- We focus on what has worked for 10,000+ patients & medical research.
- The #1 goal is to keep costs LOW and treatment SIMPLE.
- Just remember this is for educational reference only.
- If you have a medical problem visit with your personal doctor.
- Please comment if any questions!
Toenail Pain [Toenail Fungus, Ingrown Toenails, Discolored Toenails]
Black Spot Under The Toenail[Causes, Home Remedies & Best Treatment]
A black spot under the toenail is usually caused by one of four common problems: #1)Jogger’s Toe, #2)Melanoma, #3)Bacterial Infection, or #4)Toenail Fungus.
Table of Contents
Black Spot Under The Toenail Video:
- A black spot under the toenail is usually dry blood building up underneath the toenail.
- Below we discuss when a black toenail is dangerous and when you should be worried!
Black Spot on My Toenail Infographic:
- This infographic goes over the basics of having a small black spot on the big toenail.
Black Spot Under the Toenail Pictures:
The following gallery shows the most common causes of black spots under the toenail pictures.
Look:
- A black spot underneath the toenail can show itself in many ways:
The most common is a red spot that develops over time due to an injury. - This toenail injury can be called a subungual hematoma.
- A subungual hematoma is usually caused by repetitive rubbing or irritation.
- A black toenail eventually develops as the blood eventually turns dry over a few hours or a day or 2.
- The dry blood develops between the toenail and the skin underneath the nail. The buildup of dry blood creates a blood blister pocket that prevents the toenail from attaching to the skin.
- It is also possible for black toenail fungus to develop once the toenail starts to detach.
- Toenail fungus usually develops before the black toenail. We usually see the toenail become thick, then it gradually rubs against the socks and shoes and detaches from the underlying skin.
- If you are toenail is detached and following off, click this guide to see what to do!
Black Spot Under The Toenail Causes:
There are four common causes that I have seen of a black spot under the big toenail. Here they are listened in order from most common to least common:
1) Jogger’s Toe (Subungual Hematoma).
Jogger’s toe is essentially just an “overuse toe.”
- The trick with this one is it sneaks up on people without any pain!
- Be aware that you can still have bleeding underneath your toenail, and it doesn’t have to be extremely painful.
- For example, I just saw a woman who had a scary black toenail without any cause.
- But the more I talked to her. I realized she bought new shoes and started Zumba classes.
- She was exercising more, had small shoes, and was not suffering from any pain!
Diagnosis:
- Sometimes no pain.
- Small shoes.
- New shoes.
- New exercise regimen.
- Heavy running or work.
- Traumatic injury.
- Dropping something on your foot.
- It will grow out over time.
- It will not get bigger over time.
2) Subungual Melamona (Black Streak or Mole).
Subungual melanoma is a toenail cancer that is a result of a mole!
- These can appear underneath your toenail or around the toenail.
- If the black streak extends into the skin, there may be cause for concern.
- If the line extends into the skin, this is called a Hutchinson’s sign.
- Subungual melanomas are sporadic, and the only way to know for sure is to get a biopsy.
- In our experience, it is scarce to develop toenail cancer, but it is possible.
- These can be dangerous, so if they are getting bigger or growing into the skin- see a podiatrist or foot doctor immediately!
Diagnosis
- No Pain or can be excruciating.
- It is getting bigger.
- There is bleeding.
- It can extend into the skin.
- There is no trauma or rubbing associated with it.
- It has been there a long time, or it can develop very quickly.
- No cause for its appearance.
- It may be growing into the tissue.
- See our “Is it dangerous guide?“
3) Pseudomonas Bacterial Infection.
A pseudomonas bacteria infection is different than toenail fungus- this is a bacterial infection.
- A bacterial infection means it comes quick and strong, then gets cured for good once you see a podiatrist.
- A pseudomonas bacterial infection goes against toenail fungus, which is very slow and resistant.
- Pseudomonas is a bacteria that loves oxygenated moist environments like wet mud and pond water.
- If you have been around any of these recently and you start getting greenish-black toenails, it may be this!
- You should see your podiatrist or foot doctor for some antibiotics!
- Its sweet-smelling grape-like odor can also confirm it.
Diagnosis:
- No Pain.
- Greenish-black.
