Avoiding toenail fungus infection starts with understanding how and where it develops. Fungal organisms thrive in warm, dark, and moist environments, which makes feet especially vulnerable, particularly during the summer months. However, with the right daily habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and reinfection.

Toenail fungus is highly contagious. Unlike some infections, successfully treating it once does not make you immune. Fungal spores exist in shoes, showers, carpets, towels, and public spaces. Without proper precautions, reinfection can happen easily.

Common causes of reinfection include:

• Wearing contaminated shoes

• Walking barefoot in public places

• Sharing nail tools, socks, or towels

• Not disinfecting footwear after treatment

Because fungal spores can survive for long periods, prevention must continue even after successful treatment.

You can dramatically lower your risk by following these simple practices:

• Never walk barefoot in public pools, gyms, locker rooms, or communal showers
• Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks daily
• Rotate shoes to allow them to dry fully
• Use antifungal shoe spray or powder regularly
• Trim nails straight across with disinfected clippers
• Avoid sharing shoes, socks, or nail tools
• Choose reputable nail salons that sterilize equipment

Toenail fungus infections increase during warmer months because heat and sweat create ideal growth conditions for fungus. Closed-toe shoes trap moisture, and public recreational areas expose feet to fungal spores. During summer, pay extra attention to drying your feet thoroughly after showers and beach visits. Additionally, make sure that you’re always wearing sandals or flip-flops when walking around public pools, gyms, or locker rooms.

Prevention is the best strategy. However, if you notice discoloration, thickening, or nail changes, early treatment prevents the infection from spreading or worsening.

In Glendale, CA, treatment options vary depending on severity. One advanced option is the FDA-cleared PinPointe™ laser, which targets fungus beneath the nail without systemic medication. A consultation allows a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific case.

If you notice signs of toenail fungus, call 800-672-0625 to schedule an appointment at our Glendale location or visit our website to learn more about available treatment options.