FUNGAL INFECTIONS (ONYCHOMYCOSIS)

When a nail infection develops, the most common cause is a fungus. More frequent on the toenails than on the fingernails, fungal nail infections affect about 12% of all Americans. Onychomycosis tends to run in families because of an inherited tendency, but not everyone is susceptible. It is rare in children unless one or both parents are infected.

The two most common types of fungi affecting the skin are dermatophytes and yeast (Candida). While both types infect nails, dermatophytes tend to be more common in toenails. Yeast infections are seen more frequently in fingernails. While some fungal nail infections may respond to topical antifungal creams, lotions, gels, and lacquers, most infections of the nail plate require oral medicines such as itraconazole, terbinafine, and fluconazole.

• BACTERIAL INFECTIONS

Redness, swelling, and pain of the skin folds around the nails often indicate an infection caused by bacteria. The most common cause of a bacterial infection is injury to the nail or surrounding skin. Frequent exposure to water and chemicals is a common cause of these bacterial infections. Sometimes a green discoloration of the nail occurs. A bacterium called pseudomonas causes this discoloration.

• TUMORS AND WARTS

These may be found in any portion of the nail and can cause the nail plate to change shape. When a growing tumor or wart interferes with nail growth, it can destroy the nail.
Warts are viral infections that affect the skin surrounding or underneath the nail. They can be painful and sometimes limit use of the affected finger or toe. Treatment usually involves destroying the wart with freezing or chemicals. If a wart or tumor extends into the nail folds or is located under the nail plate, surgery may be necessary to remove it.

Warts can be on the skin surrounding
the nail and underneath the nails.

• MUCINOUS CYSTS

Appearing as clear, jelly-filled papules at the base of the nail, these cysts can become painful and may damage or deform the nail. Treatment involves removing the cyst.

• DARK SPOTS OR STREAKS

If a dark spot or streak appears on any nail, and is not the result of an injury, it must be examined by a dermatologist. This could be melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer.

Psoriasis can also affect the nails

• PSORIATIC NAILS

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. Approximately 10% to 50% of people with psoriasis, and 80% of people who suffer from psoriatic arthritis have nail problems, especially with their fingernails. The most common signs include pitting, rippling, and discoloration of the nail. With psoriatic nails, it is common
for the skin beneath the nail to develop a reddish-brown discoloration. Splinter hemorrhages can form. The nail may separate from the nail bed, crumble, and/or split. Swelling and redness of the skin surrounding the base of the nail also are common.

A WINDOW ON HEALTH

The nails can reveal much about a person's overall health. Many diseases and serious conditions can be detected by changes in the nails. This is why doctors often check the nails carefully during a physical examination. The most common health conditions that the nails may be revealing are:

Condition	Nail Appearance
Liver Diseases	White nails
Kidney Diseases	Half of nail is pink, half is white
Heart Conditions	Nail bed is red
Lung Diseases	Yellowing and thickening of the nail, slowed growth rate
Anemia	Pale nail beds
Diabetes	Yellowish nails, with a slight blush at the base

A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in treating the medical, surgical and cosmetic conditions of the skin, hair and nails. To learn more about nail fungus and nail health, log onto www.aad.org or call toll free (888) 462-DERM (3376) to find a dermatologist in your area.

NAIL CARE TIPS

Many nail disorders result from poor nail care, so developing good nail habits can help. To keep your nails healthy, dermatologists recommend.

Nail Fungus

1. Keep nails clean and dry. This helps prevent bacteria and other infectious organisms from collecting under the nail.

2. Cut nails straight across, rounding them slightly at the tips for maximum strength. Be sure to use sharp nail scissors or clippers. Filing the nails into points weakens them.

3. Keep nails shaped and free of snags by filing with a "fine" textured file.

4. Avoid biting fingernails, and do not remove the cuticle.

5. Trim toenails regularly to keep them short. This minimizes trauma and injury.

6. Soak feet in warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt per pint of water) for five to 10 minutes when toenails are thick and difficult to cut, then apply urea or lactic acid cream. This softens the nails, making them easier to trim.

7. Avoid "digging-out" ingrown toenails, especially if they are already infected and sore. See a dermatologist for treatment.

8. Wear shoes that fit properly and alternate pairs.

9. Report any nail irregularities to your dermatologist. Nail changes, swelling, and pain could signal a serious problem.

10. Be especially vigilant of nail problems if you have diabetes or poor circulation. At the first sign of a problem, see a dermatologist.

