Fungal infections most often strike between the toes, where warmth and moisture feed the fungi.

Where fungus loves to hide—and how you’ll spot it

Feet live in a warm, moist world most of us barely notice. They’re enclosed in socks and shoes much of the day, left damp after a shower, or tucked into gym sneakers after a workout. That combination—heat, moisture, and limited air flow—creates a perfect little greenhouse for fungi. When you’re talking about where fungal infections show up, the spaces between the toes are the standout hotspot. It’s not every day you see it, but it’s the most common, most repeatable scenario you’ll encounter in foot care.

Between the toes: the fungus’s favorite hiding place

Let me explain why this location tends to win the “most likely” badge. The webbing between toes is a small, warm cavity that can trap moisture even if the rest of the foot dries out. Skin folds there are a bit more delicate, often with tiny crevices that let sweat and moisture linger. When dermatophyte fungi—think the usual athletes’ foot culprits—get a foothold, they start to feed on the keratin in the outer skin. The result? Itchiness, cracking, and a warning sign that something isn’t right.

Yes, infections can pop up in other places too—scalp, nails, fingers—but those spots don’t offer the same steady moisture level and microenvironment as the toe webbing. The toes’ combination of warmth, dampness, and protective footwear makes them the most common stage for these fungi to perform their little theater. And let’s be honest: many of us wear closed-toe shoes, especially in cooler weather or in urban settings, which just keeps that stage lit for longer.

A quick tour of other hot spots (and why they’re less common)

• Scalp: Fungal infections here—like tinea capitis—do happen, but they’re typically more associated with children or communal living situations, shared hats, or combs. In a salon setting, you’ll see this less often than toe-web infections, and it often looks different (scaly patches, hair breaks), so it’s a distinct diagnosis.

• Under the nails: Nail fungus can be stubborn. The dark, humid environment beneath the nail can harbor fungi, but nails aren’t as forgiving as skin for rapid fungal spread. Plus, nails grow slowly, so progress or changes show up gradually.

• On the fingers: Fingernail fungus is possible, especially if the hands stay damp and nails are damaged. Still, the frequent contact with air and the tendency for nails to be cleaned and trimmed more often can slow its spread compared to toe webs.

What signs to look for when a client walks in

Spotting a fungal infection early is useful for two reasons: it helps you avoid crossing-contamination and it keeps clients comfortable. Here are telltale signs to note during a routine foot assessment:

• Itching or burning between the toes, especially after a shower or workout

• Redness, scaling, or cracking in the toe web spaces

• A smell that’s more noticeable than usual (not always present, but can accompany moisture buildup)

• Sometimes small blisters or a soggy feeling between the toes

If the infection is clearly present, you’ll want to handle the situation carefully. In some cases, a client may already be under a clinician’s care and using an antifungal treatment. In others, they may be dealing with a simple moisture issue that responds to better foot hygiene and drying. Distinguishing between simple moisture irritation and a true fungal infection is part of building trust with clients—and part of doing your job well.

How fungi take hold—and how to interrupt the cycle

We all want to help clients feel safe and cared for. Part of that is understanding how these infections start and what we can do in a salon to reduce risk:

• Moisture management is king. After a soak or shower, skin stays soft and damp longer if feet aren’t dried thoroughly. Between-the-toes skin has more folds, which means more places for moisture to linger.

• Shoes matter. Closed-toe shoes, especially ones that don’t breathe well, trap heat and humidity. If a client wears the same pair repeatedly without letting them air out, the chance of fungus-growing grows.

• Community spaces aren’t innocent. Public showers, locker rooms, and pools are moisture-rich environments where fungi can spread. It’s not just a gym issue; think of hotel shared bathrooms, spa facilities, or even busy nail salons with high foot traffic.

• Skin integrity helps or hurts. If the skin between the toes already has microcracks, it’s easier for fungi to get a foothold. That tiny damage can be enough to tip the balance.

Simple steps you can take in the salon to cut down risk

• Change the setup, not the client. Use disposable liner sheets and separate trays or footbath bowls for clients with clear toe infections. Don’t reuse tools that touched a diseased area on another client without proper sanitization.

• Clean meticulously. Tools should be cleaned and sterilized according to guidelines. Foot files and buffers used on feet should be dedicated to a single client or sterilized between uses.

