Discoloration and thickening are key signs of a nail fungal infection

Nails tell a story. They whisper about health, habits, and how well we care for ourselves and others. For manicurists, reading those stories correctly isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. One of the most common nail clues is a fungal infection. Let’s unpack what that looks like, what it isn’t, and what to do when you spot it in the salon chair.

What a fungal nail infection actually looks like

If you’ve ever trimmed a nail and noticed a change in color, you’re not imagining things. A fungal infection often shows up as discoloration and thickening. Nails can turn yellow, brown, or even pale white. They might look clouded or opaque, not glassy or clean. Along with color shifts, the nail may become thicker, tougher to trim, and sometimes crumbly at the edges. In some cases, the infection can lift the nail away from the bed a bit, causing discomfort or a brittle, crumbly edge that flakes off.

Here’s the real point: color plus texture changes are the red flags. It’s not just about one symptom—it's the combination that should grab your attention. When you see a nail that’s thickened and discolored, that’s a sign to pause and assess further.

What it isn’t: signs that are easy to misread

Not every nail change means a fungal issue. Bright red color, for example, is more typical of trauma or other conditions than a fungal infection. White spots can be a result of minor bumps or earlier damage and aren’t reliable as a sole indicator of fungus. And the smell of nail polish isn’t a medical clue about an infection—it’s about the product itself, not the nail’s health status.

In short, don’t assume every odd shade is a fungus. It’s the combination of color change with thickening (and sometimes brittleness) that points you in the right direction.

Why this matters for you as a manicurist

Salons aren’t just about pretty nails; they’re health spaces. Fungal infections can spread if they’re not handled properly, especially when tools are shared or not adequately sanitized. The moment you notice discoloration and thickening, your responsibility shifts from “make it look good” to “protect the client and everyone else who touches these nails.”

That means a few practical moves:

• Stop the service if you see signs of a fungal nail infection.

• Avoid aggressive filing or soaking that could irritate the area or spread particles.

• Use a fresh, single-use tool for any necessary close work near the cuticle, and sanitize all reusable tools.

• Sanitize the workspace thoroughly after each client, and consider replacing shared items that come into contact with the nail plate.

How to handle the conversation with a client

Addressing potential infection can feel awkward, but it’s a conversation worth having. A calm, nonjudgmental approach works best. Something like:

• “I’m noticing changes to your nail color and thickness. I want to make sure we protect your health and the health of others. For a nail like this, I’d recommend seeing a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.”

• Offer practical next steps: keep nails clean and dry, avoid picking at the nail, don’t share nail tools, and consider a temporary stop to cosmetic work on that nail until a clinician confirms it’s safe to proceed.

Documentation matters, too. Note the signs you observed, the date, and the client’s plan to consult a clinician. Clear notes help you support the client and maintain safety standards.

What to do in the salon right now

If you suspect a fungal nail infection, here are some grounded, actionable steps you can take without overthinking it:

• Pause service on the affected nails. Don’t cut back into the nail bed or aggressively trim the abnormal nail.

• Use disposable implements whenever possible. If you must use a shared tool, ensure it’s properly sterilized or disposed of after use.

• Keep a clean, dry area for other clients. Fungus loves moisture, and a damp workspace doesn’t help anyone.

• Wear gloves if you’re giving any care near the cuticle to reduce risk of transmission.

• If the client wants a polish or enhancement on other nails, proceed with caution, but be sure your overall sanitation protocol remains strict.

Educating clients about home care

What you tell clients matters as much as what you do in the chair. Encourage habits that keep nails healthy and reduce fungal risk:

• Dry thoroughly after showers or swimming. Moisture left under the nail bed is a friendly environment for fungi.

• Avoid sharing nail tools or buffers. Each person’s tools should stay with them.

• Use breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks, especially if the client has a history of fungal issues on feet.

• If nails are thick or discolored, suggest medical guidance to confirm the cause before pursuing cosmetic corrections.

• When using at-home products, pick reputable antifungal options only after a clinician’s guidance. Over-the-counter products aren’t a guaranteed fix and can complicate a real diagnosis.

A quick, practical mental model for signs and response

Let me explain it with a simple checklist you can keep in your head:

• Color change? Yes. Thickening? Yes. Brittle or crumbly edges? Often yes. Then it’s time to pause and assess.

• Bright red color? More from trauma or infection elsewhere; not a fungal hallmark.

• White spots? Could be trauma; not a stand-alone sign of fungus.

• Smell of polish or product? Not a clue about infection status; it’s product-related.

If any two of the fungus indicators align, consider it a red flag worth referring out. And prefer transparency: invite the client to obtain a clinician’s opinion before continuing with cosmetic nail work on that nail.

Real-world tools, routines, and rituals that help

You’ll hear a lot about sanitation in this field, and for good reason. A few concrete routines keep everyone safer:

• Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol spray to wipe down implements and surfaces between clients.

• Invest in a nail brush for each client or use disposable sponges to clean under nails without cross-contamination.

• Keep a labeled, dedicated bin for disposable files and buffers. Reuse is a no-go when signs of infection exist.

• Consider a set-based system: one clean set for normal nails, another reserved for suspected infection cases if your state or local guidelines allow it.

• When in doubt, err on the side of caution. If an infection is suspected, delaying cosmetic work on that nail is responsible and professional.

A few tangents that still tie back to the main point

Nail health isn’t just about avoiding infections; it’s about promoting resilience. The nail plate acts like a tiny helmet for the living skin underneath. When fungus takes hold, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a sign that the natural balance is off somewhere along the line. Foot health matters here too because fungi often start there, traveling up the nail bed. That’s why some clients notice issues first on their feet or toes, then on their nails.

Another tangent: the state board standards and licensing reality aren’t just about passing tests. They’re about creating shared expectations for safety and care. When you spot something unusual, you’re not tattling; you’re upholding the standard so that every client gets a safe, quality experience.

Debunking common myths

• Myth: If it looks gross, I should just treat it with a polish. Reality: cosmetic products won’t fix an infection and can mask issues or spread it.

• Myth: Fungus only harms toenails. Reality: fingernails can be affected too, and early detection saves trouble later.

• Myth: All nail infections demand medical treatment. Reality: a clinician should diagnose and guide treatment, especially if you’re seeing signs of thickening, lifting, and color change.

Pulling it all together

Nails are more than a surface detail; they’re a living indicator of health. For manicurists, spotting a fungal infection early—and handling it with care—protects clients and keeps your work space safe. The signs you’re trained to notice are real clues: discoloration paired with thickening is the most telling pattern. Color alone, or texture alone, can mislead. The right move is to pause, discuss with the client, sanitize thoroughly, and guide them toward professional care if needed.

If you’re ever unsure, ask a colleague or refer to local guidelines for safe practice. You’ll find that the best care blends technical skill with thoughtful communication. And yes, those small, careful steps—sanitizing tools, using disposable items, and setting clear boundaries—make all the difference in the long run.

A final thought

Good nail care is a partnership. You bring technique and hygiene; clients bring their own stories and health goals. When you recognize a sign like discoloration and thickening, you’re not overstepping. You’re helping someone protect their nails for the future, one careful conversation at a time. And that, more than anything, has the power to set you apart as a professional who cares as much about health as about appearance.