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Yeast infections of the skin are very common, and it can expand anywhere on your body. Still, some areas are just suitable environments for yeast and suffer the most from these infections. These areas contain anywhere your skin rubs on skin, and in moist areas. This information will help you to understand what the reasons for yeast infections are and how you can control and prevent them.

Nail fungal infection

Ringworm fungal infection on the hand and leg

Everybody of us has the fungi Candida albicans in our intestinal zone. Our skin is considered to resist off the negative effects this yeast can source, but the surface of the damaged skin is will develop and possibly start the yeast fungus infection. Affected areas that have excessive moisture or rub are the most susceptible when it comes to breaking down and permitting the fungus access.

Mainly all yeast infections happen in skin folds, under arms, under the breasts, the navel and in the groin area. These are the most sensitive zones that tend to rub, scratch, and have moisture, all of which tend to harm the skin down, leave it open and at risk to infections.

As soon as you have a skin yeast infection, the infected area will break out in a rash. The skin complaint will have a distinct frame around it making easy to mark against the rest of the clear skin. This part may be also occurrence redness and swelling. At times the rash will be very itchy and produce a translucent discharge. Jock itch, toenail fungus, dandruff, athlete's feet, and ringworm, are also very common skin yeast infections.

Dandruff and Hand rash

1. Atopic dermatitis
2. Bacterial meningitis
3. Broken hand
4. Chickenpox
5. Contact dermatitis
6. Dandruff
7. Darier Disease
8. Dermatomyositis
9. Dry skin
10. Eczema
11. Erythema nodosum
12. Fowler-Christmas-Chapple syndrome
13. HIV/AIDS
14. Hand conditions
15. Hand injury
16. Heat rash
17. Impetigo
18. Measles
19. Melanoma
20. Neurodermatitis
21. Nummular dermatitis
22. Pityriasis Rosea
23. Polycystic ovary syndrome
24. Psoriasis
25. Pyoderma Gangrenosum
26. Q fever
27. Scabies
28. Syphilis
29. Tinea capitis
30. Tinea versicolor
31. Venous Insufficiency

The nail plate is the hard keratin cover of the dorsal portion of the distal phalanx. The nail plate is generated by the nail matrix at the proximal portion of the nail bed (Figure 1). As the nail grows, the distal part of the matrix produces the deeper layers of the nail plate, while the proximal portion makes the superficial layers. This production is important, because a disruption of function in the proximal matrix (as may occur in patients with psoriasis) results in more superficial nail problems (e.g., pitting). A disruption of the distal matrix may cause problems with the deeper layers, resulting in ridging or splitting. A transient problem causing growth disturbance may lead to the formation of transverse lines across the nail plate, as in Mees', Muehrcke's, and Beau's lines . Changes in the configuration of the capillaries in the proximal nail bed are responsible for some of the alterations that occur in patients with connective tissue disorders, while abnormalities in the periosteal vessels contribute to clubbing.

The nail is bound proximally by the eponychium (the skin just proximal to the cuticle), laterally by the nail folds, and distally by the distal nail fold (defined by the separation created by the anterior ligament between the distal nail bed and the nail plate; Figure

Nails Clues to Systemic Disease

The visual appearance of the fingernails and toenails may suggest an underlying systemic disease. Clubbing of the nails often suggests pulmonary disease or inflammatory bowel disease. Koilonychia, or "spoon-shaped" nails, may stimulate a work-up for hemochromatosis or anemia. In the absence of trauma or psoriasis, onycholysis should prompt a search for symptoms of hyperthyroidism. The finding of Beau's lines may indicate previous severe illness, trauma, or exposure to cold temperatures in patients with Raynaud's disease. In patients with Muehrcke's lines, albumin levels should be checked, and a work-up done if the level is low. Splinter hemorrhage in patients with heart murmur and unexplained fever can herald endocarditis. Patients with telangiectasia, koilonychia, or pitting of the nails may have connective tissue disorders. (Am Fam Physician 2004;69:1417-24. Copyright© 2004 American Academy of Family Physicians.)

Careful examination of the fingernails and toenails can provide clues to underlying systemic diseases (Table 1). Clubbing, which is one example of a nail manifestation of systemic disease, was first described by Hippocrates in the fifth century B.C.¹ Since that time, many more nail abnormalities have been found to be clues to underlying systemic disorders.

Nail tools and implements

Cuticle Pusher: A metal implement used to push the invisible, translucent true cuticle from the nail plate. When using this implement, never apply heavy, downward force to push back the cuticle as too much pressure applied in this area can damage the matrix.

