Candida is a naturally occurring fungus on the body. Some types of Candida can grow too fast. This can cause a yeast infection known as candidiasis, which often affects the skin or nails.

In this article, we explain what Candida is, the symptoms of candidiasis of the skin and nails, and how to treat and prevent this infection.

Candidiasis in folds of the skinShare on Pinterest
Candidiasis can develop in folds of the skin and places where there is moisture and warmth.

Candida is a yeast that is present on the skin and the mucous membranes, which line the inside of many of the structures in the body.

It is usually harmless, but if changes occur in the body to create the right environment, it can cause an infection.

There are about 150 types of Candida.

More than 20 types, including the most common species Candida albicans, can cause infections in humans. These infections can occur in the nails, skin, and mucous membranes throughout the body.

Candidiasis is an infection with Candida.

Many Candida infections are localized and only affect one part of the body. For example, cutaneous candidiasis affects the skin, while onychomycosis is an infection of the nails.

Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) refers to a group of disorders that feature persistent, debilitating, and recurrent infections of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.

CMC results from an immunodeficiency problem, which occurs due to genetic factors.

Thrush, or oropharyngeal candidiasis, is another type of Candida infection, which affects the mouth or throat. It is also possible to have a Candida infection of the vagina, which people tend to refer to as a yeast infection.

Invasive candidiasis is a more severe condition that is different than candidiasis of the skin and nails because it is not localized. Invasive candidiasis can affect the blood, brain, eyes, and other organs in the body, and it can be life-threatening.

Candida thrives in a warm, humid environment, and a reduced immune response or other conditions can allow an infection to develop.

The following factors make infection more likely:

  • hot or humid weather
  • poor hygiene
  • infrequent diaper or undergarment changes
  • tight clothing that rubs
  • synthetic fabric that does not breathe well
  • antibiotics that alter the body’s natural Candida balance
  • frequent exposure to irritating substances
  • doing a job that involves spending time in the water
  • having an inflammatory disease, such as psoriasis, that occurs in skin folds
  • immunosuppression due to the use of corticosteroids or specific medications
  • pregnancy
  • health conditions that affect the immune system, such as diabetes and some hormonal conditions, including particular thyroid problems, Addison’s disease, and Cushing’s disease

Candidiasis affects the skin and nails differently.

In the skin

Candidiasis of the skin can lead to:

  • redness
  • rash
  • scaling
  • swelling

These symptoms often occur in areas of the body that are more difficult to keep dry and in places where skin touches skin.

Some examples of these sensitive areas include:

  • in folds of skin
  • under the breasts
  • the groin
  • the armpits
  • the spaces between fingers and toes
  • the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis

In some people, the infection can also affect the mouth and throat.

The infection tends to itch and feel uncomfortable, but treatment can relieve the symptoms.

In the nails

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Fungal nail infections, such as candidiasis, can cause discoloration and weakening of the nails.

Candidiasis of the nails can result in the following symptoms in the fingernails or toenails:

  • brittle, easily breakable, or splitting nails
  • white, brown, or yellow discoloration
  • debris collecting under the nail
  • thinning nails with a dry, powdery surface
  • the nail lifting up and becoming detached
  • the nail splitting or crumbling

Without treatment, the affected nails can become thicker and more discolored.

This condition is not usually painful, but, if the infection progresses in the toenails, it may hurt to wear shoes.

Treatment for nail and skin conditions is often essential to prevent an infection from spreading to other parts of the body and other people.

People who already have another health condition, such as diabetes, should seek prompt treatment if they develop a skin or nail infection, as it is more likely that complications will arise.

Treatment for nail infections

Nail infections can be challenging to resolve.

Dr. Phoebe Rich of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends the following three steps to treat Candida of the nails:

  1. Investigating and resolving any possible underlying medical causes.
  2. Keeping the nails dry and away from harsh substances or water, for example, by wearing gloves.
  3. Strengthening the nails with petroleum jelly or thicker-based lubricants rather than watery lotions.

If treatment for a nail infection does not resolve the problem, surgical nail removal may be the best option. A new nail will grow, but it takes time.

Vitamin B with biotin may also help brittle nails. This is a long-term solution that involves taking a daily supplement.

However, the United States Office for Dietary Supplements (ODS) note that more research is necessary to confirm the safety and effectiveness of biotin supplements.

If the condition persists, a specialist may prescribe an oral medication to help with the problem.

Treatment for skin infections

Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments for the skin include:

  • miconazole
  • clotrimazole
  • oxiconazole

Keeping the skin dry increases the chance of a quick recovery from the infection. This may be more difficult in some regions of the body. Powders can decrease moisture during and after treatment.

When to see a doctor

If the condition does not improve with OTC remedies, it is vital to see a doctor or dermatologist.

Prescription medication may be necessary, or there might be an underlying cause that needs addressing.

The doctor will ask about the person’s medical history and examine any symptoms. For skin infections, they may also take a skin scrape for testing in a laboratory.

They may prescribe:

  • a drying agent if necessary, such as miconazole powder
  • a topical antifungal agent to apply directly to the skin

Treatment for CMC usually involves a topical antifungal medication, but some people may need a long-term oral medication instead. If an underlying condition is responsible, such as an antibody deficiency, this may require specific treatment.

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Wearing flip-flops at the pool reduces the risk of catching or passing on fungal infections.

Some measures can help reduce the likelihood of infection.

It is essential for people to keep the skin and nails dry and clean. Changing sweaty or wet clothing, washing with soap, and drying well will help avoid the growth and spread of yeast.

When visiting a beauty salon, people should choose a reputable one with established hygiene standards where it is less likely that bacteria will move from customer to customer.

In public pools and showers, wearing flip-flops can help stop infections from spreading.

People with a weakened immune system, diabetes, or other health conditions should see a doctor if they develop symptoms of candidiasis.