Fungal Nails vs. Damaged Nails: Causes, Symptoms & Best Solutions

Struggling with fungal or damaged nails? Discover proven causes, symptoms, and the best treatment solutions for healthy nails — backed by 20+ years of expertise.

After a long, hectic day, you come home, take off your shoes and see what! You notice a yellow, thick, crumbling appearance on your nail. You try washing it off but in vain. Because it is not an aesthetic issue, it might be a growing fungal infection. And now you worry because, besides poor appearance, it has a foul smell, discoloration, and you are unable to wear your favorite heels due to this embarrassment.

But don’t worry. I have a solution to all of your problems. Imperial Feet has a complete range of fungal nail treatment sets to give your toenails a healthy and natural look, as if nothing happened. In this blog, I will tell you all about nail fungus, its causes and symptoms and how to treat it.

What Are Fungal Nails? A Simple Explanation

Fungal Nail Infection (onychomycosis), which is also called nail mycosis, is a condition that usually occurs when fungal spores enter your nail through any small cut or crack in your nail or skin around it. It is common for both fingernails and toenails, but toenail fungus is more common. Toenails are mostly covered inside our shoes, which provides a favorable dark and damp environment for fungal growth. 

Approximately 10% of adults are affected by this infection globally. Among them, Europe owns the largest share, upto 23%, then the USA with upto 14% and 50% for adults above 70. Asia has diverse rate statistics but approximately upto 20%.

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Quick definition

Onychomycosis= any fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails. The most common pathogen isTrichophyton rubrum, the same dermatophyte responsible for athlete's foot.

What Causes Fungal Nails? (Top Triggers Worldwide)

Toenail fungus is a common issue worldwide, but there is no single cause for it. Toenail fungus reasons are several, many of which are listed below:

1. Dermatophyte fungi: Among the various nail fungus causes, the first and most common is dermatophyte fungi Trichophyton rubrum. It is one of the most well-known pathogens of nail mycosis.

2. Moist/warm environments: Fungus thrives in moist and warm environments.  Gyms, public showers, and swimming pools are good hosts for these fungal particles. There is a high chance for you to catch fungus from any of these places. 

3. Tight-fitting shoes: Due to high pressure and sweating inside tight shoes, they also act as a better breeding ground for fungi.

4. Weakened immune system: Even though fungal attacks are common, our body resists them. But in diabetic and elderly patients, the immune system is not so effective. Fungi may become dominant.

5. Athlete's foot (tinea pedis): Athlete's foot is a fungal infection on the foot. If not treated in time, it may spread towards the nails as well.

6. Nail injuries/trauma: As I told you above, the fungus enters from a tiny crack or cut in the nail. Thus, it is also one of the most prevalent causes.

7. Age: Commonly, it takes 6-12 months for a nail to grow back into a healthy nail. But, in aged people, this process is slower. There is more time for fungal exposure.

It might be possible that you consider your damaged nail as a fungal nail. Many people get confused about it and give the wrong treatment. 

Damaged Nails: How They Invite Fungal Infections

A damaged nail can cause nail fungus, not the fungus itself. They provide an entry point for the nail spores into the nails. There are multiple types of damaged nails leading to nail mycosis. They may include brittle nails, separated nails (oncholysis), or cracked nails.

There are many damaged nail causes, such as stress, sports injuries, or chemical exposure (nail polish removers). A damaged nail never means it shall lead to nail mycosis. It happens when this initial problem is left untreated. As the damage worsens with time, and provides an easier pathway for fungal particles.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Fungal vs. Damaged Nails

When you notice the unwanted appearance of your nail, you immediately want to correct it. But it is never possible without knowing the actual cause. It might be possible that you are applying treatment for damaged nails but suffering from nail fungus. In this way, you are just wasting your time. So, properly knowing the symptoms is a must to treat the problem.

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Pro tip

If you're not sure whether your nail is fungal or damaged, consult a podiatrist. For mild to moderate fungal symptoms, Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution is an effective first step.

Symptoms of FUNGAL nails:

• Yellow, brown, or white discoloration

• Thickened nail

• Brittle, crumbling texture

• Nail lifting from the nail bed

• Unpleasant smell

• Spreading to adjacent nails

Symptoms of DAMAGED nails:

• Dark bruising under the nail

• Horizontal ridges (Beau's lines)

• Splitting or peeling

• Thinning nail plate

• Nail loss after injury

COMPARISON TABLE — Fungal vs. Damaged Nails:

Why are my toenails yellow?

• Besides fungus, there are several reasons:

• The first reason behind the yellowing of the toenail is nail mycosis, which is also its main symptom. 

• Physical stress can also cause yellowing of the nails. When a nail bump or wound appears as a dark purple or black bruise at first, and during its healing process, it eventually turns yellow.

• Frequent use of nail polish can also leave a yellow stain.

• Psoriasis can also cause yellow discoloration of the nail

The most effective way of treating a problem is to seek help from a professional. So, when in doubt regarding a fungal or damaged nail, seek help from a podiatrist. If you notice the symptoms of nail fungus are mild-to-moderate, then Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution can be the most effective step.

