Allie Mac Kay was live at Hand's on Boutique Spa and Wellness Sanctuary in Beverly Hills. She showed us how mani and pedi's the right way....how to avoid the fungus in salons, whiten our nail beds, get perfect feet at home, and the latest trend in colors.

Hand's On Boutique Spa and Wellness Sanctuary 243 S Beverly Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90212

For more information about Dr. Nik's Foot and Ankle Center: P. Benjamin Nikravesh Dr. Nik's Foot and Ankle Center 323-782-8586 6404 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 600 Los Angeles, CA 90048 drnikravesh@yahoo.com

NAIL FUNGUS INFECTION FACT SHEET

Fungal infection of the nail, or onychomycosis, is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. If ignored, the infection can spread and possibly impair one's ability to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes.

Onychomycosis can also be accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate. Because it is difficult to avoid contact with microscopic organisms like fungi, the toenails are especially vulnerable around damp and public areas where people are likely to be walking barefoot.

Those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributing factors may be a history of athlete's foot and excessive perspiration.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What causes nail problems? (infections, thickening, nail lifting) Nail problems have a wide variety of causes including allergic reactions, trauma, side effects of medications, infections (including bacteria, fungi and viruses), diminished circulation, smoking, and illnesses that effect many parts of the body, to name a few. If the nail is elevated, or lifted off the nail bed, a space develops under the nail where water and germs may accumulate.Once under the nail, these germs find a perfect environment to grow – a warm, moist area with a continuous blood supply, encouraging germs to multiply.

How do I know what type of problem I have? Only a physician is capable of diagnosing a nail condition. In order to determine your specific problem, a physician needs to take a thorough history as well as perform some laboratory tests. The Mycocide Nail Fungus Test Kit give you the opportunity to be diagnosed for fungus by a physician via mail.

How long does it take to get rid of a nail infection? The length of time involved is determined by nail growth: No medication available can make a problem nail return to normal overnight. It takes approximately three to six months for fingernails and six to 12 months for toenails to completely grow out. In some individuals, with poor circulation or chronic medical conditions, the time required for re-growth may be much longer.

Why is nail fungus so difficult to treat? The nails of our fingers and toes are tremendously effective barriers. This barrier makes it quite difficult for a superficial infection to invade the nail. Once an infection has set up residence, the same barrier that was so effective in protecting us against infection now works against us, making it difficult to treat the infection.