- Appears quickly.
- Sweet, grape-like odor.
- History of swimming in pools or ponds.
4) Poor-fitting shoes:
- Poor-fitting (tight or loose shoes) is probably the most common cause of bleeding or black spot underneath the toenails that we see.
- It is not just that the shoes are too small or too tight, but your foot could be rubbing against the sides or the front of the shoe.
- It is common to see someone have too loose or poorly fitting shoes, and their foot slides against the side or front.
- We very commonly see people with very wide shoes. Their foot then twists out against the side of the shoe, and the fifth toe is rubbing and developing a baby toe black toenail.
- It is also widespread to see the big toenail rub against the front of the shoe if the big toe is the longest.
- If the second toe is the longest, it is also prevalent to see the second develop a black toenail.
- In some people, a hammertoe or bunion can develop, and this could cause the inside of the big toe to rub against the second toe.
- We have developed a podiatrist recommended shoe guide that may help.
Diagnosis:
- The shoe is either too big or too small.
- You can feel your footloose in the shoe.
- The shoe can feel too tight and pinch your toes.
- It feels like your foot flattens out with each step.
- Your foot hurts towards the end of the day and gets very sore.
5)Specific medical conditions:
- It is also possible that specific medical conditions could cause your toenail to turn black.
- In some of our older patients, it is possible that blood flow problems can result in less blood flow to the toenails.
- Peripheral arterial disease leading to black gangrene is common in people who smoke.
Other conditions to look out for are:
- Diabetes.
- Kidney problems.
- Heart disease and congestive heart failure.
- Anemia.
It is always a good idea to see your podiatrist if you are developing a worrisome black toenail, as it could be something more than a fungus or an injury.
It is always possible that he could be developing a subungual melanoma or potentially even cutting off blood flow to your toenails.
Toenail Fungus Can Cause Black Streaks:
If the above does not sound like your situation, consider toenail fungus as well.
- Toenail fungus is associated with 80% of all toenail problems.
- It usually manifests as thick yellow toenails, but there can be brown and black marks as well.
Toenail Fungus Is Associated With 80% Of All Toenail Problems.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungus:
- Thick yellow toenails.
- Crumbling debris underneath the toenails.
- Incurvated or possibly ingrown toenails.
- Discoloration or streaking.
Click on this link to our comprehensive nail fungus home treatment guide. Always be sure to see a podiatrist if you are ever unsure!
Diagnosis
- Thick Toenails.
- Yellowish-green.
- Crumbling toenails.
- Discolored.
- Appear slowly and last forever.
- No Pain.
- Usually associated with older age, smoking and diabetes.
Other Causes of Toenail Discoloration:
Consider these other toenail color distortions:
Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis) Treatment & Cure Infographic:
Toenail Fungus Home Treatment:
- These are our favorite products to treat toenail fungus at home.
- It is difficult to properly diagnose any health problem such as toenail fungus with 100% certainty. So see your podiatrist and make sure you are not missing anything!
- Also, many of these products are considered beauty products more so than health products. Just be aware that they are not always FDA evaluated or approved in any way.
How to fix toenail fungus:
- There are many different types of toenail damage.
- In our experience, about easily 50% or more is related to toenail fungus.
- The key to toenail fungus is to trim it as much as possible and file that nail down vertically and length-wise.
- If you can do that, you have to make sure you can kill fungus the rest of the way with creams and topical medication.
- The best way to do that is to soak exfoliate the affected toenail skin. So, foot soaks can be a strong anti-fungus solution.
- At the same time, you have to apply anti-fungal medication such as these medications evaluated here or the toenail repair pens.
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Best Toenail Repair Pen.
Top Choice For Direct Toenail Application.
Top Choice For Cream For Toenails & Webspaces.
Great Option For Foot Soak.
Great Tea Tree Oil Treatment
Price:
$21.99
$20.88
Price not available
$17.97
Price not available
Overview:
4 Pens with quick dry application that leaves a sealing lid on top. Easy to store and apply. Key is still to trim/file the toenail first!
All natural option that is toxic to fungus. This is similar to tea tree oil in that respect but can be more effective. You still need to exfoliate dead skin and trim thick toenails.
