be required for abscess followed by irrigation and packing with gauze.
• Rarely, the nail must be removed to allow pus to drain.

Chronic paronychia

Attend to predisposing factors.

• Keep the hands dry and warm.
• Avoid wet work, or use totally waterproof gloves that are lined with cotton.
• Keep fingernails scrupulously clean.
• Wash after dirty work with soap and water, rinse off and dry carefully.
• Apply emollient hand cream frequently – dimethicone barrier creams may help.

Treatment should focus on dermatitis and any microbes grown on culture  [1].

Other management

• Patients with diabetes and vascular disease with toenail paronychia infections should be examined for signs of cellulitis.
• Surgical excision of the proximal nail fold may be necessary.
• Eponychial marsupialisation involves surgical removal of a narrow strip of skin next to the nail, to reduce the risk of infection [3].
• Swiss roll technique has the advantage of retaining the nail plate and quicker recovery [4].

What is the outlook for paronychia?

Acute paronychia usually clears completely in a few days, and rarely recurs in healthy individuals.

Chronic paronychia may persist for months or longer and can recur in predisposed individuals.

What are Nail Fold Infections (Paronychia)?

The nail is the distal keratinized plate that covers the outermost dorsal part of the finger. It arises from the nail matrix, which is the germinal part of the nail plate under the nail. The nail fold is the tissue that encloses the nail matrix at the root of the nail. It attaches the nail to the rest of the skin through the protective cuticle.

Paronychia is a common infection that afflicts the skin around the nails. Causes may range from primary to secondary infections occurring as a result of a hangnail or picking off the cuticle.

Causes of paronychia

Paronychia may be due to bacterial, fungal or viral pathogens. In many cases a bacterial infection may be superimposed on a fungal infection. The infection is often introduced by injury, or by stress. It occurs three times as frequently in women as in men.

Fungal paronychia is more common in those who are diabetic, as well as those who wash their hands a lot.

Types of paronychia

Paronychia may be acute or chronic, depending upon the development of the infection over a few hours or lasting more than 6 weeks, respectively.

Symptoms

With an infection of the skin around the nails, the skin becomes red, swollen and painful. In many cases the infection is around the cuticle or associated with a hangnail. Some bacterial infections may produce fluid vesicles.

It is possible to distinguish between fungal and bacterial paronychia by the speed at which the symptoms develop. Bacterial infection has an acute onset.

In addition to the obvious signs of inflammation, the nails may show discoloration or changes in shape. If the paronychia is part of a more systemic illness, features of generalized infection may present such as fever, malaise, joint pain and red streaks along the affected part of the body due to infected lymph vessels.

Complications

In some patients, nail infections may produce permanent changes in the nail. Some infections may lead to abscess formation. Rarely, the infection may spread to involve the bone, or enter the bloodstream.

Diagnosis and management

Diagnosis of paronychia is a purely clinical one. However, pus culture may be performed if there is severe infection, or if vesicles are present.

Treatment with appropriate antibacterial agents is usually effective – oral antibiotics are commonly prescribed.

In addition, it is useful to soak the fingernail(s) in hot water several times a day to soften the skin and relieve the pain and swelling in bacterial paronychia. If pus is formed, an incision may be necessary to let it out. In a few cases where the pus is infiltrating under the fingernail, part of the nail may have to be removed to allow drainage.

Management of fungal paronychia involves keeping the hands dry and applying an antifungal ointment is advised. Substances which dry out the skin, such as Castellani paint, are also useful.

Prevention

Keeping the nails free of infection is a process which should not be neglected. Some steps to adhere to when you trim your nails are as follows:

• Trim your nails after your bath when they are softer.
• Trim your fingernails once a week, and toenails once a month.
• Keep the fingernails trimmed with a slight curve, but the toenails straight across, to prevent hangnails from forming.
• Use sharp scissors or nail clippers to trim your nails and smooth rough edges gently with an emery board.
• Do not pick loose bits off the nail to avoid tearing the nail bed or the cuticle. Cut them off neatly with a clean sharp pair of scissors or a nail clipper.

Other precautions include:

• Push the cuticle back gently and regularly.
• Avoid trauma to the nails because nails grow and heal very slowly, from 0. 01-0.03 mm a day.
• Never bite your nails.
• Prevent chemical injury by using protective gloves when you work with detergents or chemicals of any sort.
• Use your own personal manicure set even when you hire a manicurist to tend to your nails.
• Never trim your cuticles either using an instrument or with a chemical cuticle remover. This can allow the skin at the base of your nails to be injured which lets infection enter the nail fold or nail bed.

References

1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001444.htm
2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3884921/
3. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nail-abnormalities/Pages/Introduction.aspx#Beaus

Further Reading

Skin Infection Around Fingernails and Toenails

Paronychia is an infection of the layer of skin surrounding the nail (known as the perionychium). It is the most common hand infection in the United States and is seen frequently in children as a result of nail biting and finger sucking.

The condition can be classified as either acute (rapidly progressing with a short duration) or chronic (ongoing and persistent), depending on the amount of time the infection has been present.

Paronychia hand infection.
kckate16 / Getty Images 

Causes

Both acute and chronic paronychia start with the penetration of the outer layer of skin called the epidermis.

Acute paronychia is usually the result of a direct trauma to the skin, such as a cut, hangnail, or ingrown nail. Bacteria are the most common cause of the infection, predominately Staphylococcus aureus, but also certain strains of the Streptococcus and Pseudomonas bacteria.

Meanwhile, chronic paronychia is most frequently caused by repeated exposure to water-containing detergents, alkali, or other irritants. It can lead to swelling and gradual deterioration of the epidermal layer. Most chronic infections are caused by the fungus Candida albicans (yeast) and other fungal agents.

Appearance

Acute paronychia starts as a red, warm, painful swelling of the skin around the nail. Over time, accumulation of pus may separates the skin from the nail. In more severe cases, the lymph nodes in your elbow and armpit may swell and your nail may become discolored.

In chronic paronychia, redness and tenderness are usually less noticeable. The skin around the nail often looks baggy, and the cuticle may separate from the nail bed. The nail often becomes thickened and discolored with pronounced horizontal grooves on the surface. Green discoloration can occur in cases of Pseudomonas infection.

Diagnosis

Acute paronychia is typically diagnosed based on a review of the clinical symptoms. If pus is oozing, your doctor may make an incision to drain it.

In severe cases, they may culture bacteria from the drained pus to make a definitive diagnosis. This usually isn’t necessary because the bacteria is usually Staphylococcus or Streptococcus type, both of which are treated similarly.

Chronic paronychia tends to be more difficult to diagnose. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) test, using a smear is extracted from the nail fold, sometimes confirms a fungal infection. If pus is involved, a culture can confirm the presence of fungus or other, less common infectious agents.

Treatment

For an acute infection, soaking the nail in warm water three to four times a day can promote drainage and relieve some of the pain. Some doctors suggest an acetic acid soak, using one part warm water and one part vinegar.

If you have pus or an abscess, the infection may need to be incised and drained. In some cases, a portion of the nail may need to be removed.

Bacteria-associated paronychia is most commonly treated with antibiotics such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin. Topical antibiotics or anti-bacterial ointments are not considered an effective treatment.

Chronic paronychia is typically be treated with a topical antifungal medication such as ketoconazole cream. In addition, a mild topical steroid may be used to help reduce inflammation. (Steroids should never be used on their own as they don’t treat the underlying infection.)

Some people tend to have more extensive paronychial infections and may need to be treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics, including those with:

• A compromised immune system, such as from HIV
• Long-term corticosteroid use
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune disease, including psoriasis and lupus
• Poor circulation in the arms or legs

Prevention

You have several options for reducing the risk or severity of a paronychial infection.

• Do not bite nails or trim them too closely.
• Never bite or cut cuticles.
• Ensure that your manicurist always uses sterile instruments.
• Try not to suck fingers.
• Wear waterproof gloves when immersing your hands in detergents, cleaning fluids, or strong chemicals.
• Avoid soaking your hands in water for prolonged periods of time (or, again, use waterproof gloves).
• For cuts and scrapes, wash your hands with antibacterial cleanser and bandage, if necessary.
• Dry your feet thoroughly if they are immersed for long periods of time in unclean water or water containing detergent or chemicals.
• Change your socks regularly and use an over-the-counter foot powder if your feet are prone to sweatiness or excessive moisture.

