Nail Fungus Pictures - Appearance of nail infection

Home > Image Gallery

What Does Nail Fungus Look Like?

This infection occurs when fungus infects one or more of your nails. Nail fungus pictures clearly show how a nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your nail. It is more common in the toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause discoloration, thickening and crumbling edges which are an unsightly and potentially painful problem. The nail may sometimes even turn black as the infection spreads to the whole nail if left untreated. Nail fungus images illustrate how similar nail fungus can affect either your finger nail or your toenail.

The medical term for nail fungus is Onychomycosis. Dermatophytes are tiny organisms which cause this disorder and they become embedded in the space between the nail base and the nail so that the protective protein layer called keratin is destroyed. As there is no nail protection, the fungus can spread to all the surrounding areas not only affecting that particular nail but other nails too. Nail fungus is more common in middle age and the elderly.

Once you have diagnosed your nail fungus by comparing your own condition to the nail fungus images displayed, treat nail fungus as quickly as possible along with paying attention to your diet as this is very important too. You should include more probiotics – that is good bacteria – in your diet which can be in the form of yoghurt. At the same time, reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates such as sugar, dairy produce and vinegar. Keep your hands and nails dry as fungus thrives in warm most areas.

Also read:

Does Exposure to Sunlight Help Toenail Fungus?

Advanced nail fungus	Distalsubungual nail fungus infection	Distalsubungual nail fungus
Nail fungus ingrown toenail	Nail fungus toes	Advanced toenail fungus

How to Identify Toenail Fungus by Appearance

Our toenail fungus pictures are designed to help you recognise the most common signs of infection. If your nails look like the images on this page, you may be dealing with toenail fungus and could benefit from starting treatment with H-Nail Fungus and improving your foot care routine.

• Color changes: The nail often develops white, yellow, or yellow-brown patches, usually starting at the tip or sides of the nail and slowly spreading.
• Thickened nail: The affected toenail becomes noticeably thicker than your other nails and may be hard to trim.
• Crumbling or flaky edges: The edge of the nail may look ragged, crumbly or flaky, with small pieces breaking off when you cut or bump the nail.
• Dull, distorted appearance: Healthy nails are smooth and slightly shiny. A fungal nail often looks dull, uneven, and may become misshapen or curved.
• Lifting from the nail bed: As the infection progresses, the nail can start lifting away from the skin underneath, leaving a small gap where debris can collect.
• Changes in nail color over time: In more advanced cases, the whole nail can turn yellow, brown, grey or even black as the fungus spreads through the entire nail plate.
• Unpleasant odor: Some people notice a mild to strong odor coming from the affected nail, especially when shoes and socks are removed.
• One or more nails affected: Toenail fungus usually starts in one nail (often the big toe) but can slowly spread to the other toenails if not treated.

Toenail fungus usually develops slowly. At first you may only see a small patch of discoloration in one corner of the nail. Over months, the changes can spread across the nail and into neighbouring nails if the infection is left untreated.

It is important to remember that not every thick, discoloured nail is caused by fungus. Nail injuries, psoriasis and certain skin conditions can look similar. If you are unsure, your healthcare provider can examine the nail and, if needed, send a small clipping to a laboratory for testing.

Early Signs of Toenail Fungus

Look closely at your toenails if you suspect a problem. Early signs of toenail fungus can include:

• A narrow white or yellow streak at the edge or on one side of the nail.
• A small cloudy, chalky area on the surface of the nail.
• Slight thickening at the tip of the nail that is different from your other toes.
• Mild discoloration that doesn’t improve as the nail grows out.

Starting treatment early – before the whole nail becomes thick and crumbly – makes it easier to improve the appearance of your toenails.

Advanced Toenail Fungus

When toenail fungus has been present for a long time, the changes become more obvious:

• The nail is very thick and difficult or uncomfortable to cut.
• The nail may curl, become distorted or press into nearby toes.
• The nail may crack or split and catch on socks or bed sheets.
• The nail can become painful when you wear closed shoes or walk for long periods.
• In severe cases, parts of the nail may break off or separate completely from the nail bed.