All natural cream option. This is a good option compared to some of the quick dry gels. This can be used on the skin surrounding your toenails.
Safe, cost effective and relaxing all at the same time! This needs to be used in a 20 minute foot soak. Works well for exfoliating loose skin/toenail as well as softening.
Tea Tree Oil is well studied and an all natural anti-fungal treatment.
Pros:
Easy to use, quick drying. This fills into the cracks and seals them with minimal mess. This is great for sealing even dehydrated keratin granulations.
All natural, relatively cost effective. 1,000s of reviews with excellent results. Very clean and quick drying, easy to apply.
Relatively cost effective. All natural tea tree oil that is proven toxic to fungus. Can be used on surrounding skin as well.
Very safe, little risk, low cost and very effective if used correctly. The key is to use it as an aid to soften and exfoliate loose/dry dead skin and toenail.
Great reviews at 4.7/5 at 500+ overall reviews. Well proven and natural option.
Cons:
0% chance of working if your toenail is loose and has no blood supply. Make sure you trim and file any loose finger or toenail. Otherwise “0% CHANCE OF WORKING!” You cannot restore a dead toenail without blood flow.
Small amount and a little more expensive than some other options. Once more has 0% chance of working if your goal is to heal a dead, detached toenail or dry skin. Are you noticing this is a trend? This is really the key!
Still more expensive than other options. Can get messy all over different areas of your foot. Key is still debride and cleaning your dry dead toenails and skin. TRIM them!
It once more has 0% chance working if you are trying to save loose and dead crusty skin. Fungus will always grow on this if no blood flow. It can not regenerate dead skin, only exfoliate it.
Not the greatest amount of solution, the all natural solutions can be more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
Although tea tree oil does nave studies and is antifungal, it is not an FDA approved medication and not studied for this specific use.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Best Toenail Repair Pen.
Price:
$21.99
Overview:
4 Pens with quick dry application that leaves a sealing lid on top. Easy to store and apply. Key is still to trim/file the toenail first!
Pros:
Easy to use, quick drying. This fills into the cracks and seals them with minimal mess. This is great for sealing even dehydrated keratin granulations.
Cons:
0% chance of working if your toenail is loose and has no blood supply. Make sure you trim and file any loose finger or toenail. Otherwise “0% CHANCE OF WORKING!” You cannot restore a dead toenail without blood flow.
Crucial Tips:
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Top Choice For Direct Toenail Application.
Price:
$20.88
Overview:
All natural option that is toxic to fungus. This is similar to tea tree oil in that respect but can be more effective. You still need to exfoliate dead skin and trim thick toenails.
Pros:
All natural, relatively cost effective. 1,000s of reviews with excellent results. Very clean and quick drying, easy to apply.
Cons:
Small amount and a little more expensive than some other options. Once more has 0% chance of working if your goal is to heal a dead, detached toenail or dry skin. Are you noticing this is a trend? This is really the key!
Crucial Tips:
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Top Choice For Cream For Toenails & Webspaces.
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
All natural cream option. This is a good option compared to some of the quick dry gels. This can be used on the skin surrounding your toenails.
Pros:
Relatively cost effective. All natural tea tree oil that is proven toxic to fungus. Can be used on surrounding skin as well.
Cons:
Still more expensive than other options. Can get messy all over different areas of your foot. Key is still debride and cleaning your dry dead toenails and skin. TRIM them!
Crucial Tips:
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Great Option For Foot Soak.
Price:
$17.97
Overview:
Safe, cost effective and relaxing all at the same time! This needs to be used in a 20 minute foot soak. Works well for exfoliating loose skin/toenail as well as softening.
Pros:
Very safe, little risk, low cost and very effective if used correctly. The key is to use it as an aid to soften and exfoliate loose/dry dead skin and toenail.
Cons:
It once more has 0% chance working if you are trying to save loose and dead crusty skin. Fungus will always grow on this if no blood flow. It can not regenerate dead skin, only exfoliate it.
Crucial Tips:
There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Repair Products:
Great Tea Tree Oil Treatment
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Tea Tree Oil is well studied and an all natural anti-fungal treatment.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.7/5 at 500+ overall reviews. Well proven and natural option.