Complications of manicure and pedicure | Medneil Podiatry Clinic

Cost of treatment of manicure and pedicure disease *

* The scope of services is determined by the doctor individually in each case

Beauty at the expense of health? Alas, going to the salon for such harmless aesthetic procedures as manicure and pedicure can lead to health problems and long-term treatment with a doctor. Of course, troubles arise only in cases of performing services in violation of technology: the instrument is sterilized poorly, the nail and the matrix area are injured, a temperature or chemical burn occurs, etc. But how rare are these situations? Judging by the fact that about 20% of our patients come to us after poor-quality manicure and pedicure, the problem is serious.

The so-called “manicure and pedicure disease” is a complex of pathological conditions associated with:

• Infection with bacteria and fungus
• Mechanical trauma
• Exposure to temperatures and chemical agents

Let’s dwell on each reason in more detail.

Infection

1. Fungal infection of nails and skin. In case of improper sterilization and disinfection of instruments, it is possible to transfer fungus from one client to another.

2. Human papillomavirus (HPV). The emergence of periungual (work with non-sterile nippers and cutters) and plantar (do not change the grinding cap) warts. With existing warts, if they are not handled correctly, they spread to other fingers and toes.

3.Hepatitis B and C virus. Unlikely, but possible. If the master carelessly processes the cuticle, he injures the client and then poorly disinfects and sterilizes the instruments.

Mechanical damage

1. Non-observance of the high-speed mode of operation with cutters, too strong impact on the cuticle and matrix area, “deep manicure”, high abrasiveness of the cutter can lead to detachment of the nail plates from the free edge (onycholysis) or from the matrix (onychomadesis).

2. Cuts in the nail plates can lead to deformation, thickening of nails, nails acquire a rough, uneven, wavy surface, form microtrauma, which leads to secondary infection, both fungal and bacterial.

3. Too deep removal of the cuticle leads to bacterial or candidal paronychia (inflammation of the tissue around the nail), and subsequent damage to the nails.

4. Improper processing of the free edge and lateral edges of the nail contributes to the formation of a tick-shaped nail and ingrowth of nail plates

Chemical and physical exposure

1. Allergic reactions to the coating, degreaser, etc. Occurrence of allergic contact dermatitis, exacerbation of chronic skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema).

2. Direct effect of chemicals on the nail plate – discoloration (yellowness after red varnishes), changes in structure (loss of moisture leads to loss of elasticity and delamination of the nail).Also, chemical exposure can lead to the appearance of granulation of keratin of the nail plates, detachment of the nail from the bed (onycholysis).

3. Physical impact – a burn in an ultraviolet lamp. Reasons: too thick base layer, sawn nails, poor-quality gel polish, use of too powerful UV lamps. It is manifested by onycholysis, hyperkeratosis of the nail bed, a symptom of “subungual splinters” – small strip-like subungual hemorrhages.

The Med & Nail clinic has accumulated vast experience in dealing with the problems of nails and skin of the feet!

We will return you the joy of easy walking and a high quality of life!

Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection)

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90,000 Onycholysis: Internal Causes and Treatment of Nail Detachment

With the modern pace of life, many girls have already forgotten how to do a manicure on their own, relying on nail service masters.And often, when there is any problem with the nail plates (for example, if the nail begins to flake off), the majority blames the master. Although practice shows that often such diseases of the nail plate are infectious in nature or are caused by internal causes and inflammatory processes that arise in the body.

This pathological process mainly occurs on one toe or hands, less often it can affect several fingers at once (especially in the case of internal infections).In 60% of cases, the disease develops as a result of trauma, mechanical damage to the nail or soft tissues of the fingers, in 30% of cases, onycholysis is the result of a more serious disease – chronic dermatomycosis. The remaining 10% are pyoderma, dermatoses and other systemic somatic diseases. Detachment of the nail plate from the bed can occur at any age. In women, onycholysis is most often diagnosed as a result of mechanical injuries resulting from unprofessional manicure or nail care.The disease can affect every person regardless of the season, it has no racial differences, onycholysis is also not endemic, that is, the disease is not limited to any specific area or habitat.

Despite the fact that the disease was first described in 1920, the problem remains relevant today, although most often (especially in the case of the traumatic nature of the nail disease) it is determined only by the aesthetic component, which negatively affects only the quality of life.

Treatment of patients with onycholysis can be effective only with the correct diagnosis, when the doctor is able to establish the etiology of the disease. All therapeutic measures should be taken immediately after the appearance of a detachment. Treatment in 60% of cases will be aimed at restoring the normal state of the nail plate, improving blood supply and eliminating the cause of the disease.

In case of onycholysis, the doctor may prescribe vitamin therapy, angioprotectors, finger massage, as well as other drugs and measures necessary to treat the disease.

In order to understand exactly what onycholysis is, what are the causes of nail disease and how to determine its nature, in order to choose the most effective treatment method, Beauty Hub spoke with a medical specialist who deals with the treatment and prevention of nail diseases.

Expert Olga Mezhenskaya-Tumanova – podologist, author of the scientific direction of hand care palmology, author of intellectual technicians in manicure and pedicure, head of the International research project “Age of Beauty “, A judge of manicure and pedicure of international class.

Let’s focus on internal and infectious causes of nail detachment, as well as recommendations for the treatment of onycholysis.

Onycholysis (nail detachment) is the most common type of onychodystrophy, which is characterized by a violation of the connection between the nail plate and the bed while maintaining the matrix. Clinically, this problem is manifested by the inability of the nail to adhere to the nail bed, which forms a “pocket”. This problem is acquired and can affect one or more fingers or toes.It is especially common on the thumb.

With non-infectious onycholysis, the nail does not change its consistency and color, it simply peels off the bed. But with a lesion of an infectious nature, the nail plate turns a little yellow and becomes cloudy, becomes more rough.

To diagnose a disease of the nail plate, it is imperative to take a scraping from the lesion on the fungi. This will help exclude somatic pathologies.

Treatment for onycholysis is long-term and will include a number of therapeutic and prophylactic measures to improve the foci of chronic infection.Also, the treatment of nail detachment may include vitamin therapy and the use of mineral preparations.

But in order to treat nail disease, it is important to determine the causes of its occurrence.

Infectious causes of onycholysis

The most common infection causing detachment of the nail from the bed is mycosis (fungal infection). In this case, as a result of injury, active fungal spores enter the subungual space. The nail begins to flake off the bed.A distinctive feature of mycosis is that most often the detachment has uneven edges. The peel line looks more like a zigzag, rather than a clear, straight line like mechanical peel.

Attention!

Onycholysis

Subsequently, the color can also change: the nail from the free edge becomes yellow or brown. Often such nails change their structure, they can be loose, crumbly. The fungal infection also gives an unpleasant smell of decomposition from the nails.If you suspect a fungal infection in yourself or a client, do not diagnose yourself or prescribe treatment yourself. A large number of reasons that are not fungal in nature can cause this nail pathology, as can be seen from this article. Only a doctor and only after analysis can diagnose and prescribe treatment. At the same time, it is still better to check any onycholysis for the presence of a fungal infection.

Another infectious cause of onycholysis is warts (human papillomavirus).Occurs on nails of hands and feet, on single fingers. In my experience, fingers are more likely to be affected. When faced with nail delamination from the bed, always consider the space under the nail. If you notice a bump that lifts your nail, it is most likely a subungual wart. A bacterial infection has similar symptoms, which can get under the nail along with a splinter. Then the bump under the nail will be bright red. In all these cases, only a doctor provides assistance.The master of the nail service can remove the nail at the place of detachment and drip a disinfectant at the maximum, but in no case should the soft tissues of the finger be touched.

Remember: any onycholysis can cause infection. The “pocket” under the nail is a warm and comfortable place for the development of various pathogenic microbes. Therefore, in any case, there must be prevention.

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Internal causes of onycholysis

Finding the internal disease that triggered the detachment of the nail is the hardest thing.In this case, we can only guess. But still, let’s see what internal systemic diseases can cause onycholysis. Pay attention to the word “system”. In this case, many nails will be changed and over a long time.

Onycholysis plus yellowness of the distal part of the nail (the nail from the free edge) are characteristic of systemic liver diseases.

Attention!

Onycholysis

Three of my clients have several fingernails with “pockets” and are colored yellow from the free edge.Repeated tests for infection showed nothing. But everyone had hepatitis in childhood. This means that there are liver lesions.

Other internal causes of onycholysis are very diverse. With a lack of some useful trace elements in the diet , for example, nail detachment may have a dull white coloration and black blotches on the nail bed.