Worldwide Prevalence: Who Gets Nail Fungus Most?

Nail Fungus is a common problem among adults, especially worldwide. But the rate at which it affects people from different localities also depends upon demographic factors such as age and environment.

GLOBAL COMPARISON TABLE — Nail Fungus Prevalence by Region:

Looking at the table, you will understand how nail fungus is affecting people of higher ages, with low immunity, and those living in humid climates, as they host favorable conditions for fungal growth.

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Important

The most common cause of reinfection is stopping when nails look better. Continue treatment until the new healthy nail has fully grown out — typically 1–3 months of consistent use.

In Netherland Imperial Feet has been in work since 2001. We started our work in collaboration with the Dutch pedicure salon. When we received complaints from our clients that their appointments were cancelled, as salons don’t want to touch fungal nails. We provided the Nail Mycosis Solution to treat their nail fungus. After getting treated, it made them able to get their appointments back. After several positive reviews from our clients and salon, we decided to share this legacy with everyone around the globe

Treatment Options: From Home Remedies to Proven Solutions

Depending on the severity of the problem and the availability of goods, there are different kinds of treatment. Home remedies to slow down the problem, over-the-counter topical treatments for mild infection, and then professional-grade products for proper treatment. For those looking for a complete, all-in-one solution, starting with a professional Nail Mycosis Starter Kit ensures you treat the infection effectively from day one. 

1. Home Remedies (Limited Effectiveness):

Home remedies are not as effective as they seem to be. They clear the surface of the problem, but to treat nail fungus, the treatment must penetrate into the nail bed. But they still slow down the fungal growth until you have proper treatment available. Some of the practical remedies are:

• Tea tree oil (natural antifungal properties, partial effectiveness)

• Apple cider vinegar soaks

• Vicks VapoRub (anecdotal evidence only)

• Keeping nails clean and trimmed

2. OTC (Over-the-Counter) Topical Treatments:

Toenail fungus feeds on nail keratin protein and thickens the nail eventually. It becomes much harder for a simple solution to penetrate into the nail bed. That’s also why fungus survives under your nail.

• You can get these topical antifungal nail treatments from local pharmacies.

3. Professional/Targeted Topical Solutions:

The best fungal nail treatment solution is the one that penetrates into the nail bed and heals the problem. Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution is one of these topical targeted solutions. It has a deep-penetrating formula, containing tea tree oil + jojoba oil + glycerin, safe for diabetics, trusted by professionals worldwide for 20+ years

How to get rid of toenail fungus?

Clean and dry your nails. Gently file the surface to allow maximum absorption. Apply Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution twice a day. Be consistent and wait until you see the results. Visible improvement may take 2-4 weeks, and full results may take 1-3 months, depending on the severity of the problem.

Comparison table: Treatment Methods:

How to Use Antifungal Nail Treatment Correctly

To achieve the best results and stay aligned with typical fungal nail treatment timelines, follow these general steps to use the antifungal nail treatment correctly: 

1. Properly wash and dry your nails and feet

2. Carefully file the nail down nail as thin as possible. It will allow maximum absorption of the solution

3. Apply Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution to the targeted area

4. Let it absorb before putting on socks/shoes

5. Apply Nail Mycosis Solution twice daily 

6. You can also use Imperial Feet Anti-Fungal Foot Soak 2–3 times per week to soften nails and boost treatment

7. Also, spray shoes and socks with Anti-Fungal Shoe Disinfectant Spray to prevent reinfection.

Consistency and patience are necessary. Leaving treatment too early is the major cause of reinfection. Visible improvement in 2-4 weeks, and full results may take 1-3 months. Continue treatment until the new healthy nail fully grows out.

Preventing Reinfection: Daily Habits That Make the Difference

Now you know the proper treatment and care routine. But many people still complain about reinfection. It is more common than you think. The reason is also as common as the problem itself. 

People are likely to stop the treatment as soon as they start noticing better results. Here, you might think the problem is gone, but the fungus is still hiding under your nail bed. So, complete treatment is necessary to stop the problem at its roots. 

Another major reason is that with fungal nails, you are using and infecting your footwear. When you reuse your infected shoes, you again get the same problem. So, not only treat your feet but also disinfect your shoes to prevent reinfection.

Follow these SOPs to prevent any reinfection:

• Change socks daily; wash at 60°C (140°F) to kill fungal spores

• Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, pools, and locker rooms

• Keep nails trimmed and clean

• Choose breathable footwear

• Treat shoes and socks regularly with antifungal spray

• Treat Athlete's Foot promptly, as it often spreads to the nails

• Keep blood sugar controlled (for diabetics)

Use Imperial Feet Antifungal Shoes Disinfectant Spray (Shoe and Sock Spray) to disinfect your shoes. It is also a necessary solution to prevent reinfection. Apply every time after using the shoes.

Fungal Nails in Specific Groups: What You Need to Know

Some people are indeed more vulnerable to Toenail fungus than others. 