Cons:
Not the greatest amount of solution, the all natural solutions can be more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
Although tea tree oil does nave studies and is antifungal, it is not an FDA approved medication and not studied for this specific use.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Recommended foot fungus products:
- It is also vital to fix your foot fungus.
- Athlete’s feet can be beneficial to remove from the foot because if left unchecked, they can quickly spread back to the toenails even if they are fixed.
- Even if you cure your toenail fungus, keep your toenails trimmed in healthy: your foot fungus can spread back into toenails.
- So make sure you treat your foot fungus, as well as your toenail fungus.
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best Fungus Combo (Foot Soak, Body Wash & Toe Ointment)
Best Foot Powder Option For Shoes.
Best Shower Body Wash
Best choice for Foot Bath Mix
Best & Most Cost Effective Foot Soak Tub.
Price:
$38.22
$26.15
$16.45
$15.66
$18.97
Overview:
This is almost everything you need for foot fungus! This has a foot soak powder, body wash for showering and toenail ointment.
3 pack of foot powder spray. This is great for shoes and feet, but not as practical outside the foot or shoe.
Great cost effective shower wash.
Mix of epsom salts, tea tree oil for a good price.
This is a cost effective tub for foot soaks. You still need to also buy a foot soak powder or solution!
Pros:
Great cost ($50+ separately), $29 in the bundle. Tea tree oil has proven antifungal benefits. Excellent reviews and good overall cost value.
If you sweat in your shoes, this is your best bet. This will soak up sweat and kill fungus. Very effective and excellent Amazon reviews. 3 pack online is the price of one bottle at the store.
Over 5,000 5 star amazon reviews. Great reviews, medically proven component in tea tree oil. All natural with excellent results.
Epsom salts and tea tree oil have proven effect. Epsom salts make your loose skin flake off and tea tree oil is anti-fungal. Great price and near 5 star review on Amazon.
Excellent choice for cost effective foot soak tub. Top notch reviews on amazon, great price.
Cons:
The combo could be more than you need. You still need a foot bath tub.
Powder makes a big mess. Good for shoes but it can get powder inside your shoes. Can have chemical like smell.
Can be more expensive than regular soap. It may not be enough by itself without soaking or especially further toenail treatment.
Foot soak by itself may not be enough to fix your problem, but a component. You also need a foot tub.
Not much downsides, it’s a tub! But you have to get foot soak powder or antifungal solution separately.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best Fungus Combo (Foot Soak, Body Wash & Toe Ointment)
Price:
$38.22
Overview:
This is almost everything you need for foot fungus! This has a foot soak powder, body wash for showering and toenail ointment.
Pros:
Great cost ($50+ separately), $29 in the bundle. Tea tree oil has proven antifungal benefits. Excellent reviews and good overall cost value.
Cons:
The combo could be more than you need. You still need a foot bath tub.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best Foot Powder Option For Shoes.
Price:
$26.15
Overview:
3 pack of foot powder spray. This is great for shoes and feet, but not as practical outside the foot or shoe.
Pros:
If you sweat in your shoes, this is your best bet. This will soak up sweat and kill fungus. Very effective and excellent Amazon reviews. 3 pack online is the price of one bottle at the store.
Cons:
Powder makes a big mess. Good for shoes but it can get powder inside your shoes. Can have chemical like smell.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best Shower Body Wash
Price:
$16.45
Overview:
Great cost effective shower wash.
Pros:
Over 5,000 5 star amazon reviews. Great reviews, medically proven component in tea tree oil. All natural with excellent results.
Cons:
Can be more expensive than regular soap. It may not be enough by itself without soaking or especially further toenail treatment.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best choice for Foot Bath Mix
Price:
$15.66
Overview:
Mix of epsom salts, tea tree oil for a good price.
Pros:
Epsom salts and tea tree oil have proven effect. Epsom salts make your loose skin flake off and tea tree oil is anti-fungal. Great price and near 5 star review on Amazon.
Cons:
Foot soak by itself may not be enough to fix your problem, but a component. You also need a foot tub.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot Fungus Products
Best & Most Cost Effective Foot Soak Tub.
Price:
$18.97
Overview:
This is a cost effective tub for foot soaks. You still need to also buy a foot soak powder or solution!
Pros:
Excellent choice for cost effective foot soak tub. Top notch reviews on amazon, great price.
