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Toenail Fungus Prevention

Have you ever had a toenail fungus? It probably wasn't very pretty. It can make your nails look yellow, thick, and cracked. They might hurt when you try to wear shoes.

Toenail fungus can be hard to treat. And if you don't take care of it, there's a chance it can lead to a more serious infection.

The best thing you can do is learn how to avoid catching a new case of it. It's not that hard to keep fungus away from your toenails. Here's what to do.

Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them with soap and water every day. Dry them off very well afterward. Get in-between your toes, too. Clean and dry feet and nails are less likely to pick up a fungus.

Don't go barefoot in public. Fungus loves to grow in warm, wet places. It also spreads easily from person to person. That's why it's key to wear shower shoes or flip flops around public pools, locker rooms, and showers.

Change your socks and shoes often. Put on a clean pair of socks every day. Give your shoes a rest and wear different pairs often, too. If your feet get sweaty when you walk or work out, change your socks and shoes as soon as you get a chance.

Use the right footwear. Fungus thrives when your feet are cooped up inside tight, hot shoes and socks. Make sure yours aren't too snug and that they give your feet room to breathe. Choose materials like leather for shoes. Look for socks made of a synthetic fiber that pulls moisture away from your feet better than cotton or wool. You'll see this called wicking.

Trim your toenails. Clip them short and straight across. Make sure you don't cut them so they dig into the sides of your toe. Don't pick at your nails or the skin next to them.

Use foot powder. Sprinkle some on after you shower and dry your feet. Some people like cornstarch. But medicated powder is a better choice. It will help protect you against fungus, including athlete's foot.

Keep tools clean. Clean and sterilize your nail clippers, files, and scissors every time after you use them. Rubbing alcohol should work. Don't share them with anyone else.

Skip the nail polish if you can. Wearing that or fake nails can sometimes trap moisture, creating a perfect place for fungus to grow. You're more likely to dodge toenail fungus if you can live without polish.

Choose a clean nail salon. Want a pedicure? Look for a salon that's licensed by your state and looks well-kept. Make sure they sterilize all their tools after each use and before each new customer. Or you can bring your own sterilized tools.

Use an anti-fungal cream. If you've had a toenail fungus before, this may help it from coming back. Rub an over-the-counter or prescription product on and in between your toenails and the bottoms of your feet once or twice a week.

Throw away old shoes and slippers. Fungus can live in them. Use an anti-fungal spray in your newer shoes every morning before you slip them on. Never share shoes or socks with other people.

Check your feet and toes regularly. If you see a change in nail color or texture, head to the doctor. This is your chance to catch a fungus in its early stages. If you think you have another infection or fungus, like athlete's foot, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do. It can turn into a toenail fungus, too, if you don't treat it.

The 9 Best Home Remedies When Your Itchy Scalp Is Truly Driving You Bananas

If you're currently in the throes of an itchy scalp, you know how uncomfortable—not to mention annoying—it can be.

Scalp itchiness is actually quite common, says Brendan Camp, MD, a Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, and it often comes with scalp irritation, redness, flaking, and sensitivity.

The most common cause is seborrheic dermatitis (aka dandruff), Dr. Camp says, which is marked by pink, dry, flaky patches of skin. It's not clear exactly what causes seborrheic dermatitis, but "it tends to be worse in the winter and may be exacerbated by stress," Dr. Camp notes.

Other causes of an itchy scalp include the following, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD):

Contact dermatitis: An itchy, flaky rash on your scalp could be an allergic reaction to a new hair- or skin-care product (think: shampoo or hair dye). The itch and rash tend to go away when you stop using the offending product.

Scalp psoriasis: If you have the skin condition plaque psoriasis, it can flare up on your scalp, causing itchiness along with silvery-white scales and dandruff-like flakes.

Atopic dermatitis: This type of eczema can cause redness and scales on the scalp, often with a burning sensation, and it's best treated with the help of a dermatologist.

Lice, scabies, or ringworm: Head lice and scabies are caused by tiny bugs that invade your scalp, while ringworm is a fungal infection. All three require a diagnosis and often need a prescription treatment to go away.