Diabetics and Nail Fungus

Individuals suffering from diabetes are highly vulnerable to nail mycosis and other diseases. The reason is that diabetes compromises their immune system. The body's response to fight against pathogens is weakened. Also, the healing process slows down due to poor circulation.

Diabetics patients must always consult a doctor for their problem. However, Imperial Feet products are paraben-free, non-toxic, and suitable for diabetics.

Athletes and Sportspeople 

Fungal spores love to live in dark and damp places. Athletes host the exact same environment. Their sweaty feet, tight-fitting shoes, shared changing room, and showers all pose a high alert for nail fungus.

For them, an antifungal shoe disinfectant spray is a must to prevent infection. Athletes must never ignore any sign of fungal nails. It must be treated as soon as noticed,  because they live in a favorable environment, and the problem might become worse if not treated in time.

Elderly Adults and Nail Health

With growing age, you become a susceptible host to various diseases and skin infections. Similar case for toenail fungus. A slight damage to the nail might invite this infection. Due to the slower nail growth in aged people, the targeted area is exposed to the external environment for much longer periods.

For these people, formulae with naturally made ingredients, such as Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution, are the best choice. It will treat the problem without damaging their thin skin.

Imperial Feet: The Professional Solution Since 2001

Imperial Feet is a Dutch family business founded in 2001. We have been specifically working with foot-care professionals for over two decades.

Today, I, Sylke Bommel, am leading this company, the third generation. The products are used daily by podiatrists and salon professionals worldwide. The formulas built around natural ingredients like tea tree oil, jojoba oil, and glycerin were developed in collaboration with the Dutch pedicure salons, who needed something that actually worked on real clients, not just in a lab.

Every product is diabetic-friendly, paraben-free, and non-toxic. Every purchase is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee. Because with our 20 Years of legacy and fine products, we are always confident in our results and care.

The reviews reflect that consistency. Jane Raven, a retired podiatrist, used the Nail Mycosis Solution for 12 months and saw her nail fully restored after years of persistent infection. Donna Confalone was sure that her nail had been separating from the nail bed for some time. After consistent use of Imperial Feet products, she describes it as "as good as new."

The stories are common. But the infections that might feel permanent are not; they just need the right treatment and enough patience.

4.8 stars from verified customers. 20+ years in professional foot care. Imperial Feet is a guarantee that removes all the risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nail Fungus

1. How long does it take to treat nail fungus? 

Fungal nail treatment timelines depend on the severity of the problem. Generally, it takes 2-4 weeks for visible improvement. But, for the proper recovery, it may take 3-12 months. The infected nail has to fully grow out and be replaced with a healthy nail

2. Is nail fungus contagious? 

Yes.  Through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, nail fungus can be spread. Sharing towels, shoes, socks, and pool floors causes this problem. Always clean your shoes and do not share things with infected persons. 

3. Can I use nail polish if I have fungal nails? 

No, it is never recommended. Nail polish can hold moisture and make it easier to get fungal infections. Although oxygen-permeable (or breathable) nail polishes, such as the antifungal nail polish by Imperial Feet, are designed to be used during the treatment. 

4. Is fungal nail treatment safe for diabetics? 

Many topical treatments, such as Imperial Feet’s Nail Mycosis Solution, are suitable for diabetics as they contain natural, non-toxic substances. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any treatment, particularly if you have circulatory issues. 

5. What happens if I leave nail fungus untreated? 

Fungal nail infections worsen and spread to other nails when left untreated. In more serious cases, the fungal nail infection may be painful and make walking difficult, giving the nail permanent damage.

6. What is the difference between nail fungus and nail psoriasis? 

It is common among people to confuse nail psoriasis vs fungal nail. They both affect the color and texture of the nails. But nail psoriasis also involves symptoms of the skin (scaling, redness), is not contagious, and cannot be treated with antifungal treatment. Consult your dermatologist for the right diagnosis 

7. Can nail fungus go away on its own? 

Mostly not never. Generally, fungal nail infections need the right treatment. If not treated, the fungus will gradually penetrate deeper into the nail bed and other nails. I just make it harder to remove in the long run. 

8. How do I prevent nail fungus from coming back? 

To prevent reinfection, use an antifungal shoe disinfectant spray for shoes. Wash socks with warm water. Dry and trim nails when needed. It is a must to complete treatment even if your nails look better. 

Start Your Journey to Healthy, Fungus-Free Nails Today 

Toenail fungus is not a lifelong problem. It is one of the most common foot conditions worldwide and can be treated easily with the right and proper treatment.

The solution is simple: the right product, consistent application, and enough patience to let a new nail grow in. Most people, even with the right treatment, face reinfection. Because they stop the treatment too early, or they don’t disinfect their footwear where fungal spores thrive.

Start with the Imperial Feet Nail Mycosis Solution for targeted daily treatment 

Explore the Nail Mycosis Starter Kit for a complete approach that covers both the nail and its surroundings.

Healthy nails are not something you can get by luck. They need proper care and routine to get their shape. With over 20 years of professional use and a 100% money-back guarantee, Imperial Feet is the trusted choice for professionals and customers worldwide.