Cons:
Not much downsides, it’s a tub! But you have to get foot soak powder or antifungal solution separately.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Fungus Clippers & Files:
- You have to be careful using at home, and definitely be safe and don’t use these if you have dangerous health conditions.
- It is important to see a podiatrist for foot evaluation and care if you have continued health care issues or problems with your feet.
- These are some great value heavy-duty clippers and sets.
- The key is to cut straight across and file the nail down from the top to keep it from impinging in the corners.
- It is also important to make sure all dead, dry skin is removed surrounding the foot.
- This is where you should really see your podiatrist if you have any concerns or are worried about cutting or hurting yourself.
- This is something covered, so don’t take chances with your health!
Best Grooming Supplies
Best Value Clipping Set
Best Value Heavy Duty Clipper Set
Heavy Duty Non-Scissor Clipper
Price:
$8.99
$24.99
$17.99
Overview:
This is the Amazon best overall rated value set: Great Reviews and cost.
Value heavy duty clipper, nail file and currette for scooping under the nail.
Great alternative choice for heavy duty clipper if difficulty cutting with the other one.
Pros:
4.4/5 ratings at almost 800+ ratings. Multi-tool set that should be adequate for most people.
4.7/5 reviews with 200+ reviews. Strong clipper with files and currette, everything you need!
Excellent reviews, 4.8/5 with 600+ reviews. Some people prefer this grip
Cons:
It won’t work for heavy duty thickness. It can be dangerous clipping if you have health conditions.
It is still not perfect if you can’t reach your foot. See your podiatrist if health conditions.
No currette and no nail file, so you may need this.
Crucial Tips:
If your toenails are too thick and if you have dangerous health conditions, see your podiatrist for your toenail fungus!
If you have health conditions, be very safe at home, this can be a risky treatment! Be very safe.
Make sure to see your podiatrist if you have metabolic or blood flow conditions! Be safe if you can’t reach.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Grooming Supplies
Best Value Clipping Set
Price:
$8.99
Overview:
This is the Amazon best overall rated value set: Great Reviews and cost.
Pros:
4.4/5 ratings at almost 800+ ratings. Multi-tool set that should be adequate for most people.
Cons:
It won’t work for heavy duty thickness. It can be dangerous clipping if you have health conditions.
Crucial Tips:
If your toenails are too thick and if you have dangerous health conditions, see your podiatrist for your toenail fungus!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Grooming Supplies
Best Value Heavy Duty Clipper Set
Price:
$24.99
Overview:
Value heavy duty clipper, nail file and currette for scooping under the nail.
Pros:
4.7/5 reviews with 200+ reviews. Strong clipper with files and currette, everything you need!
Cons:
It is still not perfect if you can’t reach your foot. See your podiatrist if health conditions.
Crucial Tips:
If you have health conditions, be very safe at home, this can be a risky treatment! Be very safe.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Grooming Supplies
Heavy Duty Non-Scissor Clipper
Price:
$17.99
Overview:
Great alternative choice for heavy duty clipper if difficulty cutting with the other one.
Pros:
Excellent reviews, 4.8/5 with 600+ reviews. Some people prefer this grip
Cons:
No currette and no nail file, so you may need this.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure to see your podiatrist if you have metabolic or blood flow conditions! Be safe if you can’t reach.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Toenail Fungus Polish and Remover:
- There is some great toenail fungus polish options and polish removal options.
- There are no acetone-based toenail polish removers, they don’t dry as quickly, but they are less like a dehydrator toenail.
- This also applies to your fingernails and hands.
- The benefits of using these non-toxic toenail polishes are that they are filled with non-fungal options such as tea tree oil, preventing toenail fungus.
- These can also work well for the fingernails.
- So great combo is to use one of these healthier toenail paint options, as well as a non-acetone-based toenail polish remover.
Non-Toxic Toenail Polish
Great Non-Acetone Toenail Polish Remover
Great Clear Topcoat & Anti-fungal Toenail Polish.
Nail file and removal equipment set.
Price:
$11.99
$19.95
$8.99
Overview:
Great non-toxic and non-acetone toenail remove. Great budget price with removal.