Attention!

Onycholysis

Chronic diseases that can cause onycholysis include cardiovascular diseases, damage to the nervous and endocrine systems, and the gastrointestinal tract.In this case, the mechanism of onycholysis formation is unclear. Also, onycholysis can occur after the use of a serious course of antibiotics.

Onycholysis can also accompany skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis . For example, onycholysis can occur as an allergic reaction to artificial turf. But then it will be accompanied by reddening of the lateral ridges, itching and burning.

How to Treat Onycholysis – Tips for Fighting Nail Detachment

1. Confidence. Check that the pathology is not infectious. To do this, visit a dermatologist and take a piece of the nail for analysis. For absolute certainty, the analysis must be done three times.
2. Protection. Protect your nails from possible infection. Use antifungal and antiseptic oils as a preventive measure. These products can be purchased from professional pedicure lines. Preparations based on lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, thuja oils are suitable. Always use such preparations after completing a manicure and pedicure procedure, even if your nails are healthy.And whenever you hurt your nails.
3. Growth stimulation. In case of mechanical damage, it is logical to stimulate the growth of the nail. Use Moisturizing Cuticle Oil and Nails. The professional protective oils mentioned in point 2 usually also have a growth stimulating effect. A simple nail mask can be used as active stimulation. In a small amount of hand cream, add the red pepper on the tip of a knife. Apply to the first knuckle.Do this mask 1-2 times a week. Another simple and working recipe is natural wax thimbles. Melt the wax to 40 degrees. Dip your fingertips. Do not remove the thimbles for an hour and a half. On the skin of the fingers, you can first apply oil or hand cream.
4. Correction. The part of the nail plate, peeled from the bed, is removed and artificial material is applied. The point is that in this case, due to the pressure of the coating, the nail can quickly adhere to the bed.Acrylates or gels can be used. The most practical are special pedicure acrylics, systems “Onyholit” and “Ungizan”. This technique should not be used in the presence of infections. Therefore, you first need to make sure your nails are healthy.
5. Caution. The space under the nail is often clogged with subungual deposits and dirt. In order not to tear off the nail plate even more, “pockets” must be cleaned very carefully, no more than 1-2 times a month. It is better to entrust this to professionals.In some cases, it is better not to use a metal tool, but to rinse the space under the nail with an antiseptic under high pressure, for example, by typing a certain amount of antiseptic into a syringe without a needle.

Important to know about nail peeling

As a result, for example, mechanical action separates the nail from the bed. The bed has irregularities and roughness, which are repeated by the pattern of the nail inside. Due to this, the nail is attached to the stock, but this is a very conditional connection.When we often clean the area under the nail, the hooks on the stock break down like old Velcro on clothes. More “fresh”, recent onycholysis is easier to correct, because the drawing of the bed has not yet been changed. If onycholysis is more than a year old, then the predictions that it will be possible to get rid of it are minimal.

According to statistics, it is possible to finally get rid of onycholysis in 20-30% of cases. And this percentage is low more often because there is a constant mechanical load or infection, or time wasted.But this does not mean that you need to give up. There is always a chance! Need to try. Only then will the masters of nail service and clients be able to boast of beautiful, well-groomed nails, without “pockets”.

Find out from the video on our channel, is it worth trimming the cuticles on the nails? What is important to know and what to look for before visiting a trim manicure in the salon. Victoria Kolodiy, the creator of the MVK nail service salon, spoke about this Beauty Hub TV .

You can find more information on onycholysis on the PRO Nails online resource for manicure, pedicure and podiatrists.

For more beauty and health content from industry experts and leaders, visit the Beauty HUB homepage. Subscribe to our Telegram and do not miss the most useful materials from Beauty HUB!

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Diseases of the nails: causes, types and prevention

Now you can turn to the main diseases of the nails.

Non-fungal nail diseases

There are many such diseases, but the following types are the most common.

Leukonechia

The nail becomes dull white. And the main reason for this is psoriasis. Also, long-term use of low-quality varnish.

Onycholysis

The nail first turns white, and then the nail plate exfoliates from the nail bed. Causes: psoriasis, trauma.

Melanonychia

Nails turn black. The disease appears due to trauma or swelling of the nail bed.

Hyperkeratosis

The nail bed gradually thickens due to the development of psoriasis, lichen planus, eczema and dermatitis.

Chromonychia

Nails turn yellow. Occurs due to age, drugs, poor circulation, smoking, cheap nail polishes, liver disease, poor quality detergents.

Paronychia

It is caused by allergies or infections, and the periungual fold becomes inflamed.

Grooves on nails

Grooves can be transverse or longitudinal. They arise due to malnutrition, lack of vitamins, anemia, stomach problems, as well as due to poor-quality manicure and pedicure and nail injury.

Delamination of nails

There are many reasons: lack of calcium, diseases of the heart and endocrine system, the use of very hard nail files and improper nail treatment.

Other nail diseases

Other diseases include those associated with an improper lifestyle, that is, mainly household injuries and minor diseases.

Discoloration of nails

Causes: anemia, smoking, general deterioration of health, cheap varnish.What to do? Wait for the nail to grow back and continue to avoid cheap varnishes from unknown manufacturers, which are absorbed into the nail plate and are not removed.

Bitten nails

This is not a disease, but just a bad habit. But it also leads to the destruction of the nail plate. To get rid of the addiction, you can smear your fingertips with pepper and do a manicure as often as possible.

Yellow nails for smokers

Nails are even brown and not just yellow.They can be bleached with hydrogen peroxide or you can ask a specialist for help.

Serrated nails

Causes: Injury. But the defect is covered with varnish or sanded with pumice powder.

Hypertrophy

This is a thickening of the nail that can hardly be called normal. The cause is usually a local infection.

Atrophy

It’s the other way around – abnormal thinning of the nail. It becomes not only thin, but also white, easily bendable. The nail plate is bent and separated from the nail bed.Reason: chronic illness.

Onychotrophy

Cause: trauma, illness. Consequences: the disappearance of shine, peeling of nails.

Pterygium

In this case, the cuticle is attached to the nail and grows forward. It must be carefully removed and greased with almond oil.

Hanging nail

The nail just cracks at the base. Reasons: dry cuticles, deep cutting, sloppy manicure. Possible consequences: infections.

Bruised nail

Dark purple or almost black spots are characteristic.The reason for its appearance: injury and bleeding in the nail bed. The blood dries out and does not come loose. Excessive pressure should be avoided as the nail may flake off.

Ingrown toenail

Quite a popular problem arising from improper manicure. For example, if the nails did not have time to grow back and they were cut off at the sides. As a result, it turns out that the nail grows into the lateral ridges, instead of growing straight. This leads to inflammation. If the case is severe and neglected, then it is necessary to resort to an operation performed under local anesthesia.If this is noticed at the initial stage, then finger massage can help.

Burrs

Burrs are the result of careless handling and improper care. They cannot be torn off and nibbled. You can get an infection. You need to carefully cut them off with small scissors, lubricate the place with iodine. Burrs are not a nail disease, but, nevertheless, they should not be left unattended. This is a kind of corneal tear. Causes of appearance: the use of irritants and poor hygiene.Their danger lies in the fact that they are conductors of infection, which leads to inflammation of the periungual fold. It is for this reason that they must be removed, but in no case cut off, so as not to form open wounds, which become the site of infection.

Fungal diseases

These are more serious infectious diseases that must be treated immediately.

Cuticle | Nail service

Nail cuticle

Nail cuticle is a dense leathery cushion that surrounds the nail plate at the bottom of the nail.From time to time, the cuticle becomes very sensitive, causing a lot of trouble. It is this part of the hands, or rather the nails, that treacherously betrays superficial care for them.

Cuticle has a protective function, preventing foreign bodies and bacteria from entering the growth zone of the nail. The cuticle edge is dead cells. Drying and then flaking off, it gives rise to burrs.

On the sides, the nail is surrounded by skin ridges. The skin can dry out here, resulting in burrs as well.The cuticle hermetically seals the nail bed and matrix from air and water. Through the matrix and cuticle, the nail is nourished, so any damage to them leads to weakening and even disease of the nail. Also cuticle acts as a natural skin barrier that protects the nail from injury and infection. Care for the cuticle should be very careful, since its incorrect removal injures the nail plate, gives rise to the appearance of irregularities on it and leads to the appearance of burrs.