Curette: An instrument designed to 'scrape' excess cuticle from the nail plate. Many technicians prefer using a curette as it is designed to remove the true cuticle from the nail plate vs. simply pushing it back. Proper use of this instrument to remove true cuticle negates the need for nippers.

Nail Brush: Used wet, and with warm soapy water for scrubbing the surface and underside of the nail plate to aid in complete removal of pathogenic organisms, dirt and debris.

Manicure/Finger Bowl: Usually a plastic container shaped to hold the fingers and hand in a comfortable position while soaking in a warm, soapy water bath.

Hot Oil Machine: A heating unit designed to warm lotion or oil in a paper or plastic 'tub'. A hot oil manicure is always recommended for persons with extremely dry skin and nails.

Paraffin Machine: A machine that warms paraffin wax that is used during some manicure/pedicure procedures. Warm wax will benefit tired, sore, stressed hands while serving to deep condition and moisturize the skin. Some paraffin waxes contain additives of eucalyptus and other essential oils.

Pedicure Tub: A foot tub that holds and heats water for soaking the feet. Some pedicure tubs will massage the feet while they are soaking. It is not recommended that the feet of the elderly be immersed in very hot water or massaged using these machines. Seek the advise of the elderly persons physician before performing a pedicure procedure -- especially one that may have a severe or debilitating health issue.

Nail tools and implements

The following is a list of nail tools and implements required when performing a manicure or pedicure, and an explanation of the proper use:

Terry Towels: To protect the work surface from chemicals and water, and to dry our hands between procedures and before enamel application.

Orangewood Sticks: For gently pushing back the cuticle, for cleaning under the free edge or for removing excess enamel.

Cotton or Gauze Pads: For removing enamel and/or excess oil from the nail plate surface.

Polish Remover: For removing nail enamel or polish from the nail plate surface. Polish remover comes in acetone or non-acetone (ethyl acetate) formulas. The general consensus is that acetone based removers can be safely used on natural nails while some prefer to use non-acetone based removers on artificial surfaces.

Files or Abrasives: Files come in all sizes and in many grits. The higher the number the smaller the grit, and the lower the number, the coarser the grit. It is never recommended to use a grit smaller than 240 on the natural nail plate or for shaping the free edge. Many over the counter 'emery boards' have a grit of 80 which is too coarse for use on natural nails. Files made of metal are also too rough to safely use as the coarser the grit, the more easily the nail plate layers are shredded. Files that are called '3-way buffers' have a grit higher than 3600. They are used to smooth the surface of the nail plate without scratches, and to impart a high gloss shine. Use the black side first to refine, then the white side to semi-shine, then finish with the gray side to super shine. Padded abrasives are easier to hold, maintain their grit for longer periods, and many of them can be sanitized.

Cuticle Nippers: Cuticle nippers come with different sizes of cutting surfaces: 1/4 jaw, 1/2 jaw and full jaw. What this means is that the more cutting surface there is, the easier it is to cut the skin with a single 'nip'. It is better to use a nipper with a smaller cutting surface if one is not accustomed to using these implements. Remember, it is only the true cuticle that is removed during the manicuring process and not the live skin of the eponychium or lateral nail folds.

Nail or Toenail Nippers/Clippers/Scissors: Nail nippers are simply a larger size cuticle nipper which have been designed to remove excess nail length, and are usually used to cut the toenails. Nail scissors have a small, curved blade and are designed to remove length from the fingernails. Nail clippers come in small and large sizes with a curved cutting edge, and are designed to cut the fingernail and toenail. Always be sure you use the proper tool for the proper procedure.

Natural care of NAILS.

The skin and nails are constantly bathed by a tidal flow of oils and moisture.

Everything we see and touch except for light and electricity is a chemical.

Excessive hand washing or using household cleaning solutions without protection can rob our skin and nails of vital oil and moisture, resulting in split, peeling nails.

Water is a chemical, so are all nail related products.

Overexposure to any chemical can cause an allergic reaction.

The nail plate is comprised of many layers of cells that lose their inner material and become flat, hard and translucent.

Strength is a combination of hardness, and flexibility.

It is the clients responsibility to maintain her nails at home between salon visits.

It is the technicians responsibility to help the client maintain beautiful, healthy nails.

Nails that split and peel lack sufficient oil and moisture.

Nail diseases and disorders should be diagnosed by a physician and the prescribed medication taken or used as directed.

The nail technician is trained to recognize nail diseases and disorders, but not to treat them in the salon.

