What a nail technician should do when they notice signs of fungus on a client's nails

Caught a red flag on a client’s nails? Here’s how to respond in a way that protects everyone and keeps your salon standards intact. When a nail tech spots signs of fungus—things like discoloration, thickening, ridges, or crumbling edges—the smart move isn’t to push through or pretend nothing is wrong. It’s to guide the client toward medical care. Let me explain why and how you can handle this with clarity, professionalism, and empathy.

Why the right move matters

First off, a fungal nail infection is a medical issue, not a cosmetic hiccup. It requires accurate diagnosis and, often, prescription treatment from a healthcare provider. Nail techs aren’t trained to diagnose infections or prescribe medications, and giving medical advice beyond general guidance can blur professional boundaries. More than that, fungus can be contagious. If it’s left unchecked, you risk spreading it to other clients or to yourself—especially in a busy salon where tools, towels, and nails are in constant close contact.

So, what’s the best move? Advise the client to seek medical attention. This is not a sign of failure on either side; it’s a responsible step that prioritizes health and helps ensure a positive outcome. After all, beautiful nails start with healthy nails, and that health often needs a doctor’s eye.

A practical, client-friendly protocol you can follow

Let’s walk through a straightforward approach you can put into practice the next time you notice something off.

1. Pause and protect

• Stop the service the moment you detect symptoms. Do not trim, file, or buff the affected nail. Even small motions can aggravate the issue or spread spores.

• Isolate the client’s station, if possible. Change gloves, and clean any shared tools or surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant. For multi-use tools that contact the affected area, switch to disposable options when feasible, and discard them after use.

2. Communicate with care

• Start with calm, non-alarmist language. You might say, “I’m noticing signs that could be fungal. For your safety and mine, I recommend you see a healthcare professional who can assess this properly.”

• Offer clarity on next steps without lecturing. “A doctor or dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. I can share resources if you’d like.”

• Avoid giving medical advice beyond general guidance. You can reiterate that fungal infections require professional evaluation and that timely care usually leads to the best outcomes.

3. Document and reference

• Make a concise note in the client record about the observed signs, the date, and the recommendation given. If your salon has a policy for documenting concerns, follow it. Photos can be helpful, but only with explicit consent for medical documentation and privacy considerations.

• If appropriate, provide a referral card or a quick list of nearby clinics or dermatology offices. A simple, patient-friendly list is often appreciated.

4. Don’t diagnose or prescribe

• Remember, diagnosing fungal infections and prescribing treatments are outside your scope. The same goes for offering or suggesting over-the-counter remedies as a substitute for professional care. You can acknowledge that OTC products exist, but emphasize they should only complement a clinician’s guidance, not replace it.

5. Maintain professional boundaries and safety

• Maintain healthy boundaries around discussing medical details. Focus on how it impacts treatment options, not on diagnosing the client’s condition.

• Reinforce standard infection-control practices with every client. Cleanliness isn’t just a vibe; it’s a safety protocol. Use single-use tools where possible, sterilize reusable items between clients, and keep the salon’s ventilation and sanitation routines up to date.

6. Plan for the client’s return

• You can offer to schedule a follow-up visit after the client has seen a healthcare professional. If they get medical clearance, you can re-evaluate whether services are appropriate and what adaptations may be needed.

• Use this as an opportunity to revisit aftercare education. Gentle reminders about nail hygiene, moisture management, and protective steps can help prevent future issues.

What not to do

• Don’t press ahead with manicure or pedicure services on affected nails. Even if the client insists that the problem is minor, proceeding might worsen the condition or spread it.

• Don’t push home remedies or OTC solutions as a substitute for medical evaluation. While some remedies exist, their effectiveness varies, and serious infections can require prescription antifungal medications.

• Don’t minimize the issue. Acknowledge the client’s concerns and explain why medical input is essential for reliable treatment.

Bringing in the broader picture: infection control as a core habit

If you’ve ever watched a good nail tech at work, you’ve seen infection control being treated like a rhythm—part discipline, part instinct. Here are quick reminders that go beyond this specific scenario and strengthen your day-to-day practice.

• Use a mix of disposable items and validated sterilization. Liners, wooden sticks, and single-use buffers are simple but powerful ways to cut risk. For metal implements, follow a proven sterilization cycle or opt for pre-sterilized, single-use versions when feasible.

• Keep tools organized and labeled. A tidy station isn’t just neat; it reduces cross-contamination risk and helps you respond calmly when you encounter something unusual.

• Clean and sanitize between clients, not just at the end of the day. Your routine should feel automatic, not ceremonial.

• Stay connected with local guidelines. Regulations around infection control can shift, and state board guidelines reflect current best practices. A quick check-in keeps you compliant and confident.

A moment to align with real-world realities

Let me throw in a quick tangent that often resonates: clients come to us for confidence as much as for a tidy set of nails. When you spot something that could be medical, acknowledging the client’s concern while steering them toward a professional diagnosis is a form of respect. It demonstrates that you value their well-being as much as the service you’re delivering. People remember how you handle tough moments—your calm, practical, no-drama approach can turn hesitation into trust.

If a client asks, “What should I do now?” you can reply with clarity: “Make an appointment with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. If you’d like, I can share a list of nearby dermatologists or clinics.” It’s a simple, human gesture that reinforces your role as a trusted, responsible professional.

A quick note on prevention and education

Even when everything goes smoothly, share a little education that helps clients protect their nails. You might say:

• Keep nails dry and clean; fungus loves moisture, and damp environments are its playground.

• Wear breathable footwear and moisture-absorbing socks when appropriate in foot care.

• Avoid picking at or biting nails, which can create entry points for infections.

• If you’re ever unsure about a nail’s condition, err on the side of caution and suggest medical evaluation.

In the end, the right response to signs of fungus isn’t a dramatic moment; it’s a steady, thoughtful sequence of actions that puts health first. You pause, you inform, you guide toward a professional assessment, and you protect your space and your clients. That approach not only upholds licensing standards but also builds lasting trust. Clients remember a salon that takes their health seriously—long after the polish has dried.

If you’re building a workspace that handles these moments with grace, you’re already ahead. It’s about showing up with a clear plan, a compassionate tone, and a robust toolkit for sanitation and safety. And yes, it’s okay to feel a moment of unease when you spot something unfamiliar—recognize it, follow the steps, and you’ll navigate it with poise.

Resources and next steps

• Local dermatology clinics and family-practice networks can be reliable starting points for referrals.

• EPA-registered disinfectants and manufacturer guidelines for tool sterilization help keep your station safe between clients.

• Training on infection control refresher courses can keep you sharp and compliant with current standards.

• A simple client information card with signs of nail infections and a note about seeking medical care can be a helpful addition to your intake process.

The bottom line: when fungus signs show up, your top priority is client safety plus professional integrity. Advise medical attention, maintain rigorous sanitization, document your steps, and keep the conversation reassuring and practical. Nail health and cosmetic care aren’t separate worlds—they’re two sides of the same coin. Treat them that way, and you’ll walk a lot farther with your clients and your career.