Inflammation of the cuticle

Inflammation of the cuticle may result from exposure to household chemicals or poor quality nail polish. Itching and blisters around the cuticle or nail plate are the result of the negative effects of methyl methacrylate (MMA), which can be found in uncertified or low quality nail extension materials. MMA is a prohibited ingredient and can lead to the manifestation of allergic reactions (harm from nail extension), various infections and even the complete loss of the nail plate! Therefore, always use only proven materials for nail extension that have an appropriate quality certificate and purchased from authorized dealers. Cuticle , prone to inflammation and burrs, as well as sensitive to household chemicals, varnishes and creams, is called problematic. However, the main cause of these problems often lies not in external influences, but in improper and irregular care.

When carrying out a manicure using metal tools – spatulas, scissors, etc., infection is possible and, as a result, cuticle inflammation . In addition, when cutting it, it should be remembered that the new skin that has appeared instead of the old one will grow faster, become denser and coarser.This cuticle is prone to cracking and burrs and is called excessive cuticle.

It is also important to consider that not all of the skin around the nail must be removed. Cuticle can be “alive” and “lifeless”. “Unliving” becomes “glassy” when soaked and can be easily removed. It is not recommended to touch the “live” cuticle – a thin film tightly pressed to the nail, even if it grows intensively. This natural barrier serves to protect the nail from infection. It is necessary to ensure that the cuticle is soft and smooth all the time, otherwise it may build up on the nail plate.If the cuticle is too stiff , it attaches tightly to the nail plate and stretches upward with it as the nail grows.

Such “inhibition” is fraught with the formation of grooves and irregularities on the surface of the nail. In addition, the excess cuticle that has grown on the nail stretches and breaks over time, which leads to the formation of burrs. Infection often penetrates into the cuticle break, redness and swelling may appear. Self-removal of “extra” skin is dangerous – cuticle becomes inflamed and swells.Therefore, it is important to warn your clients against solving such problems on their own and recommend doing a professional manicure in the salon at least once a month.

Cuticle care

Today salons offer a variety of hygienic (or cosmetic) manicure. One of the latest innovations is a salt manicure. This procedure is especially useful for cuticle . To complete it, you will need a product containing oils and salts from the Dead Sea. Salts act as exfoliators, while oil protects and moisturizes the cuticle.Hands are disinfected with a cleaner, the product is applied and the massage is done first with dry hands and then with wet hands. Moisture dissolves the salt for a gentle exfoliation. Dead cells are exfoliated, pores open and oil penetrates deeply into the skin. You can also use a bath tonic with an antiseptic and tonic effect in the procedure. After that, gloves are put on the hands for a short time. Then a massage is performed with a cream containing oil or massage oil. Thanks to this procedure, the skin around the nails is well moisturized, becomes elastic and even.

It is also possible to offer the client a classic edged manicure, an unedged (European or hardware) version, as well as a spa manicure.

For healthy and well-groomed cuticles unedged manicure is preferable. It is also necessary if the nail plate is very soft and can be easily damaged with a cutting tool. The main advantage and distinctive feature of European manicure is the removal of the skin without the use of tweezers or scissors. A special preparation is applied to the cuticle, which includes lactic and fruit acids.

Cuticle removal with an orange tree stick

After a few minutes, dead skin cells are removed with an orange tree stick (sometimes the craftsman additionally uses a thin pencil-like pumice stone). But if there are cuticle problems – cracks or burrs, European manicure will not help. In this case, it is better to dwell on the classic edged version. Its supporters are sure that only this type of manicure provides a quick and high-quality result that cannot be achieved in any other way.

Spa manicure involves, above all, gentle and comprehensive hand care, thanks to which the skin and nails become healthy. In addition, the effect of this procedure lasts longer. Despite the fact that there are no uniform rules for conducting spa manicure, it is usually a complex of measures, including moisturizing and softening the hands, effective gentle exfoliation, as well as nourishing the skin with natural substances (for example, vitamin E, aloe vera, ceramides) …Thermal gloves, aromatic herbal bags, linen towels, and various masks can also be used in this procedure.

Read about the peculiarities of processing the cuticle on the toes in the article Hardware pedicure.

Cuticle care at home

In between visits to the manicure master, the client can independently maintain cuticles in good condition – Kiev manicure courses. But first you need to warn him against possible mistakes and give some recommendations.

• When gardening without gloves and a layer of protective cream, the delicate cuticle is particularly affected: it dehydrates, cracks, and burrs appear. The same problem threatens those who are addicted to sunbathing, sea and hot sand.

• At home, it is better to refrain from trimming manicure and using rough metal tools for cuticle removal . Otherwise, there is a risk of pushing the growth zone at the base of the nail, as a result of which it will grow uneven and exfoliate.

• When using regular hand cream, do not forget about the cuticle, rubbing it well into the skin.

Cuticle care products

To make your nails look beautiful and well-groomed, it is not enough just to remove the keratinized skin. It is necessary that cuticle is soft, elastic and tight to the nail. There are many drugs for this: oils, liquids, gels. They not only nourish, soften and moisturize the skin around the nail, but also open up access to nutrients and oxygen, improving the structure of the nail plate and strengthening it.Rubbing such a tool, you saturate the cuticle with useful substances, strengthen it and at the same time perform massaging movements, activating the blood circulation in the nail bed, eliminating irregularities and small burrs.

It is very good to pre-use a cream that performs the function of micro-peeling. It exfoliates dead cells, making it easier for nutrients to penetrate deep into the skin. Another modern invention is the natural cuticle remover in the form of a convenient compact capillary pencil that quickly softens and cares for the cuticle.

Orange tree manicure sticks are a handy tool for shifting and correcting the cuticle. It is quite dense and lifts the skin well, at the same time it does not damage it and does not leave any burrs. Before using a stick, you need to apply a few drops of a softener to the cuticle (this type of preparation is usually called a cuticle remover). These products usually contain natural ingredients such as fruit acids, vitamins and aloe extract.All this helps to achieve a natural and high quality result. In addition to their main function – softening the cuticle , some preparations also have a wound healing and soothing effect.

Onycholysis. What to do? | imkosmetik magazine

Onycholysis is called detachment of the nail plate from the bed – the connection of the nail plate with the soft tissues of the nail bed is disrupted. In this article, we will take a closer look at what types of diseases are, and how to deal with them.

Types of onycholysis

Depending on the size of the detached part of the nail, partial and total onycholysis are distinguished.

Causes

Local causes

These factors are the most common, since, to a greater extent, the occurrence of onycholysis is associated with inaccurate wearing of nails.

The first and main ones are domestic injuries. Most often, these are blows with the nail plates on objects, which cause not only total onycholysis, but also dark-colored hematomas directly on the nail itself.

The second most popular are nail bed burns. Onycholysis also occurs due to long-term use without gloves with highly acidic chemicals.

Often, onycholysis occurs due to improper self-removal of artificial nails or gel polish, or due to incorrect processing of the nail plate (lateral or lateral onycholysis).

Chemical exposure (allergic reactions)

Sometimes onycholysis can occur due to prolonged contact with:

– water

-alkalis

– bleaching agents

– gasoline

– with solvents

– concentrated salt solutions

Many people have different reactions to all these drugs, often allergies can cause not only onycholysis, but also swelling of the skin of the hands.

Infections: viral, bacterial, fungal

One of the rarest, but still encountered, causes of onycholysis. In this case, the detachment is caused by the Coxsackie virus.

What should a master do?

If you are a master and have met with onycholysis at clients, do not rush to blame yourself, although, for greater confidence, you can offer the client hygienic treatment of nails and feet.

Regarding professional products, during manicure, or as an advice to the client, you can use Inki Regenerating Nail Care Gel.

It helps to quickly restore the thickness and length of the nail plate, which has already undergone onycholysis.

In addition, the use of special means to protect the nail bed will be an effective tool for your clients:

• ready-made orthoses (textile)
• breathable bandages
• prosthetics (if there are no contraindications)

but, if less than ⅓ of the nail bed is open, you do not need to cover it with protective materials, in other cases, protection is necessary.

Treatment of onycholysis

The most reliable way is to consult a dermatologist and endocrinologist (which we recommend first of all), but now we will consider ways of self-prophylaxis at home.