Great reliable brand that is combined with non-toxic and anti-fungal ingredients.
Great reviews and value for toenail polish remover with nail file.
Pros:
Great reviewed product: 4.4/5 with 1600+ reviews. No acetone.
Tea tree oil base. Great reviews at 4.4/5 with over 200+ ratings. Great brand.
Great reviews at 4.4/5 with 270 ratings. Includes nail files which are important.
Cons:
There are some questions about what organic really means for this brand. Some prefer the faster drying of acetone.
Some compliants of it getting thick if not sealing it properly.
More of a value budget set.
Crucial Tips:
Some prefer the quicker drying of acetone, but this works better if you are having drying and fungus issues.
If you still use acetone, it may still dehydrate.
The key is after removal, the nail files are useful for removal dry superficial nails and keratin granulations.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Non-Toxic Toenail Polish
Great Non-Acetone Toenail Polish Remover
Price:
$11.99
Overview:
Great non-toxic and non-acetone toenail remove. Great budget price with removal.
Pros:
Great reviewed product: 4.4/5 with 1600+ reviews. No acetone.
Cons:
There are some questions about what organic really means for this brand. Some prefer the faster drying of acetone.
Crucial Tips:
Some prefer the quicker drying of acetone, but this works better if you are having drying and fungus issues.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Non-Toxic Toenail Polish
Great Clear Topcoat & Anti-fungal Toenail Polish.
Price:
$19.95
Overview:
Great reliable brand that is combined with non-toxic and anti-fungal ingredients.
Pros:
Tea tree oil base. Great reviews at 4.4/5 with over 200+ ratings. Great brand.
Cons:
Some compliants of it getting thick if not sealing it properly.
Crucial Tips:
If you still use acetone, it may still dehydrate.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Non-Toxic Toenail Polish
Nail file and removal equipment set.
Price:
$8.99
Overview:
Great reviews and value for toenail polish remover with nail file.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.4/5 with 270 ratings. Includes nail files which are important.
Cons:
More of a value budget set.
Crucial Tips:
The key is after removal, the nail files are useful for removal dry superficial nails and keratin granulations.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Shoes For Toenail Injuries:
- The key to prevent toenail ripping and lifting is to have good supportive shoes.
- If you have a good supportive shoe that keeps pressure off your toes in your toenails, there will be no lifting and cracking to allow bacteria and fungus to get in.
- This almost seems counter-intuitive, but when people make a switch to perfect supportive shoes that fit properly, their toenail problems almost always get better over the next few months or a year.
- Your current nail is already likely destroyed, especially with joggers toe, but let the new nail growing healthy without new damage.
- Click the following link for our most recommended shoes. Try to focus on shoes with mesh and room around the big toe and also the smaller toes.
Best Antifungal Moisture Wicking Socks:
- These are some great options for moisture-wicking sucks.
- The more you can wick moisture from your foot, the less chance there is that toenail fungus, and athlete’s foot can survive.
- We tried to focus on budget value stocks that are not too expensive.
- Sure there are better stocks out there, but these are great socks for a great price for most people.
- If you have diabetes, focus on getting yourself some diabetic socks.
Best woman’s antifungal socks:
Best Women’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Great choice for women’s running socks with moisture wicking design.
Best Seller & Most Reviewed Crew Socks
Best Overall Women’s Dress Sock
Great reviewed crew length bamboo sock.
Price:
$26.16
Price not available
$23.99
$14.99
Overview:
Ankle height socks, great for running with moisture wicking design, great company.
This is a great reviewed budget crew sock. It has more cushion and bulk than the running sock.
Great overall full length dress socks, great reviews and good overall price.
This is a great alternative to the other crew sock. Great reviews.
Pros:
4.7/5 reviews with over 5,000+ reviews! Great reliable company with great reviews.
The best seller for moisture wicking women’s socks. Great reviews at 4.2/5 with over 3,000+ reviews.
Great reviews 4.4/5, which suprisingly is better than most dress socks. Excellent overall choice.
Very well reviewed sock: 4.4/5 rating and over 700+ reviews.
Cons:
These are thinner and more likely to curl/fall apart.
Not the world’s most expensive socks. Main complaints are the durability long term.
Dress socks are less durable than crew socks. They can work well.