More rarely, an itchy scalp could be due to a nerve problem (especially if you don't see a rash or other outward signs) or skin cancer—both should be treated by a dermatologist.

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Whatever's causing your scratching, you're probably looking for some relief. Here, dermatologists share their best at-home remedies for an itchy scalp.

1. Zinc pyrithione

This is the active ingredient commonly found in over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos and treatments, and it can be effective in relieving symptoms of an itchy scalp. Thanks to its antifungal properties, it can help control the growth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that can exacerbate dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, explains Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology in Philadelphia. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm the skin on your scalp.

There are plenty of brands to choose from, but Dr. Ilyas recommends Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Daily Shampoo ($27.88 for a 2-pack, Amazon) and DHS Zinc Shampoo. ($12.71, Person & Covey).

2. Charcoal

Charcoal has become a popular ingredient in products targeting excess oil or impurities (both of which may lead to itchiness), Dr. Ilyas says.

"Charcoal applied to the skin is harmless and is not likely to irritate the skin, but it may possibly absorb extra oil from the skin," she says.

She recommends this treatment for people who have an oily scalp, as it is a milder alternative to help reduce the oiliness without excessively drying the skin or hair.

Try Briogeo's Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Mico-exfoliating Shampoo ($42, Amazon) along with the brand's Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Serum ($32, Amazon).

3. Coconut oil

Thanks to its moisturizing, soothing, and antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can work wonders on a dry, itchy scalp. Research, including one March 2021 study in Scientific Reports, shows that coconut oil is effective at reducing both fungus and dandruff.

You can buy coconut oil in many places, including your local grocery store. Simply warm a small amount of it in your hands or over a low stove until it becomes a liquid and then apply it directly to the scalp (make sure it's not too hot before you put it on your skin!). Massage the oil gently into your scalp with your fingers and focus on areas that are particularly itchy or irritated.

4. Apple cider vinegar

An apple cider vinegar rinse is yet another effective itchy-scalp remedy that has been used for centuries.

"It has both antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which has helped those suffering with itchiness associated with scalp psoriasis," says Marisa Garshick, MD, dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City. She suggests rinsing with a 1:1 ratio—one part apple cider vinegar and one part water—every week.

"Definitely ensure a thorough rinse of the scalp to make sure you're reaping the antimicrobial benefit," she notes.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has become one of the most common ingredients found in skin care products—and for good reason. "It is known for its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties in its activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, mites, etc.," says Dr. Ilyas. "When added to scalp exfoliators, it is likely to address some of the underlying triggers for scalp inflammation that result in scaling and itching."

Try Chamuel's All Natural Tea Tree Balm ($16.47, Amazon) or Pharm to Table Scalp Relief Tea Tree Leave-In Conditioner ($14, Amazon).

Dr. Ilyas cautions, though, that tea tree oil comes with a 1 to 2 percent chance of causing contact dermatitis. For this reason, you may want to test the product on a small patch of skin first, to see if you have a reaction. And if you use a product with tea tree oil but your itching gets worse, stop using the product right away.

6. Salicylic acid

This longtime topical acne treatment has the ability to break apart superficial skin cells to help remove dead skin from the surface. "In scalp products, it can help remove excess dry skin and scale," notes Dr. Ilyas, which can help tame itchiness.

"The great thing about salicylic acid is that it can be effective without being too irritating," she adds.

Try Act+Acre's Cold Processed Scalp Renew Exfoliator ($48, Amazon), which helps exfoliate the scalp of flaky skin, combat excess oil, and relieve scalp itch and sensitivity.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe vera extract has been used medicinally since ancient times to help soothe the skin and treat burns and cuts, notes Dr. Ilyas, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. It can work wonders on the scalp when you apply it directly in gel form, whether it's store bought or straight from the source.

She recommends massaging the aloe vera gel gently into the scalp, focusing on areas that are particularly itchy or irritated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to gain the most benefits before rinsing out.

8. Baking soda

Would you believe that a simple kitchen staple like baking soda could be the answer to your scalp itchiness? Baking soda can help exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells that may contribute to itching, explains Dr. Ilyas. Think of it like a natural way to "detox" your scalp.