Vitamin and mineral complexes

• B vitamins (affect metabolism and nerve endings)
• Antioxidants A, E, C, beta-carotene (stimulates regeneration processes)
• Macro and microelements (calcium, zinc, sulfur, copper, iron – increase the strength of nails, have an anti-inflammatory effect)
• Probiotics and prebiotics (normalize the digestive tract, increase the body’s immune status)
• Gelatin solutions (therapeutic applications to restore the structure of the nail)

Local preparations

Trays

1. Sea salt 1 tbsp.l. + olive oil 1 tablespoon + 1 tbsp lemon juice + a glass of water
2. Gelatin + water
3. Coniferous water + chamomile + gelatin (mix everything in equal proportions)

2-3 times a week for 15 minutes

In some cases, nail prosthetics can be done in the salon, but you should be aware of the contraindications to this procedure:

• child age
• open wounds
• diabetes mellitus
• Allergic reactions to material
• professional sports

Home Care Tips

Finally, here are a couple of tips for keeping your nails healthy:

1. Use growth stimulants
2. Weekly shorten the length with a file
3. Massage the sprout area 2 times a day
4. do not overload the nail plate
5. use the trays

90,000 functions and care tips Cuticle inflammation after treatment

Paronychia (inflammation of the cuticle of the nail) without treatment can lead to tissue infection and abscess.The disease has acute and chronic forms. It is accompanied by pain, swelling, redness of the periungual tissue, and itching. At home, the disease is treated if it is mild. In severe cases, you need to see a doctor.

What does inflammation look like?

The disease affects the area under or around the nail. Paronychia symptoms:

• throbbing pain;
• redness;
• an increase in temperature around the nail bed;

90,043 edema;

• A collection of pus under the skin or nail.

Forms of the disease:

1. Sharp. A painful, swollen area suddenly forms around the fingers. Redness occurs in this place. The affected area is hot to the touch.
2. Chronic. The disease develops slowly. It is manifested by gradual swelling and redness of the skin around the nails. It hurts to touch the affected area. The infection often affects multiple fingers on one hand. Chronic paronychia can cause the nail to separate from the skin.Its plate can also deform.

Inflammation of the cuticle is treated at home or under medical supervision. You can cope with the problem on your own if the disease is mild.
In severe cases, consult a doctor. A specialist may prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal medication. With chronic under the supervision of a physician.

The hospital should be contacted in the following cases:

• fever;
• the presence of diabetes;
• Redness spreading to the top of the toe;
• accumulation of pus near or under the nail;
• persistence of symptoms for more than 7 days.

If correct, it takes 5-10 days. It can take several weeks to combat the chronic form of the disease.

Causes of the painful process

Inflammation of the cuticle occurs due to fungal infections and pathogenic bacteria (microbes can enter the nail bed through wounds). The most common pathogens are staphylococci, streptococci, gram-negative organisms.

Causes of the disease:

1. Tissue damage.Cuts and tears in the skin around the nail can occur from overly aggressive grooming. In some cases, the infection develops after a manicure.
2. Bad habits. At risk are people who bite nails and burrs. The disease also develops in children who are used to sucking fingers.
3. High humidity and chemical contact. In addition to tissue damage, the main reasons for the development of paronychia include constant interaction with water and skin irritants. At risk are cleaners, housekeepers, hairdressers, restaurant workers.
4. Diabetes.
5. Weakening of the immune system.

How to relieve inflammation at home

Treatment of cuticle inflammation can be done in different ways. The therapy regimen is selected taking into account the form and severity of the disease. Acute paronychia is eliminated using the following methods:

1. Warm baths. They are made at home with a mild course of the disease 3-4 times a day for 15 minutes. After the procedure, you need to wipe the area of ​​the inflamed finger and nail dry.Warm water improves blood circulation and speeds up the healing process. Baths help reduce swelling and discomfort. Chamomile tea can be considered as an alternative to water. It has anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties.
2. Aloe. In case of inflammation, it is recommended to use the leaf of the plant. The lower part is cut off from him, and then the pulp is applied to the sore spot. Aloe eliminates inflammation and draws out pus. For better fixation of the sheet, you can wrap your finger with a bandage.
3. Medicines. You can treat inflammation with the help of special ointments – Levomekol, Baneocin, Eplan.

Do not use cosmetic products for nails during treatment, because they are irritating. It is not recommended to apply varnish, hardener, base and other similar products.

How to hedge against inflammation

Even with proper treatment, relapse may occur. Cuticle inflammation can be prevented with proper hand care.It includes 2 stages:

1. Cleansing. It is recommended to do soap baths every 2-3 days. The procedure should last at least 10 minutes.
2. Humidification. The skin around the nail should be lubricated daily with cuticle oil. Almond, jojoba or any other, say, damask rose will do. Another effective remedy is natural wax. It helps prevent dryness and cracking of the skin.

To prevent the development of the disease, it is required to adhere to the following recommendations.

1. Use of protective equipment. Rubber gloves with absorbent cotton lining should be worn if hands are exposed to water and harsh household chemicals.
2. Gentle manicure. Experts recommend trimming the periungual tissue, even if there are burrs, only after steaming the skin. After the procedure, the area around the nail bed should be treated with antiseptics – hydrogen peroxide or Chlorhexidine.
3. Quitting bad habits.Stop biting your nails and burrs.
4. If you have diabetes, you should keep your blood sugar levels within the normal range, diet, and take the necessary medications.
5. Timely treatment of wounds. The skin damaged on the finger must be disinfected immediately. To do this, treat the wound with iodine, Chlorhexidine, or alcohol. This will help reduce the risk of purulent cuticle inflammation.

To prevent relapse, hands should be thoroughly dried after washing to keep them completely dry.Then a moisturizer should be applied. It is also necessary to monitor the condition of the skin in cold weather. It should not dry out and weathered.

The proximal cushion or cuticle is a skin that is located in the lower part of the nail plate and consists of a dense epithelial cushion, which is a natural continuation of the matrix that protects the nail growth zone from the effects of various chemical compounds and pathogens (eponychia), growing into a thin one that grows together with the nail a leathery film of dead cells (pterygium).

When dry and improper care, the skin cracks, exfoliation and tears of the epidermis – burrs are formed, which causes pain and discomfort. The cuticle requires special attention, in order to prevent problems, you should carefully look after your nails. There is a lot of controversy about whether it is necessary to remove the cuticle or not.

In any case, it should be understood that when making a manicure, one cannot not only cut off, but also injure eponychium, which is a living tissue and performs the following functions:

1. Barrier
   .The leathery periungual roller prevents damaging factors (air, water, household chemicals, bacteria, fungi) from entering the root zone of the nail (matrix), thereby preventing the occurrence of infection and inflammation, as well as deformation of the nail.
2. Nutrient
   . Through the capillaries located in the eponychium, the nail is provided with all the necessary nutrients, nutrients and trace elements, and is also enriched with oxygen.

It is necessary to remove or displace the pterygium, a stratum corneum, which, with insufficient care, can not only become the main cause of the formation of burrs and damage to the periungual living tissues, but, with strong growth, makes it difficult to feed the nail plate and makes the hand look untidy.

Tools

The choice of care method largely depends on the type of cuticle:

• Eponychium smoothly passes into pterygium, the dividing furrow or line is completely absent. The edge of the skin is dense, resilient, elastic, strongly fused with the nail plate, it is difficult to lift and shift. A trim manicure in this case is not desirable, since due to the absence of a visible dividing line, living tissue is often damaged in the form of cuts and cracks. To carefully cut such a cuticle, you need to use nail scissors with rounded ends and leave a little of the shifted epithelium uncut.
• Thin film on the nail, well below the periungual ridge, with a distinct dividing groove. It lends itself well to softening with keratolytic agents and removal with a curette or trimmer.
• Rigid, coarse cuticle protruding above the epithelial ridge, often with cracks and burrs. To remove it, use nippers – scissors. On the forum of manicure specialists there is information that this type of skin can be lubricated in the intervals between circumcision with flexitol balm, which helps to soften it.

Cuticle Removal: Basic Tools and the Best Removal Tool

Cuticle removal is one of the most important stages of manicure, without which it is impossible to bring the pens into a neat and well-groomed state.

In addition, this procedure stimulates the normal growth of nails, prevents the ingrowth of the skin into the nail bed, as well as tears, cracking, and the formation of burrs on the fingers.

There are two types of cuticle removal: cutting or pulling.The first option is a distinctive feature of edged or classic manicure, the second is European. Both methods of nail care can be performed at home or in the salon, but nevertheless, it is better to entrust the edging option to a specialist.