Not much downsides. Good overall sock.
Crucial Tips:
Not as well cushioned as other socks. Make sure to combine with a good supportive orthotic and breathable sock.
These are great everyday socks. Combine with good breathable shoes and orthotics for best results.
Make sure to get a good 3/4 length dress orthotic or dress shoe orthotic with a good shoe.
Make sure to combine with a good breathable shoe and supportive orthotics.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Women’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Great choice for women’s running socks with moisture wicking design.
Price:
$26.16
Overview:
Ankle height socks, great for running with moisture wicking design, great company.
Pros:
4.7/5 reviews with over 5,000+ reviews! Great reliable company with great reviews.
Cons:
These are thinner and more likely to curl/fall apart.
Crucial Tips:
Not as well cushioned as other socks. Make sure to combine with a good supportive orthotic and breathable sock.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Women’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Best Seller & Most Reviewed Crew Socks
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This is a great reviewed budget crew sock. It has more cushion and bulk than the running sock.
Pros:
The best seller for moisture wicking women’s socks. Great reviews at 4.2/5 with over 3,000+ reviews.
Cons:
Not the world’s most expensive socks. Main complaints are the durability long term.
Crucial Tips:
These are great everyday socks. Combine with good breathable shoes and orthotics for best results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Women’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Best Overall Women’s Dress Sock
Price:
$23.99
Overview:
Great overall full length dress socks, great reviews and good overall price.
Pros:
Great reviews 4.4/5, which suprisingly is better than most dress socks. Excellent overall choice.
Cons:
Dress socks are less durable than crew socks. They can work well.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure to get a good 3/4 length dress orthotic or dress shoe orthotic with a good shoe.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Women’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Great reviewed crew length bamboo sock.
Price:
$14.99
Overview:
This is a great alternative to the other crew sock. Great reviews.
Pros:
Very well reviewed sock: 4.4/5 rating and over 700+ reviews.
Cons:
Not much downsides. Good overall sock.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure to combine with a good breathable shoe and supportive orthotics.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best men’s antifungal socks:
Best Men’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Best Budget & Well Reviewed Moisture Wicking Socks
Best ankle sock length Men’s running socks, moisture wicking.
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Overview:
These have a HUGE amount of great reviews, great cost men’s work socks.
Great overall budget reviewed choice for running socks at the ankle level.
Pros:
21,000+ reviews at 4.7/5! Excellent reviews at a great cost, you can’t go wrong.
2,500+ reviews at 4.5/5! Excellent reviews and specifically designed for moisture wicking, great company.
Cons:
Not much downsides, some durability concerns, but these seem to be overblown.
Shoe ankle socks can curl. Fabric is thin.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure to keep your shoes clean as well with antifungal sprays. Combine with clean shoes.
This is thin fabric, while is does wick moisture well, this can make it fall apart faster. It also gives less cushion.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Best Budget & Well Reviewed Moisture Wicking Socks
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These have a HUGE amount of great reviews, great cost men’s work socks.
Pros:
21,000+ reviews at 4.7/5! Excellent reviews at a great cost, you can’t go wrong.
Cons:
Not much downsides, some durability concerns, but these seem to be overblown.
Crucial Tips:
Make sure to keep your shoes clean as well with antifungal sprays. Combine with clean shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Anti-Sweat & Anti-Fungus Socks
Best ankle sock length Men’s running socks, moisture wicking.
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great overall budget reviewed choice for running socks at the ankle level.
Pros:
2,500+ reviews at 4.5/5! Excellent reviews and specifically designed for moisture wicking, great company.
Cons:
Shoe ankle socks can curl. Fabric is thin.
Crucial Tips:
This is thin fabric, while is does wick moisture well, this can make it fall apart faster. It also gives less cushion.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a Black Spot Under the Toenail Cancer?
- In very rare cases a black toenail can mean that subungual melanoma cancer is developing.
- The only 100% way to know for sure is to get a biopsy by visiting your doctor or podiatrist.
What is a black line under the toenail:
A black line on toenail fungus is called melanonychia.
This means that you have brown or black lines on your toenails.
A black line on a toenail fungus might be melanoma, but this is usually unlikely.