An easy at-home remedy is to mix a tablespoon of baking soda with lukewarm water to form a simple paste that you can then massage into your scalp. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water before shampooing and conditioning as usual.

9. Oatmeal

Have you ever noticed that oatmeal is a popular ingredient in anti-itch creams and lotions? There's good reason for this. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the skin—including an itchy scalp.

Simply use a food processor to grind up some rolled oats into a fine powder and then mix it with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your scalp and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing it out.

What to avoid on an itchy scalp

Your scalp is still your skin, so you can easily aggravate it if you're using the wrong products or ingredients. Dr. Camp recommends avoiding undiluted essential oils to the scalp. "Essential oils need to be diluted in a carrier oil or shampoo, otherwise the high concentration of oil can cause scalp irritation and further exacerbate the problem," he says.

He also recommends avoiding the use of undiluted apple cider vinegar to the scalp, as it can cause a reaction that causes redness, swelling, pain, and worsening itch.

Also, pay attention to how often you're washing your hair. "It can be helpful to wash the hair regularly and consistently to prevent buildup but not wash too often, as this can lead to dryness and itching," says Dr. Garshick.

When to see a doctor about an itchy scalp

It's best to see a doctor if the itchiness persists despite at-home remedies, worsens, or affects your quality of life. You'll also want to make an appointment if you think the culprit is eczema, scabies, or ringworm, so your doc can draw up a treatment plan.

"While there are some shampoos and hair care products that can help to relieve an itchy scalp, it can help to be evaluated by a dermatologist as, depending on the cause, there may be some prescriptions that can help, such as prescription shampoo or topical steroids," Dr. Garshick says.

FAQ 1. Why is my head itching so badly?

There are multiple causes for an itchy scalp, including dry scalp, seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff), or contact dermatitis (an allergic reaction to certain products). Other factors that may contribute include under- or over-washing your hair, seasonal or environmental changes, and a history of skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, explains Dr. Garshick.

"As the season changes, the scalp can also experience more dryness as a result of decreased moisture in the environment," she says. "Also, if you are experiencing an itchy scalp, it's important to pay attention to any hair products you are using, as this can be a result of an allergic reaction or irritation."

2. How do you hydrate an itchy scalp?

Scalp skin can be hydrated by using a gentle shampoo free of dyes, fragrances, and sulfates because these ingredients can sometimes cause skin irritation and dryness, explains Dr. Camp. Plus: "Use a conditioner or mask that helps restore moisture to the scalp and hair shafts, such as one that contains hydrating ingredients like avocado, jojoba, argan, or olive oil," he says.

3. What oil is good for an itchy scalp?

Several oils can be helpful for an itchy scalp, including coconut oil and tea tree oil, both of which offer moisturizing, soothing, and antimicrobial properties.

4. What is the best shampoo for an itchy scalp?

The best shampoos for an itchy scalp contain active ingredients that help soothe a dry scalp while reducing irritation. Dr. Garshick recommends Dove Dermacare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($4.74, Amazon), which contains pyrithione zinc to fight dandruff and reduce flaking, while still being gentle on the scalp. "It's a good option for those with dandruff who are also experiencing dry scalp, as it also nourishes the scalp and is pH balanced, so won't leave the scalp feeling stripped or dry," she says.

Well+Good articles reference scientific, reliable, recent, robust studies to back up the information we share. You can trust us along your wellness journey.

Saxena R, Mittal P, Clavaud C, Dhakan DB, Roy N, Breton L, Misra N, Sharma VK. Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals. Sci Rep. 2021 Mar 31;11(1):7220. Doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-86454-1. PMID: 33790324; PMCID: PMC8012655.

Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.

Fungus Exodus Reviews (ALERT 2024) Does Vitality Now's Toenail Fungus Supplement

Fungus Exodus is a natural solution to relieve fungal infections on the nails of your hands and feet.

Fungus Exodus Reviews

Dr Sam Walters Fungus Exodus is an excellent dietary supplement from Vitality Now designed to promote clear and healthy nails. In this review, we will explain all aspects of its ingredients, price, benefits, side effects, customer reports, and so on.