• Be mindful with pedicures. If you suspect an infection, avoid aggressive scraping or aggressive cuticle work in the infected area. Treat the situation with care, and guide the client toward medical advice if necessary.

• Dry, dry, dry. After soaks, pat feet dry, paying extra attention to the spaces between the toes. Encourage clients to dry thoroughly at home too—this is a habit that pays off in the long run.

• Talk through footwear tips. Suggest breathable socks and shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics, and changing socks when feet feel damp. It’s amazing how much a small habit change can reduce risk.

What you can tell clients in plain language

• If you notice itching, burning, or cracking between the toes, it’s worth a quick check-up with a clinician. It doesn’t mean you have to panic; it means you take good care of your skin and nails—early is always better.

• Keep the skin between the toes dry. After showers or workouts, dry thoroughly. Consider a light antifungal powder if you’re prone to moisture buildup (following a clinician’s advice).

• Choose footwear wisely. Look for breathable materials and rotate shoes to give each pair time to air out.

• Nail care matters, too. Short, clean nails with smooth edges reduce places for fungi to cling. Avoid tearing or picking at the skin around the nails, which can open tiny portals for microbes.

• If you’re sharing spaces, rinse with a clean towel and dry well. In communal showers or pool areas, wear flip-flops or sandals to reduce direct contact with damp surfaces.

What to do in the chair when you see toe-area trouble

• Keep it calm. A friendly, non-alarming explanation helps a client stay relaxed. You might say, “I’m noticing some moisture and cracking between your toes. It’s common and easy to address, but it’s best checked by a clinician if it’s persistent.”

• Use clean tools. If there’s any sign of infection, don’t reuse tools on another client until they’re thoroughly sterilized. Consider using disposable implements for affected clients if appropriate.

• Focus on the basics. Gentle cleansing, careful trimming of nails, and a careful approach to filing can reduce irritation and keep the area comfortable.

• Refer when needed. If the signs are clear or if the client asks, suggest a visit to a dermatologist or physician. It’s not a failure to seek medical advice—it’s smart self-care.

A few practical ideas you can bring into daily routines

• Create a simple “foot health” reminder card for clients. A few bullets about drying feet, changing socks, and watching for itching can boost awareness.

• Offer a basic foot-cleaning routine as part of your service menu that emphasizes cleanliness and moisture control, but clearly separates cosmetic care from medical treatment.

• Stock a small, trustworthy supply of foot care products in your shop—antifungal powders or sprays (where appropriate and approved), foot scrubs, and soft towels. Having legitimate options on hand can help clients take the next step toward healthier feet.

A note on realities and boundaries

Fungal infections are a real concern, but they’re also common and manageable with the right approach. The toe web spaces are a natural hotspot because they’re warm and often damp, especially when shoes trap moisture. That doesn’t mean every foot is doomed to carry fungus; it means awareness is your first line of defense. When in doubt, a referral to a clinician is wise, and you can still deliver thoughtful, hygienic care that respects both the client and the integrity of your tools.

If you’re curious about how to keep feet and toes in top shape while you work, here are a few memorable takeaways:

• Between-the-toes infections are the most common fungal sites because of warmth and moisture. You’ll see these more in people who wear tight or non-breathable footwear.

• Other locations can host fungi too, but the risk profile and speed of spread differ. Nails, scalp, and fingers have their own patterns and cues.

• Prevention starts with moisture control, hygiene, and thoughtful tool handling. A clean space with proper sanitation goes a long way.

• When you notice signs of infection, treat with care, stay within your scope, and guide clients toward medical advice when needed.

A final thought—care that goes beyond the surface

Foot health isn’t just about looking polished; it’s about comfort, confidence, and long-term well-being. The spaces between the toes matter because they tell a story about moisture, heat, and how we care for ourselves in daily life. By staying observant, practicing strict sanitation, and guiding clients toward good habits, you help keep feet healthier and happier. And that makes your work not only about nails but about whole-body well-being—that’s a value clients notice and remember.

If you’d like, I can tailor a quick checklist you can print for your station—things to look for during a pedicure, quick hygiene reminders for clients, and a simple home-care handout. It’s all about making foot care accessible, practical, and a little bit easier to manage every day.