A nail infection is more than a cosmetic concern — it is an infection of the nail bed and nail plate. Commonly known as onychomycosis (tinea unguium), it is primarily caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. Nail infections are extremely common, affecting more than 17% of the global population. Various forms can be triggered by trauma, allergic reactions, and chronic conditions — all of which increase risk, particularly for people with diabetes. In up to 50% of cases, bacteria may also be responsible.

Nail infections don't just affect appearance — they can cause structural damage, discolouration, and even complete nail loss. Severe cases may take 10–12 months to fully resolve. Contrary to popular belief, nail fungal infections have little to do with personal hygiene. Everyday factors — such as minor injuries to the fingers, wearing overly tight footwear, or leaving nails exposed — can all increase vulnerability. Walking barefoot in public spaces is another common cause.

Use ClearZal® Foot Sanitiser daily to clean your feet and footwear, following the instructions in the Directions for Use section. This helps eliminate the fungi and bacteria that can cause foot infections, including athlete's foot.

01 – Keep nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria and debris from accumulating beneath the nail. 02 – Trim nails straight across with a slight curve at the tip using sharp scissors or clippers to avoid rough edges. 03 – Always use clean nail clippers to prevent snagging. 04 – Disinfect your nail tools after each use. 05 – Use ClearZal® BAC Nail Treatment or spray ClearZal® Foot Sanitiser onto nail tool surfaces. 06 – Never share nail files or tools, or use ones that have not been properly sterilised. 07 – If you have an ingrown nail, we recommend seeking medical advice.

Our feet, toes, and toenails are often the most neglected part of the body — yet they need proper care to stay healthy. 01 – Wash your feet daily with warm water and soap, and dry them thoroughly. For extra protection, use ClearZal® Foot Cleanser — a liquid soap containing benzalkonium chloride and tea tree oil that kills 99.9% of fungi, bacteria, and viruses. 02 – Keep nails at a healthy length; cutting them too short can lead to ingrown toenails. 03 – Apply a nourishing foot cream such as ClearZal® FOOT FOOD™, formulated with aloe vera, rosemary, lavender, and thyme. 04 – Wear well-fitting socks and avoid styles with internal seams. 05 – Rotate your footwear — avoid wearing the same shoes every day. 06 – Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. 07 – For calluses or hardened skin, use ClearZal® Callus Cream or ClearZal® Hard Skin Remover, clinically proven to reduce calluses by 93%.