If you notice these advanced changes, it is still possible to support nail health and comfort, but you should expect it to take many months for a healthier-looking nail to grow through.

Using H-Nail Fungus for Toenail Fungus

H-Nail Fungus is a gentle, homeopathic topical formula from Healing Natural Oils that is designed to be applied directly to the affected nail and surrounding skin. Many people choose it as part of a natural approach to supporting healthier-looking nails and improving the appearance of discoloured, thickened toenails.

For best results:

• Apply H-Nail Fungus regularly as directed on the product label.
• Keep feet clean and dry, changing socks daily and allowing shoes to air out between wears.
• Trim nails straight across and file down thick areas carefully (using your own dedicated nail tools).
• Avoid sharing nail clippers, files or footwear with others.

If you have diabetes, circulation problems, a weakened immune system or very painful nails, always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment, including natural products.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toenail Fungus

Can toenail fungus go away on its own?

Toenail fungus rarely goes away on its own. Without treatment, the infection usually stays the same or slowly worsens over time. Starting a consistent treatment routine and practicing good foot hygiene gives you the best chance of improving the appearance of your nails.

Is toenail fungus contagious?

Yes, fungal infections can spread from person to person and from one nail to another. You can pick up the fungus by walking barefoot in damp, shared areas such as locker rooms, public showers or around swimming pools. It can also spread through shared socks, shoes, nail clippers or nail files. Keeping your feet clean and dry and not sharing personal items can help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

Does toenail fungus hurt?

In the early stages, toenail fungus is often painless and may only cause cosmetic changes. As the nail thickens and distorts, it can become uncomfortable or painful, especially in tight shoes or when pressure is applied to the nail. If you experience significant pain, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider.

How is toenail fungus different from athlete’s foot?

Toenail fungus affects the nail plate and the skin directly under the nail. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. The two conditions are related and can occur together – athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails and vice versa. Treating both the nails and the surrounding skin is important if you have signs of both.

How do I know if my thick or discoloured nail is really fungus?

Fungus is a common cause of thick, yellow or brown nails, but it is not the only cause. Injuries, psoriasis, eczema and some medications can also change the way the nail looks. If your nail is painful, very thick, or not improving with home care, your healthcare provider can take a small nail clipping and have it tested to confirm whether fungus is present.

When should I see a doctor or podiatrist?

You should talk to a healthcare provider if:

• The entire nail is affected or several nails are involved.
• You have diabetes, poor circulation or a weakened immune system.
• The nail is very painful, red or swollen, or if there is pus.
• Your nails are affecting your ability to walk comfortably or wear shoes.
• You have tried home or over-the-counter treatments for several months without improvement.

A doctor or podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and discuss all your treatment options, which may include topical products, oral medications or, in severe cases, removing the nail.

How long does it take for a toenail to look normal again?

Toenails grow slowly. Even with the best treatment and foot care, it can take 6 to 12 months for a new, clearer nail to grow from the base to the tip. During this time, it is important to continue your chosen treatment, follow good hygiene practices and be patient as the healthy nail gradually replaces the damaged one.

What can I do at home to help prevent toenail fungus?

You can lower your risk of getting toenail fungus or having it come back by:

• Keeping your feet clean and thoroughly drying them after bathing.
• Wearing breathable socks and shoes and changing socks every day.
• Choosing footwear that is not too tight around the toes.
• Wearing sandals or flip-flops in public showers, locker rooms and around pools.
• Not sharing nail clippers, nail files or footwear with other people.
• Treating athlete’s foot promptly if you notice itching, redness or peeling between the toes.

Combining these habits with regular use of H-Nail Fungus can help support healthier-looking toenails and reduce the chances of future fungal infections.

Have Nail Fungus? Learn more about our nail fungus product - H-Nail Fungus

Information on health conditions: