To prevent toenail fungus, the number one strategy is to keep the feet clean and dry. Fungus thrives in warm, moist, and dark environments, such as sweaty socks and closed shoes.

Pro tip:
If your feet sweat or have an odor, apply a regular deodorant to the bottoms of your feet once daily, and choose breathable or open‑toed footwear whenever possible. This helps reduce moisture and makes it harder for fungus to grow.

Tip 2:
If you notice dry, scaly, or peeling skin on the soles of your feet, or “whitish” skin between the toes, start using an over‑the‑counter antifungal foot spray or cream right away. Fungus often enters the toenails through infected skin, so early treatment of athlete’s foot can help protect the nails.

Tip 3:
Preventing recurrence is essential once an infected nail has been treated and cleared. Apply an antifungal spray to your feet once a week, or use properly diluted essential oils such as oregano, thyme, or clove oil on the skin. These plant‑based oils have antifungal and antibacterial properties and may help keep the skin and nails healthier for longer.