Trim manicure includes:

1. Preparatory stage before removal of the periungual dead layer of the epithelium. The hands should be immersed for 15 – 20 minutes in warm water, to which you can add a few drops of essential oil or a little olive oil.Grapefruit nail oil will help strengthen nails and give them the lost shine, lemon oil will whiten the nail plate, jojoba will moisturize the skin of the hands, and tea tree will relieve inflammation and have a disinfectant and protective effect.
2. Then you should gently dry your hands with a soft cloth or towel. An alternative to the bath is the application of a special cuticle softener – keratolytic.
3. Carefully using a pusher, the peel is separated from the nail surface and lifted as much as possible.The epidermis should peel off easily and do not press or scratch too hard.
4. The so-called cuticle remover is chosen depending on the type of cuticle and ease of use. These can be nail clippers, a trimmer, or special nippers. The very manipulation of circumcision should be carried out slowly, with smooth cutting movements, trying not to hook the living tissue of the nail roller. Ideally, there should be no cuts or blood. After the procedure, it is imperative to apply an emollient cuticle oil to the cut site, which will not only prevent drying out, but will also perform a protective function.
5. After the procedure, the cuticle instrument must be sterilized, treated with an antiseptic or ultraviolet rays. This will prevent not only suppuration of the finger, but also the penetration into the body of such dangerous infections as HIV and hepatitis C.

A special feature of European manicure is the use of a special chemical preparation. The best cuticle remover, the safest and most effective for home use is a fruit acid gel, available in a bottle with a brush.

1. The product must be applied to the skin for 3 – 5 minutes (no more than three marigolds are treated at the same time).
2. Then, with an orange stick, the keratinized softened tissues along with the remnants of the preparation are gently shifted.
3. The procedure is repeated for all fingers. After that, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.

To make the cuticle grow more slowly, it is recommended to rub a special Avoplex or any vegetable oil into the skin at the base of the nail every day.After softening the epithelial tissue, it should be moved with an orange stick or a pusher.

Regular use of this method allows you to maintain a beautiful, well-groomed appearance of the nail for a longer period.

European manicure also slows down the regrowth of pterygium, and if you do it every 2 weeks and during the period between procedures daily soften and push back the skin, you can do without a trim manicure altogether.

Funds

Very dry cuticles require special care.The following tips will help prevent and fix the problem:

1. The area around the nail needs regular peeling
   . Exfoliating dead epidermis should be done with a ready-made cosmetic scrub designed specifically for this area. You can also make a gentle exfoliator at home. To do this, you need to take in equal proportions olive oil, water and sugar. Mix thoroughly and apply to the skin around the nail plate.After that, the product is carefully washed off with warm water, the fingers are dried with a napkin.
2. Applying cream on hands and around nails
   , including must be a mandatory daily procedure. It is recommended to do this at least twice a day, and if hands are often in the water or encounter damaging factors, then much more often. A cream should be chosen specifically for dry skin. The main condition is the presence in its composition of natural essential oils of geranium, grapefruit, lavender, glycerin and vitamins A and E.
3. Moisturizing masks and baths should be used periodically
   (at least once a week), and daily for very dry skin. For this purpose, vegetable oils, honey, chopped aloe leaf are suitable. A composition made from 1 teaspoon of apricot oil and 4 teaspoons of lanolin, mixed until smooth in a water bath, has magical properties; with the addition of 2-3 drops of essential oil.
4. Observing all of the above rules
   , you can become the owner of a gorgeous manicure, a photo of which will become an adornment of any fashion magazine.

Cuticle care at home: how to care correctly

Caring for cuticles at home is convenient to carry out using a special stick made of orange wood. This is the tool used by adherents of European manicure.

This material has an optimal combination of density and softness, which prevents injury to the delicate skin around the nail. The robust structure prevents the device from delamination and eliminates the likelihood of a splinter.In addition, wood has pronounced antiseptic properties.

The cuticle stick has a pointed edge on one side and flat on the other. You can return the required shape to the tool using a conventional abrasive file.

In a beauty salon, the stick can be used only once, after which it is thrown away, since it cannot be disinfected.

The main purpose of the tool is to remove the cuticle. After preliminary softening of the keratinized epithelial layer on the surface of the nail, using the flat end of an orange stick, gently pry the skin off, separate it from the nail plate, and then carefully move it.After that, the dead cells of the epithelium can be removed with a sharp edge.

In addition, the stick is used for:

• Cleansing the free edge of the nail from contamination;
• application of rhinestones, applique elements, sequins, as well as for painting with varnish;
• Removing softened acrylic, sticking tips, molding a nail with gel and acrylic extensions.

In order for nails to look attractive, it is necessary to correctly answer the question of how to care for the cuticle.The method must match its type and state.

The thin, delicate skin at the bottom of the nail should be handled very carefully, as there is an increased risk of injury.

To remove it, it is better to use a biological method, which consists in softening the epithelial tissue using a special chemical preparation. With the help of an orange stick, you need to separate the cuticle from the nail, then apply the removal gel for 0.5 – 1 minute (if there are no other instructions in the instructions).You can remove dead cells of the epithelium with a cotton swab.

Tougher cuticles, after softening, can be tasted with the flat edge of an orange stick, pusher or trimmer.
To soften this type of skin, apply a special cuticle care product or any vegetable oil daily in the morning and in the evening. This will not only increase the elasticity of the epithelium, but also slow down its growth on the nail.

Thick, keratinized cuticles are the hardest to deal with.To remove it, forceps or nippers are usually used, and a keratolytic is used to pre-soften the skin. Sometimes, in order to bring the periungual roller to the desired state, a salt-soda or oil bath is required, into which the fingers are dipped for 20-30 minutes.

Caring for the cuticle should not only consist in removing or moving it, but also in a daily careful attitude: regular application of cream to the periungual area, proper nutrition, and protecting hands from aggressive substances with gloves.This is the only way to prevent the formation of burrs, the appearance of microcracks and inflammations.

Inflammation of the cuticle and methods of its treatment

The following symptoms indicate that the periungual roller is inflamed: redness, pain, swelling, increased sensitivity. In more severe cases, paronychia or panaritium, which are accompanied by purulent discharge, twitching, tingling.

Most often, the main cause of the pathological process is:

• Burr that has not been removed correctly
• too thin and easily injured or dry and coarse, prone to cracking of the cuticle;
• the use of untreated manicure instruments;
• some diseases, including fungal infections of the nail, allergic dermatitis;
• various injuries (bruise, cut, etc.)etc.).

Inflammation of the cuticle treatment depends on its cause and the severity of the symptoms of the disease.

If the tissues around the nail just turn red, there is no pus, then it will be enough to treat the affected area with an antiseptic solution (Iodditserin or Fukortsin), carefully beforehand, under the root, cutting off the burrs, if any. If necessary, the place of damage can be sealed with a bactericidal plaster. If there is any disease causing the problem, the root cause of the inflammation should be treated first.It is better not to self-medicate and consult a specialist.

Getting rid of athlete’s foot or allergies is not as easy as advertisements promise. The doctor usually prescribes antifungal or antiallergic drugs for internal and external use at the same time. A positive result of therapy is possible only with strict adherence to all recommendations.

If the inflammation has taken a more serious turn, purulent discharge has appeared; treatment of the cuticle at home is practically impossible.In most cases, surgical intervention is required, which is aimed at opening the abscess.

After that, the wound is well washed with antiseptics (hydrogen peroxide, Chlorhexidine bigluconate or Miramistin). If the wound is deep, it is drained to drain the secretions. Then a bandage is applied with a bactericidal ointment, it is better if, in addition to the antibiotic, it contains a substance that stimulates tissue regeneration (Levomekol, Levosin). Dressings should be done under the supervision of a doctor 1 – 2 times a day, until complete healing.In case of damage to the deep layers of tissues or in the absence of the effect of local therapy, antibiotics are prescribed by mouth or in the form of injections (Levomycetin, Cephalexin).

If the cause of constant inflammation of the cuticle is its condition, then you should pay attention to measures that will restore it. Necessary:

1. Balance the daily diet, include in its composition all the components necessary for the normal formation of the skin.
2. Do manicure regularly, and follow all the rules of a high-quality procedure.
3. Apply a good moisturizer to your hands frequently (at least 2 times a day).
4. Drink enough fluids throughout the day.
5. Always use protective gloves when working in the garden and vegetable garden, in contact with household chemicals.
6. At night, smear the skin around the nail with olive oil and wear cotton gloves.
7. Drink vitamin complexes containing retinol, tocopherol, biotin and some other nutrients.