As nail technicians, our perfect dream would be to have a full book of clients that frequent our salon for all their nail needs. The reality is that there are a great many women (and men) that cannot afford, or have the time, to seek our services and must perform their own nail care at home. It is for these people that this page is written. I have always felt that educating the public on proper nail care is essential to our standing as an industry in the eyes of the consumer. Even though we feel that we spent a lot of money and time in school and in the salon perfecting our craft, and that we should be the only ones performing nail services, there are only so many clients we can see in a day, month or year. Even with a salon on every corner, there are a great many who have never frequented nail salons for professional nail care. The knowledge they have about nails has been gained from magazines, friends, neighbors and/or Infomercials. I would much rather see us take it upon ourselves to educate the public about the benefits of home nail care than to see them chance the possibility of nail damage because of not knowing the proper procedures of a manicure, pedicure, or the proper use of nail related tools and implements.

Taking care of Hands

Tips for taking care of hands:

• Apply olive oil on your hands.
  
• Apply the juice of cucumber juice and glycerine on your hands.
  
• Mix olive oil and lime juice and apply on your hands.
  
• Make a paste of tomato juice, glycerine and lime juice in equal proportion and apply on your hands.
  
• Massage with almond oil a night to glow your hands.
  
• Apply a paste of ground almonds, milk cream and few drops of glycerine and lemon juice for bleaching.
  
• Soak your hands in water in which potatoes have been boiled.
  
• One effective method is to rib warm boiled water and mashed potatoes on hands and finger
  
• Make a mixture of Vaseline and carbolic acid and rub in on your hands.
  
• Hands can be softened by taking a mixture of orange juice and honey.
  
• Mix rose water and glycerine and apply on your hands with cotton.

Home care Tips For Hands

You can give an instant refresh treatment to your hands at home by soaking your dry hands in warm olive oil. Fill a teacup with the warmed oil, dip in your fingers and let them soak for a few minutes. When you remove them rub the oil into your hands and allow as much of it as possible to be absorbed before rinsing away the excess. Also, you can smother your hands with rich cold creams.

The care should be taken about these useful hands. The condition of the hands depends on the care you give them. For many people especially housewives and manual workers, the hands are the most overworked and ill-used part of the body. They are exposed to all kinds of wear and tear due to the effects of temperature, climate, frequent wetting, onslaughts of harsh chemicals and due to the risk of minor injury and subsequent infection. Yet the care of the hands is often completely overlooked until, say, the skin becomes rough and cracked or a nail is broken.

Manicure - Get into the habit of giving yourself a weekly manicure , which will make your hands look good along with helping them to combat annoying problems like chipping, splitting, peeling and cracking. Manicure is the care of hands, nails and arms. It prevents nail damage like fragile tips, splits.

Pedicure - Pedicure is the care of feet, legs and toe nails. Its purpose is to make the skin soft and smooth.

Here are a few ways in which you can take care of your hands better!

Hand Massage
To stimulate circulation, rub your palm over the back of the hand and then repeat with the other hand. This movement is very similar to washing your hands and it does not only stimulate circulation but it also warms the hands.

Silky and Soft Hands
Before you go to bed, lavish on the Vaseline or moisturizing cream and then pop on a pair of cotton gloves. Your hands will be incredibly soft by morning.

Too much water and chemicals
Get into the habit of wearing rubber gloves when you do any cleaning around the house.
Why? Cleaning agents can be extremely harsh on both nails and hands. The nails when exposed to water swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.

Water &Hands

Get into the habit of wearing rubber gloves when you do any cleaning around the house. Cleaning agents can be extremely harsh on both nails and hands. The nails when exposed to water, swell and then shrink back as they dry. This contributes to brittle nails.

beautiful nails tips

• Beautiful and Health Nails Tips
• 1. Eat protein rich food for white bands across the nails.
• 2. Deficiency of hydrochloric acid causes nails to split.
• 3. Deficiency of vitamin B 12 can lead to dryness, rounded and curved ends and darkening of nails.
• 4. Eat food rich in zinc to prevent white spots on the nails.
• 5. Poor metabolism of essential fatty acids causes red skin around the cuticles.
• 6. Eat food rich in sulfur and silicon like broccoli, fish, and onions.
• 7. Eat food rich in biotin such as soy, brewer’s yeast and whole grains.
• 8. Drink plenty of water and fresh fruit juices.
• 9. Drink fresh carrot juice as often as possible as it is rich in calcium and phosphorus and good for strengthening the nails.
• 10. For dry and brittle nails eat food that is rich in vitamin A and calcium.
• 11. For hangnails eat food rich in protein, vitamin C and folic acid.
• 12. Supplement your diet with spirulina and kelp to make your nails strong.
• 13. Use Blue Tinged Translucent Polish.