Monsoon hygiene: Keep your toes and nails healthy and clean during rainy season

Rainy season nail care: Clean under your nails regularly using a nail brush to remove dirt and debris (Image: Canva)

During the monsoon season, maintaining clean and healthy toes and nails becomes crucial as damp and humid conditions can exacerbate the risk of fungal and bacterial infections. Neglecting proper foot and nail care can lead to discomfort, infections, and other complications. Here’s how you can ensure your toes and nails stay healthy and clean throughout the rainy season.

Unclean toenails and toes can give birth to bacteria and fungi, leading to conditions like athlete's foot, fungal nail infections(onychomycosis), and bacterial infections. These infections thrive in moist environments, making the monsoon season particularly risky for foot hygiene.

By following these practices, you can ensure your toes and nails stay healthy and clean throughout the rainy season:

Regular foot hygiene: Properly wash and dry your feet daily, especially after exposure to rain or wet conditions. Use a mild soap and gently scrub between toes to remove dirt and sweat.

Trim your nails: Keep toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Avoid cutting nails too short or rounding the corners, as this can lead to ingrown toenails, which are prone to infections.

Choose footwear carefully: Opt for breathable shoes made of materials that dry quickly, like mesh or canvas. Avoid wearing wet shoes or socks for prolonged periods as they create an ideal environment for fungal growth.

Apply anti-fungal powder: Use antifungal foot powders or talcum powder to keep feet dry and prevent fungal infections. Focus on areas prone to moisture, such as between toes and the soles of the feet.

Use moisturiser: Keep your feet moisturised with a foot cream or lotion to prevent dryness and cracking, which can provide entry points for infections. Avoid applying moisturizer between toes, as it can create excess moisture.

Practice nail care: Clean under your nails regularly using a nail brush to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using sharp objects to clean under nails, as they can cause injury and increase the risk of infections.

Rotate footwear: Rotate between different pairs of shoes and other footwear to allow them to dry completely between wears. Consider using shoe deodorisers or inserts that absorb moisture and odors.