If the black line extends into your skin, this is called a Hutchinson’s sign. A Hutchinson’s sign is over 3mm thick and is much more likely to signal cancer or melanoma.
A subungual melanoma is extremely rare.
Personally in our clinic we have seen tens of thousands of black toenails and black lines on toenails, with a rarely being melanoma.
But there are cases where we do perform biopsies if the toenail does appear suspicious.
It is extremely important to always check with your podiatrist and get a biopsy if you are worried about a melanoma.
There is no 100% foolproof method to ensure that there is no melanoma underneath her toenail.
Black toenail fungus or melanoma?
A subungual melanoma can develop underneath the toenail.
This is extremely rare and accounts for only about 1-2% of all diagnosed melanomas and the human body.
Of the subungual melanomas 60% are found in the fingernails and about 40% are found as a black toenail fungus or melanoma type question.
Subungual melanomas are more common in older individuals 60 years or older and who have a history of cancerous skin growths.
A subungual melanoma or a toenail melanoma is usually very wide over 3 mm.
It is usually associated with a nodule and possible bleeding that extends into the acute call. This is called a Hutchinson sign.
Usually only one toenail is infected. It is very rare for there to be multiple subungual melanomas.
Important warning: It is extremely important to go see your podiatrist or your oncologist to perform a biopsy.
Subungual melanoma if not detected can spread through the rest of your body. Go see her podiatrist is a great start to diagnose whether he had a black toenail fungus or melanoma.
I have a black spot on my toenail with no pain?
Most black spots underneath the toenail do not show any signs of pain.
This is usually because it happens from a lot of small rubbing rather than one big injury.
We routinely see black spots on toenails develop in our patients after thousands and thousands of steps rather than dropping something big on your toenail.
Why do I have a black spot on my toenail?
If you are wondering why you have a black spot under your toenail, is usually due to dry blood developing under the toenail.
What usually happens is that people with high activity such as runners or people who stand on their feet all day, the toenail starts to rip away from the skin underneath it.
Small blood vessels underneath this can rip away and this creates first a bleeding red spot the very quickly turns black.
This means that dried blood is developing between the skin and the toenail.
This is most common in the big toenail or the second toenail. It can also happen in the fifth toenail.
How do I get rid of the black spot on my toenail?
The most important thing is to find out why it is happening.
Frequently we see that it is a biomechanical injury such as too much pressure on to the big toenail the second toenail or the fifth toenail.
This can be due to shoes, it can be due to body weight, it can be due to standing or walking too much.
There is usually an underlying biomechanical change such as tightness through the calf or the arch of the foot.
It is important to see a podiatrist to have a walking or running analysis performed to see why this is happening.
What does a tiny black spot under the toenail mean?
A tiny black spot under the toenail is usually not cancer.
It is usually the rupture of a small blood vessel called the capillary.
This can be called at petechiae. This means that it is a rupture of small blood vessel that creates blood flow underneath the toenail.
If you are worried about cancer or subungual melanoma, always check with your podiatrist and have biopsy performed.
What does a black spot at the base of the toenail mean?
A black spot at the base of the toenail usually means that the toenail got jammed back into the stem cells or the root where it started.
This is most common with the big toenail especially when it is not trimmed for a long time.
It is also common with stubbing your big toenail and having a jam backward into the root of the toe.
This can cause pain and tenderness in the big toe site.
This can also happen with stubbing her fifth toe or your second toe if you are second toe is the longest toe.
White you have a black spot on my baby toenail?
The most common cause of a black spot on the baby toenail is an injury or chronic rubbing to her fifth toenail.
This causes gradual blood buildup underneath her fifth toenail.
We frequently see this in people that have a titer leg hamstring or calf muscle to that leg.
This forces that foot to turn outward and the fifth toe to rub out against the side of the shoe.
This is a condition referred to as overpronation.
What does a black spot in the corner of my toenail mean?
Black spot in the corner of the toenail is usually the start of an ingrown toenail.
We see this when the sharp edge of a big toenail on the inside or outside of the toe starts to cut the skin.
This could cause a lot of pain or it could even be painless.
We recommend seeing a podiatrist to get your ingrown toenail taken care of.
Toenail Pain [Toenail Fungus, Ingrown Toenails, Discolored Toenails]