![]() ![]() The type of cortisone available over the counter is much weaker and will not have the same effect. Obviously, the medication I use is a prescription treatment. This treatment has an anti-inflammatory effect. In those cases, my treatment is an application of a potent cortisone spray under the nail via a plastic tube. There are cases when I will allow a patient with keratin buildup to continue having acrylic applied, even on the affected nail, unless there are more serious nail problems, such as bacterial infection or excessive separation. Cover the defective nail polish (no acrylics) until it heals. You should keep the client’s nails trimmed to minimize trauma. ![]() There is no need for antifungal medications. You can suggest the client apply an over-the-counter cortisone spray -hold close to the underside of the nail and spray into the separation-until she can see her doctor. In the salon, care for the client with significant nail separation should begin with removing the offending product from the affected nails until a doctor approves reapplication. She should also avoid prolonged wetness and bandages on her hands. I usually tell a patient with keratin buildup not to dig under the nail as that will only make the air pocket bigger. There are medications to treat the keratin buildup and its complications, but the patient’s participation in her own treatment is essential. But the great majority of dermatologists, to whom you should refer this client, will recognize that this is not a fungal problem. A general physician’s knowledge of nails is limited and he may accept the diagnosis of fungus and treat it. Still, patients, cosmetologists, and even some doctors cling to thje idea that this green invader ia a fungal infection. At its most destructive, it causes a green discoloration. However, this kind of mold doesn’t cause, or even add to, nail disease. Mold is a type of fungus that grows on anything dead or moist-you may have seen this phenomenon on oranges or bread gone bad. In my extensive studies, I have never found a dermatophyte (the strain of fungus capable of eating the skin and nail) in any of these nails. ![]() Nail separation is not caused by dirty implements, but if the condition is indeed a fungus, contamination may certainly be to blame. My patients often tell me that they believe the disorder has been caused by a manicurist using dirty implements. Once the keratin thickens and nail separates and becomes discolored, the disorder is often mislabelled a fungal infection. The separated nail is also more susceptible to injury because it is not as firmly attached as it should be. Bacteria or mold can grow in the area, causing a secondary colonization (simple growth) or an infection, which can result in discoloration of the nail plate (see last month’s column). Several problems can develop when the nail plate separates from the nail bed. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |