What can cause fungal infections in toenails?

Excess moisture is a significant factor in the development of fungal infections in toenails. Fungi thrive in warm, damp environments, making areas that are frequently moist highly susceptible to infections. For instance, wearing wet shoes or socks, walking barefoot in damp areas, or not drying the feet thoroughly after bathing can create the perfect conditions for fungi to invade the nail bed and the surrounding skin.

In contrast, while improper filing, lack of cuticle care, and using nail polish can contribute to other nail health issues, they do not directly lead to fungal infections as moisture does. Excessive filing may damage the nail's protective barrier, while cuticle care is important for overall nail health, but neither directly creates the conditions necessary for fungi to flourish. Nail polish can temporarily seal out moisture but does not inherently lead to fungal infections unless moisture is trapped beneath the polish. Thus, maintaining dry feet and avoiding conditions that promote excessive moisture are crucial in preventing fungal infections in toenails.