Click to Visit the Official Website

ADVERTISEMENT What is the Fungus Exodus? Fungus Exodus is a natural solution to relieve fungal infections on the nails of your hands and feet. Toenail fungus can have life-altering effects on individuals as it causes unbearable pain and other issues with individuals. Along with the stiffening of the nails, the nails get an unpleasant appearance accompanied by an unpleasant odor depending on the level of infection you may be affected with. If you have been using supplements, creams, treatments, and other methods that have not been working out for you, Fungus Exodus is a great solution. The all-natural solution consists of a proprietary blend of ingredients that have been used for their anti-fungal and nutritional properties for several years. It has been discovered that the current treatments, including pills and creams, can not only make your problems worse but can even have the potential to affect your overall health and well-being. Thus, Fungus Exodus has been created to help neutralize these effects and provide an effective treatment without side effects. The formula for Fungus Exodus is based on a recent breakthrough study. The findings of this research are quite significant and can pave the way to the complete elimination of fungus from toenails. With time, this toenail fungus can make your feet look unpleasant and may cause you always to cover them up. Thus, it is important to treat toenail fungus right away and to use a solution like Fungus Exodus that generates results that last for a long time. The Fungus Exodus solution was introduced to the market not too long ago. However, its gaining popularity is enough proof that it works effectively. How does it work? Fungus Exodus works well by addressing the infection's underlying cause. Keep your nails free of fungus over time, drive out intruders from under your toenails, and guarantee they won't return! Fungal infections are treatable using the right methods. A new scientific breakthrough has led to a solution that provides permanent relief from fungal infections. Fungus Exodus is unlike other supplements and solutions that provide temporary relief from fungal infections that always reoccur using these solutions. When fungal infections take root on your toenails, the fungus spores underneath them. These fungi then use your own nails against you and cause the infections to spread. Once the spores start spreading, the infection gets worse, causing problems like weak nails that are brittle and emit an unpleasant odor. These can affect your self-esteem and cause pain, making walking or moving around painful. To ensure that fungal infections are treated successfully, it is important to kill any traces of the fungus and eliminate the spores of the fungus that get planted on the surface and within the layers of your nails. Fungus Exodus is the breakthrough solution that has been created by combining ingredients that kill any traces of fungs and strengthen your nails against fungal and other infections without causing any side effects. To ensure that toenail fungus is eliminated at the roots, Fungus Exodus consists of some of the best natural ingredients, including anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. The formula kills and eliminates fungus at its roots. Its ingredients also ensure that the toenails look healthy and strong once the fungus is eliminated. Finally, antioxidants and other nutrients in the formula form a protective shield on the surface of your toenails and its layers to make sure that these fungi cannot attack your toenails again. Fungus Exodus Ingredients Fungus Exodus combines crucial anti-fungal, antioxidant, and biofilm-disrupting ingredients. Learn more about the ingredients in Fungus Exodus and the evidence behind them. 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Thus, basil powder is one of the best ingredients to fight fungal infections at the roots. Its anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with fungal infections. Lemongrass Powder: This ingredient has been used for several years to treat toenail fungus at its roots. Fungus Exodus contains a special species of lemongrass that possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties. It stops the growth of fungal cells and kills them in their tracks because of the ingredient's two fungal membrane disruptors, citral and geraniol. Green Tea Extract: Green tea is famously known for its antioxidant content. It contains compounds like EGCG, which is known for its benefits. It stops fungal growth and provides a protective shield against fungal infections. Garlic Powder: Garlic contains an antifungal compound called allicin. This compound effectively inhibits fungal growth and kills fungal cells at the roots. Olive Extract: Olive extract is one of nature's best and most potent anti-fungal agents. It strengthens nails and eliminates all unpleasant effects of fungal infections. It is great for restoring the strength and appearance of your toenails. Click to Try Fungus Exodus Pros Dr Sam Walters Fungus Exodus is best recognized for its capacity to treat toenail fungus and enhance nail health, and its advantages go far beyond your feet. With its many general health benefits, this powerful vitamin can support your total well-being from head to toe. Here