1. Nail Fungus
Nail Mold

2. Fungi
Fungi are vegetable parasites including all types of fungus or mold
Highly contagious
Transmitted through unsanitary implements and work conditions

3. Fungi Can be spread from nail to nail or person to person
Avoided by proper disinfection and sanitation practices
Appear under nails as cheesy, sticky residue
the residue progresses to a dry and crusty texture under nail plate
must be referred to a physician

4. Mold
Discoloration between nail plate and artificial enhancements have been thought to be mold; however, it is actually a bacterial infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
This bacteria can grow out of control and cause infection under certain conditions

5. Causes of Infection Contaminated implements
Moisture trapped between an unsanitized natural nail and artificial
Moisture produces the anaerobic ( no oxygen ) condition sought by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

6. Indications of Infections
A yellow-green spot that becomes darker in advanced stages
Yellow-green spot changes from yellow to green to brown to black
Bad odor if infected for a long period of time
Nail plate sensitive to touch

7. Exposing the natural nail
Remove artificial nail enhancements
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is killed by exposure to air
Refer client to physician

8. Removal of artificial enhancement
Wear gloves during removal of artificial nails
Follow manufactures directions
Upon completion, discard all products and tools that cannot be disinfected
Disinfect all others

9. Removal of artificial enhancement
File around stain
Soaking off
Use alcohol to remove and dry contaminated moisture from nail surface
Remaining stain cannot be removed and must be allowed to grow out