Groomed, training and getting infected: more young people are dealing with nail fungus

If in the past nail fungus was considered a problem that characterized mainly older people, today dermatologists are meeting more and more young, active, and groomed patients who are dealing with the phenomenon. It may sound surprising, but in many cases, it is not about neglect or poor hygiene. On the contrary, it is precisely some of the habits identified with a healthy lifestyle, self-care, and wellness that create ideal conditions for the development of fungi.

The reason for this is simple: fungi love moisture, heat, and a closed environment. And when you add to that long hours in sports shoes, training, pools, spas, pedicures, and gel polish – you get a formula that fungi definitely know how to exploit. Research also already identifies the trend. In recent years, research evidence has accumulated that strengthens the link between grooming and sports habits and nail fungus. A study published in 2025 in the journal Scientific Reports found a high prevalence of nail fungus among women who used nail cosmetic products. Among the participants, links were found between frequent use of polish and an increased risk of fungus, alongside other risk factors such as trauma to the nail.

At the same time, medical reviews in the field of sports medicine indicate that athletes and trainees are at an increased risk of nail fungus due to a combination of sweating, repeated friction, injuries or trauma to the nail, closed shoes, and public showers. In other words: it is precisely the people who maintain an active and healthy lifestyle who may be more exposed to the risk factors.

The gym – the place where fungi feel at home

Physical training is one of the best things we can do for our body, but less so for our nails. Closed sports shoes, damp socks, and accumulated sweat create a warm and moist environment that fungi especially love. When you add to that locker rooms and shared showers, the risk increases even more. Also, small injuries caused by repeated pressure on the nail during running, prolonged walking, or intense training can allow easier penetration of fungi.

How to be careful at the beauty salon

It is important to clarify: gel polish does not cause fungus. But when the nails are covered continuously for long months, it is harder to notice changes that occur under the surface. Discoloration, thickening, the appearance of spots, or the beginning of a fungus can remain hidden for a longer time. In addition, aggressive removal of gel polish or tiny injuries around the nail during a manicure and pedicure can damage the natural protective layer of the nail. This is also the reason why it is recommended to ensure that the work tools in the nail salon undergo disinfection and sterilization as required.

Pools, spas, and water parks: the danger that starts from the floor

The Israeli summer brings with it many activities around water, but also an increased risk of exposure to fungi. Wet floors in showers, locker rooms, and around the pool are among the most common sources of infection. Fungi can pass from person to person through shared surfaces, especially when there are small cracks, dryness, or tiny injuries on the skin. Therefore, flip-flops are much more than a summer item. They are one of the simplest and most effective means of protection for the feet.

What are the first signs to look out for?

Nail fungus does not appear in one day. It usually starts with relatively subtle changes: color change to white, yellow, or brown; thickening of the nail; brittleness or crumbling; loss of natural shine; change in shape or texture; discomfort inside the shoe. Many tend to think that this is only an aesthetic problem, but the longer you wait, the more prolonged and complex the treatment may become. The first step is a diagnosis by a dermatologist, where treatment will be adjusted according to the severity of the infection and the condition of the nail, from local preparations to drug treatment in more advanced cases.

Among the local solutions, Amtricks also stands out, an over-the-counter preparation intended for the treatment of nail fungus and for improving the appearance of the damaged nail. The preparation creates a thin layer on the nail, helps in the penetration of active ingredients into the nail itself, and combines treatment with a gradual aesthetic improvement of the nail's appearance.

Rules: how to keep your nails healthy even in summer

• Do not walk barefoot in pools, spas, and public showers.

• Make sure to dry your feet well, especially between the toes.

• Make sure to trim your nails.

• Change socks after training and wash them at a high temperature (above 60 degrees Celsius).

• Ventilate sports shoes regularly.

• Avoid tight shoes.

• Maintain hygiene in pedicure and manicure salons.

• Remove gel polish from time to time and check the condition of the nails.

• Do not ignore changes in the appearance of the nail.

Nail fungus is not a decree of fate. Awareness, hygiene, and early detection can make all the difference. Because just like we invest in our skin, hair, and fitness, it is time to pay a little more attention to our nails as well.