Understanding Four Common Nail Contraindications: Causes and Symptoms for Professionals

Nail contraindications are essential for professionals in the beauty and wellness industry to recognize. By understanding these conditions, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your clients while providing them with the best possible care. In this guide, we will explore four common nail contraindications: fungal nail infections, Pseudomonas, Onycholysis, and paronychia. Each section will cover the causes and symptoms, equipping you with the knowledge needed to identify these conditions effectively.

Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal nail infections are among the most common issues encountered in salons and clinics. These infections arise when fungi invade the nail bed, causing noticeable changes in the nail's appearance and health.

According to saloncides research, Fungal nail infections are the second most common health and safety issue within the whole hair and beauty industry, quickly spread due to being highly contagious.

The primary cause of fungal nail infections is dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. Factors like tight footwear, excessive sweating, or poor nail hygiene can increase the risk of developing these infections.

Symptoms often include:

• Discoloration of the nail, which may turn yellow, brown, or white.

• Brittle, thickened, or crumbly nails.

• In more severe cases, nails may separate from the nail bed.

  
  

  What to do?

• If you suspect a client has a fungal infection you must refuse treatment and advise them to go to their GP of foot specialist as soon as possible. Once fully treated and all clear you may then treat them again.

  
  

Fungal nail infection showing discoloration and crumbling edges.

Pseudomonas

Pseudomonas refers to a type of bacteria that can infect the nails. This condition is marked by greenish discoloration under the nail, a result of bacterial growth that requires prompt attention.

Moisture and poor ventilation often contribute to the growth of Pseudomonas bacteria. Commonly this happens when lifting of a nail enhancement is not removed or maintained soon enough. When lifting occurs moisture gets trapped and becomes a warm wet bacteria breeding ground.

Symptoms of Pseudomonas infections include:

• A distinctive green or black discoloration beneath the nail.

• An unpleasant odor.

• Pain or tenderness in the affected nail area in extreme cases

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  What to do?

• Updated advise is to remove the nail enhancement, clean and dry the nail and wait till the greenie grows out to re apply any product.

  
  

Pseudomonas infection visible on the nail surface with greenish discoloration.

Onycholysis

Onycholysis, commonly known as separation of the nail plate is where the nail comes away from the nail bed. The hyponychium (skin that joins the two at the tip of your finger) acts as a glue to bond the two. When this stops doing its job you then see the separation.

Causes:

Over filed thin nail plates

Heat spikes from too much gel at once applied

Old age

Allergies to nail products

Trauma to the nail plate or hyponychium

Symptoms generally include:

• receding smile line

• lifting of the natural nail from the bed.

• tender hyponychium

What to do?

Extra weight from nail products will make this worse.

The best thing you can do is cut nails short and use cuticle oil twice a day to hydrate and repair.

If the cause was allergies the client will need to go for allergy tests before you are able to treat them again.

Onychomycosis affects the nail with thickened and discolored surfaces.

Paronychia

Paronychia is an infection that affects the folds of skin around the nail and can be classified as either acute or chronic. This condition usually occurs when the skin around the nail is damaged, allowing bacteria or fungi to enter.

The causes of paronychia vary. They can arise from trauma to the nail area, frequent exposure to water or harsh chemicals, or even habitual nail-biting. Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic skin issues are more vulnerable to developing paronychia.

Symptoms include:

• Redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail.

• Pus formation in more severe cases.

• Pain when pressure is applied to the infected area.

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts

Recognizing common nail contraindications—such as fungal nail infections, Pseudomonas, Onycholysis, and paronychia—is vital for beauty professionals. By understanding the causes and symptoms of these conditions, you can enhance the safety and health of your clients while applying best practices in nail care management.

Educating clients on proper hygiene and promoting early detection can significantly improve your ability to deliver effective care. Keep in mind that the condition of a person’s nails often reflects their overall health, making it crucial for professionals to stay informed about these common issues.

For any signs of these infections, recommend that clients seek medical advice and avoid nail services until the condition has been resolved. By being vigilant and informed, you can provide exceptional service while upholding the highest health and safety standards.