PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS

05/10/2012     

Nail Polish Can Mask Medical Issues: DC Podiatrist

“People like to have pedicures done straight through the summer or even all year long, but the problem with that is nails don’t get an opportunity to breathe,” says Washington podiatrist Dr. Howard Osterman, who notes that chemicals in nail polish can eat away at the top layer of toenails, resulting in changes in color or texture that may or may not be a sign of a true medical issue. “Fungus grows in dark, moist environments, so anything that doesn’t let air dry it out [such as nail polish] can allow fungus to fulminate underneath,” he explains, noting that clear nail polish isn’t any better than colored, since it’s the enamel itself that’s the problem. 

Dr. Howard Osterman

Osterman points out that pretty hues can also mask infections, skin cancer and other medical problems, and he suggests at the very least changing your polish frequently, so you can keep a close eye on the state of your nails.

Source: Carolyn Butler, The Washington Post [5/7/12]