are some of the health benefits are mentioned below: It eliminates fungus from the roots, so make sure to eliminate any trace of the fungus from your toenails. It restores your toenails' strength and reduces the nails' brittleness. It eliminates the unpleasant odor that accompanies toenail fungus. It promotes a cleaner appearance by eliminating the build-up on the nails caused by the infection. It keeps your toenails younger by restoring their natural appearance and eliminating the unpleasant yellow and brittle nails. It keeps the feet happier by reducing the risk of reoccurrence of unpleasant fungal infections. Pricing and Discounts Fungus Exodus is a supplement by Vitality Now that has been made available at amazing deals with the best pricing. Below, you will find the best possible prices that suit you! As a part of their "Fresher Feet Initiative," Fungus Exodus has been made available at discounted rates, which helps customers save hundreds on their Fungus Exodus orders. You can easily stock up on your supply of Fungus Exodus, as these prices are an absolute steal. You can find everything about the pricing and other details related to Fungus Exodus in this section. 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Here are our top ten recommendations for keeping your toenails healthy and protecting you from fungus enemies. Examine the finer points of what not to do to acquire insight into the small routines that can cause problems with your toenails. FREE GIFT #2: From the Inside Out: Nourishing Your Toenails with Foods that Fight Fungus Go beyond band-aid fixes and discover how diet can help toenails grow strong and robust. Explore the function of particular meals that fight fungus enemies and give you the ability to feed your toenails from the inside out. We simplify how dietary decisions affect the health of your toenails and offer a guide on how to include items that combat fungus in your regular meals. Discover which nine meals to avoid for the best possible health of your toenails and which ones can worsen nail problems. Where to buy it? Fungus Exodus is only available for purchase on its official website. Hence, customers must make sure that they get Fungus Exodus from the website dedicated to it. This also saves you money as the costs of middlemen and using other methods of sales are cut off. Thus, if you wish to get your hands on the real and authentic Fungus Exodus supplement, make sure to get your supply from its official site only. Additionally, they have limited stocks at a given time, and the natural ingredients make the production process longer; hence, make sure to stock up on your supply of Fungus Exodus. Conclusion Overall, most of the Fungus Exodus customer reviews are positive and support the credibility of this effective anti-fungal solution. Fungus Exodus is a great nail fungus solution if you have been looking for a way to eliminate fungal infections that affect your self-esteem and overall health. It is important to treat infections effectively to prevent them from occurring again. Thus, Fungus Exodus is recommended if you have been suffering from toenail fungus and its unpleasant effects. So click here to get started with Fungus Exodus right away. From bolstering immune defenses to providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, promoting digestive health, and enhancing heart health, Fungus Exodus is a versatile ally in pursuing holistic wellness. Its multifaceted approach caters to the diverse needs of health-conscious individuals, ensuring that it remains an indispensable component of their daily routines. An exceptional 180-day refund policy reinforces its dedication to fostering trust and confidence among its valued customers. Click to Order Fungus Exodus at a Discounted Price Frequently Asked Questions Yes, Fungus Exodus works well because it contains extracts of some of the best anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and immune-boosting ingredients. The ingredients stop fungal growth at the roots, kill the fungal cells, and shield the nails from fungi. What is the recommended dosage for Fungus Exodus? Fungus Exodus is a daily-use supplement, and it has been recommended that 2 capsules of the formula be taken daily. How long does it take for the results to appear? Depending on the severity of your infection and how your body interacts with the nutrients, it may take between three to six months to restore the appearance and health of your toenails completely. Is there a money-back guarantee? Yes, every order of Fungus Exodus is backed by a money-back guarantee of 180 days. This duration is enough for you to test Fungus Exodus for yourself. If Fungus Exodus doesn't provide you with the promised results, you can apply for a refund by contacting them via call or email. Get the refund initiated, and get all your money back—no questions asked! Click to Order Fungus Exodus at a Discounted Price   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this sponsored article are those of the sponsor/author/agency and do not represent the stand and views of Mid-Day Group.Mid-Day Group disclaims any and all liability to any party, company or product for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from the use of this content.

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