Of course, this unpleasant process has its own reasons.Therefore, first of all, let’s talk about them in order to prevent the occurrence of inflammation.

Causes of cuticle inflammation

First of all, you should determine the causes of the appearance of inflammation, and only then decide how to treat the cuticle.

Consequences of manicure.
Very often, during an independent manicure or as a result of the work of a master, the cuticle of the nail is damaged: poorly processed cuticle, non-sterile instruments or mechanical damage. After a small abscess appears, which can soon heal on its own.

Lack of hand care.
An especially topical issue in winter, when hands require increased attention and cuticle care. If the skin is very dry, it is more susceptible to infection with various kinds of fungal diseases.

Allergy.
Swelling and redness can signal an allergic reaction in your body. For example, contact of a finger with an irritant could occur, as a result of which swelling and irritation appear.

How to fix the situation at home?

It is not necessary to immediately run to the doctor to correct the situation, you can try to do it yourself. We will tell you how.

Creams with aloe or aloe juice.
Aloe is an amazing anti-inflammatory agent that helps to calm inflammation and relieve redness / irritation. Anoint with a special cream or simply squeeze aloe juice onto the affected area and cover with a plaster.

Oils. Oil of orange, apricot kernel, tea tree or calendula will also help relieve inflammation and speed up the healing process of the cuticle. The main thing is to process the site regularly.

Antifungal agents.
If the cause is still a fungus, then you cannot do without agents against harmful microorganisms of a wide range. In pharmacies, a lot of various gels, ointments, creams and drops against the fungus are sold. However, in order not to self-medicate, it is still better to consult a dermatologist who will help to cope with this problem faster.

Cuticle Care: How to Prevent Damage

• Have a manicure done only by a qualified technician
• Increase immunity in order to avoid the appearance of fungal diseases
• Treat any lesions with an antiseptic
• Do all household chores with gloves

Take care of your health and take care of your hands. They will thank you for their softness and radiance!

Inflammation of the cuticle and redness around the nail can occur for a variety of reasons.This problem can be the result of an infected hangnail or cuticle damage during a manicure. Often, the periungual roller becomes inflamed due to bacteria entering the nail growth zone. Sometimes the cuticle breaks due to the introduction of a fungal infection.

Redness of the skin near the nail can be associated with the abuse of varnishes and their removers, and it can also occur as an allergic reaction to washing or cleaning powder, dishwashing detergent and other household chemicals.

In order to prevent or cure a disease of the skin around the nail, the following rules must be observed:

1. Do not cut the cuticles with scissors and do not damage the skin near the nail plate at all when doing a manicure;
2. Do not neglect rubber gloves while doing housework;
3. keep your hands clean;
4. in case of damage to the skin around the nail (prick, splinter, scratch, etc.), immediately treat the affected area with peroxide, iodine or brilliant green;
5. rub tea tree oil, which is a natural antiseptic, into the inflamed skin;
6. in case of reddening of the cuticle and periungual roller, make baths with a weak iodine solution.

If, following these rules, the skin around the nail does not heal, you should immediately consult a doctor. The dermatologist examines the problem and makes a diagnosis. At best, it will be an allergy or infection, at worst, a fungal disease, paronychia or felon.

Paronychia is an infectious disease of the skin around the nail, symptomatic of inflammation and redness of the periungual ridge. It is caused by the ingress of harmful microorganisms into the damaged cuticle, barbs or under the nail plate.

Paronychia is dangerous not only in itself: it causes pathological changes in the nails. In particular, this infectious and inflammatory disease can provoke thickening and darkening of the nail plates, the appearance of transverse grooves on the nails (candidiasis).

Paronychia can only be treated under the supervision of a dermatologist. He will prescribe a diet, antibiotics, multivitamins and external drugs. With the most severe form of paronychia, sometimes it is necessary to carry out surgical operations.

Panaritium is a purulent inflammation of the periungual fold and cuticles. It is also caused by bacteria and dirt trapped in cuts, scrapes, and cracks in the skin around the nails. Panaritium is characterized by the formation of a purulent bladder on the periungual ridge or under the nail. Touching the inflamed skin area causes pain, and a burning sensation can also be felt.

Panaritium is very dangerous: when neglected, it can cause sepsis, dehydration of the nail phalanx, paralysis of the finger.When a panaritium appears, you should immediately contact a dermatologist so that later you do not have to resort to surgical intervention. In no case should you open a purulent bladder on your own.

Anastasia
08/27/2011
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The inflammatory process and abscess on the finger provoke various pathogens that penetrate the soft tissues. Most often, these unpleasant conditions are caused by staphylococci.
abscess on finger
causing edema, redness and purulent inflammation of the periungual fold is called paronychia.
When the inflammatory process develops further
and goes to other parts of the finger, they say about felon
.

Types of abscesses on fingers or toes

Paronychia

A mild form of pitting a finger, or paronychia, occurs when pathogens enter the skin. During the course of the disease, there are infiltrative and purulent stages.
.

Paronychia begins with redness and swelling of the skin around the nail. Then pain syndrome occurs,
the appearance of intercellular fluid containing microbes. As the infiltration accumulates, forms a bubble, the contents of which become purulent.

There are the following types of paronychia:

1
. Paronychia of acute and chronic nature
– depending on the duration.

Subepidermal paronychia

Acute paronychia occurs suddenly
, it is characterized by severe soreness in the area of ​​suppuration.Usually this type of paronychia is caused by a bacterial infection
– Staphylococcus aureus after injury to the upper phalanx (cuticle damage).

Chronic form manifests itself gradually
: first, the skin around the nail reddens, the finger swells, there is soreness in this area.
2. Paronychia superficial (subepidermal) and deep
, affecting the thickness of the nail fold near the base of the nail.

These varieties differ in localization and clinical course. With subepidermal paronychia, pus accumulates under the epidermis
near the edge of the nail fold.
Panaritium occurs when paronychia is not properly treated.

There are the following varieties:

Reasons for picking a toe near the toenail or toenail

Incorrect manicure as the cause of paronychia

One of the most common causes of finger inflammation in the nail area is improper pedicure and manicure.

Careless actions can damage the cuticle and provoke an inflammatory process with further accumulation of pus around the nail.
Usually such inflammation is caused by streptococcal and staphylococcal microorganisms
that live on the skin of every person.

Certain conditions affect the development of the inflammatory process, such as:

• decrease in the body’s immune forces
• the presence of severe concomitant blood diseases
• metabolic disorders.
• on feet or nails.

Most cases of felon development occur after injuries to the skin on the fingers.
Moreover, the inflammatory process can occur even due to minor injuries – abrasions, scratches or splinters,
cracks due to too dry and peeling skin. An infection penetrates the skin, which gives rise to purulent inflammation. For this reason, even minor wounds should be immediately treated with alcohol-containing solutions or iodine.
Burrs can also cause inflammation and the formation of pus in the tissues of the toe near the nail.

They arise from a lack of body or injuries of the skin and are open wounds. An infection can also penetrate them, after which an abscess forms.

Inflammation of toe from ingrown toenail

On the leg, it is also often the cause of the development of inflammation and suppuration of the area near the nail plate.

Ingrown toenail inflammation

There are people prone to this problem.The most prone to ingrown toenail. This is influenced by the special location and size of the periungual roller, as well as the growth of the nail itself.
Also, an improperly done pedicure on the feet can contribute to ingrowth: if the corners of the nail plate on both sides prevents the growth of the periungual roller, they grow into soft tissues.
Therefore, it is necessary to properly process the nail plates during a pedicure:

• to control the length of nails and not to grow them;
• Do not square nails, cut corners;
• to regularly carry out foot baths that help soften the skin and nails;
• Remove dead skin particles in areas of possible ingrown nails.

The first sign of an ingrowing nail is pain in the periungual ridge near the edge of the nail plate
… Then the pain spreads to the entire phalanx. Due to the fact that such feelings are tolerable, most people do not pay special attention to this problem. But then they notice that the skin around the nail is inflamed. If you do not take action, the situation will become more serious, suppuration will begin near the nail plate.
If an abscess forms, it is better to see a doctor to avoid complications.

Splinter as a cause of nail abscess

A splinter is the cause of inflammation of the nail on the hand

A splinter can cause an abscess under the nail
if it enters this area.

Small splinters are difficult to spot in this area. They are not exposed to mechanical stress, therefore, in such situations, a strong inflammatory process develops.
If it is possible to remove the splinter on its own, after removing it, use means to relieve inflammation.So the situation will quickly return to normal. In some cases, when eliminating a splinter, the help of a doctor may be required.

