Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser
Advice for Nail Fungus & Athlete's Foot
A patient advice sheet — 10 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.
Last reviewed: July 2026
The advice
- Do not share shoes, socks, towels or nail clippers with others.
- Keep a separate towel for your feet; wash hands after touching infected nails or toes.
- Change and wash socks daily; choose 100% cotton when worn for long hours.
- Dry your feet and between the toes well after every wash (a hair dryer on the cool setting is fine).
- Air your feet regularly; wear breathable shoes; alternate between two pairs so each dries for 24 h; an antifungal powder/spray inside shoes helps.
- Use your own personal tools for manicure and pedicure at salons.
- Keep feet clean and trim nails regularly.
- Never walk barefoot in gyms, swimming pools and communal showers.
- Check your blood sugar — fungal infections are more common in diabetes.
- Complete the full treatment course: nails grow slowly and may take 12–18 months to look normal after cure.
See also the full treatment page: Nail fungus treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.
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