Yellow, Thick Toenails? Causes of Fungal Nails and How to Care for Them

Yellow, thick or crumbly toenails are very often caused by a fungal nail infection (onychomycosis). It’s common, especially as we get older, and it’s usually harmless. But it can be stubborn and embarrassing, and it can spread to other nails.

Signs of a fungal nail

• Yellow, brown or white discolouration
• A thick nail that is hard to cut
• Brittle, crumbly or ragged edges
• The nail lifting away from the skin
• A slight smell

What causes fungal nails?

Fungi love warm, damp places. Common causes include:

• Sweaty feet and closed shoes worn all day
• Walking barefoot in gyms, pools and shared showers
• Athlete’s foot that spreads to the nail
• A damaged nail
• Diabetes, poor circulation or a weak immune system

Daily care tips

1. Keep feet clean and completely dry, especially between the toes.
2. Change socks daily, or more often if your feet sweat. Cotton is best.
3. Air your shoes out and rotate pairs.
4. Trim nails straight across, and gently file down thick areas.
5. Don’t share nail clippers, towels or shoes.
6. Wear slops in public showers and around pools.
7. Treat athlete’s foot early.

Be patient: nails grow slowly

A toenail grows only about 1 to 2mm a month, so it can take 12 to 18 months for a whole new, healthy-looking nail to grow out. Use a treatment consistently, even after the nail starts looking better.

A targeted nail care spray

Herbay NailFix is a botanical spray with tea tree, clove, lemon and eucalyptus oils. Spray it directly onto the nail twice a day to help improve the look of yellow, thick and brittle nails.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor or podiatrist if you have diabetes or poor circulation, if the skin around the nail is red, painful or swollen, or if many nails are affected. Your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medicine for severe cases.

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This article is general information, not medical advice. Herbal products are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a registered health professional. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or take chronic medication.