Signs of a nail abscess

In most cases of paronychia and panaritium, the big toe is exposed, any finger can become inflamed on the hands.

By the defeat of several nails at the same time, one can judge the work of the body’s immune forces – its decrease. Also, an inflammatory process on more than two toes may indicate the presence of a foot or nails.
But whatever caused panaritium, the characteristic symptoms will be:

If you find these signs in yourself, it is better to contact a surgeon to prescribe the correct treatment and avoid complications.

Complications of inflammation of the finger

An abscess in a neglected form is very dangerous

: a purulent inflammatory process can spread deeper: to the tendons, bone tissue, finger joint. The finger can partially completely lose its function.
Moreover, inflammation can affect the hand, forearm.

Severe form
panaritium with concomitant diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, can lead to the following complications:

more complicated than nail inflammation

1. sepsis (blood poisoning)
   – a rather formidable condition, which without qualified assistance can lead to death;
2. phlegmon brush
   – acute purulent inflammation of the cellular tissue of the hand;
3. tenosynovitis
   – purulent inflammatory process in the tendon sheaths, the most severe condition in which there is a prolonged loss of mobility of the affected finger;
4. osteomyelitis
   – a severe purulent process of bone tissue, requiring immediate surgical intervention, sometimes complete amputation of the finger.

First aid for nail abscess

In order to normalize the situation when the first symptoms of an abscess on a toe or hand appear, you should know the first aid rules, as well as warnings.
What is not allowed
to do in no case is to pierce the bladder with pus
, in order to get rid of it, because in a greater degree of probability, it will not be possible to completely remove all the purulent fluid, and there will be no effect from such an effect.

This is quite dangerous – if you insert the needle too deeply, you can provoke blood poisoning and the infection will spread throughout the body, and this is fraught with serious consequences.

What you can do:
with anti-inflammatory properties: salt, soap or chamomile decoction.
The foot should be immersed in such a liquid several times a day, which will significantly reduce the manifestation of unpleasant symptoms. After the procedure, the limb should be blotted with a towel, is then allowed to make an onion compress
or use aloe leaves instead.

After three days without improvement or worsening of the situation, self-medication is canceled
. This suggests that the purulent inflammation has spread to deeper tissues. In such cases, the problem cannot be solved without medical help.

Treatment of paronychia and panaritium

For an abscess of a toe and on a hand, medications are more effective than alternative methods of treatment.

• One of these drugs is “Dimexide”
  .It is prescribed when the patient cannot use warm baths. This drug has powerful antiseptic properties, good penetration through the skin. “Dimexide” is often used by doctors for purulent dressings.
  

The solution is applied to a cotton swab and applied to the inflamed area of ​​the toe. If adverse reactions occur, the drug is canceled.

• For moderately severe inflammation, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics taken by mouth
  .
• If pus accumulates near the nail plate, the surgeon will numb the area and remove the fluid.
• For chronic paronychia caused by a fungal infection, the doctor will prescribe. These drugs include “Clotrimazole”, “Ketonazole” and others.

Treatment can be quite lengthy – from several weeks to several months. In complicated cases, you will need to take oral antifungal drugs or steroids.

Antibiotics for the treatment of abscess on the finger

Antibacterial drugs are always prescribed for the treatment of suppuration caused by streptococci or staphylococci.

• With subcutaneous panaritium, antibiotics are used to promote the inflammatory process deeper,
  but in the absence of purulent tissue decomposition.

The greatest effect is observed from drugs of the cephalosporin or penicillin series.

• At the beginning of the development of the articular panaritium, intra-articular injections with broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs are used.
  But with a severe form of this disease and in the absence of the effect of injections, the only method of treatment will be surgery, in which antibiotics are also used.

This group of drugs is prescribed and with phlegmon
hand or finger, if there are foci of inflammation and pus after the operation. In such cases, antibiotics are used to prevent infection of adjacent tissues.
Drugs of a wide spectrum of action in this condition are prescribed in a rather high dose.

inflammation surgery

These are such antibiotics as “Ampicillin”, “Oxacillin”, “Cloxacillin”, “Erythromycin”, “Meticillin”, “Chloramphenicol”
… For local exposure, the affected area is pierced with a penicillin solution on novocaine.The dosage is determined by the doctor individually.

Surgery for the treatment of nail inflammation

If conservative treatment was started late and did not bring any result, complications appear, which can be eliminated only with the help of surgical intervention.
For this purpose, drainage of purulent fluid is performed under local anesthesia.
. If the skin in the abscess has acquired a white or yellow color, local anesthesia is not performed, since this sign indicates damage to the nerve fibers.
Options for performing a surgical intervention:

For faster healing of incisions and to prevent secondary infection, a course of antibiotics and antiseptics is prescribed.

Home treatment of nail abscess

Treatment of nail and subcutaneous felon at home is possible only at the onset of the disease and under close medical supervision.
In the absence of the effect of ointments, baths and increased signs of the disease, the only way to get rid of purulent inflammation will be surgery.
Treatment in the clinic can be carried out with such types of felon as subcutaneous, skin and nail. With the transition of purulent inflammation to the joints, tendons and bone tissue, the patient is sent

Herpes infection on the toe

to the surgical department of the hospital.

Herpes infection of sore toe

If there are bubbles filled with clear liquid on an inflamed finger or toe
or mixed with pus and blood, it is more likely that the cause of panaritium is herpes pathogens.
The most common herpes infection on the fingers occurs in children
, in the presence of such bubbles and on other parts of the body – in the mouth, on the lips.

If you suspect herpes inflammation of the finger, treatment should be carried out as follows:

1. Apply Acyclovir ointment to the inflamed area for a week. After this treatment, the skin will return to normal in 1 or 2 weeks.
2. A bandage can be applied to the site of inflammation in order to reduce the risk of herpes infection spreading to healthy parts of the body, especially mucous membranes.
If the use of the ointment did not bring any result and the inflammatory process only intensifies, it is necessary to make an appointment with a doctor to choose further treatment tactics.

Folk remedies for the treatment of panaritium on the arm or leg

Folk methods are effective only at the initial stage of inflammation and abscesses on the toes and hands.

• For this, lotions with infusion of herbs with antiseptic properties are used: chamomile, calendula.

To obtain the product, you will need 200 ml of boiling water and 1 spoon of dry raw materials. The grass is poured into a container with liquid and left for a while. In a chilled infusion, a cotton swab is soaked and applied to the affected area, fixed.

The amount of potassium permanganate should be such that the liquid acquires a pale pink color. A finger with an abscess is dropped into this solution, after a while it is taken out, blotted with a towel and an ointment is applied to the affected area, followed by a bandage.

• To obtain a salt-soda bath, dissolve a spoonful of soda and salt in 200 ml of water. Such baths are allowed to be performed in turn.
• Onion compress
  

Onion compress – is a fairly effective remedy in the treatment of panaritium.
In order to cook it, you need to take ¼ part of the onion, grate it on a coarse grater and put it on cheesecloth so that a layer of 1 cm thick is obtained.
The compress is applied to the finger, covered with a foil, and then fixed with a bandage.Keep such a compress on the affected area for 2 hours, then a bath with soda and salt is carried out and the onion mass is replaced with fresh.
This alternation must be carried out 2 times a day. If there is no effect within 3 days, a doctor’s consultation is required.

Panaritium in a child

Plucking a finger from a child

The fingers of the child should be monitored especially carefully,
since it is children who more often than adults have, which can lead to the onset of an inflammatory process in the hands.
When a red spot appears near a fingernail of a child, you should immediately smear it with iodine solution
. You can also attach a cotton pad dipped in calendula tincture. Lotions will also help. This is necessary to stop the inflammatory process at the very beginning of its development.

If an abscess appears, in no case should you try to treat it yourself or pierce it with a needle. The best solution would be to see a doctor, he will carry out the necessary manipulations.Since in children, the inflammatory process and the formation of pus occurs very quickly
, surgical treatment is usually used.

Prevention of paronychia and panaritium

The main preventive measure for these conditions is to avoid damage and injury.
skin on fingers: bruises, cuts.
It is also important to observe daily hygiene of the feet
. More information about paronychia can be found in the video.

Using the services of a professional pedicure master will protect you from improper processing of the nail plates, and its consequences: damage to the skin, ingrowth of the nail and inflammation.