Flip-flops, sandals and open-toed shoes are popular in warm weather, but if your toenails look unsightly, it could be the result of a fungus.

Your toes are the perfect spot for fungus to grow and thrive. Fungus and other bacteria need a warm, moist and dark place and they get that inside your closed shoes.

One of the telltale signs of toenail fungus is a dark crusty look to the nails. They are also brittle and thick on the underside. Don’t hide them away again as this only gives the fungus more opportunity to grow. You can start getting rid of the fungus with a trip to a dermatologist.

What to Do

* Visit a dermatologist, who will examine your nails. Do not wear nail polish so that the doctor can get a good look at all areas of your toenails.

* Try prescribed medications. There are some that you can take orally. These work best for those who don’t have the time or patience for dips or lotions. It may be necessary to apply creams or ointments to your toenails on a daily basis. The total process may take several weeks for the medication to get into your system and reach your toenails.

* Try other treatments. Prescriptions work, but are also quite expensive. There are over-the-counter remedies you can try. For instance, you can purchase a toenail fungus polish. By polishing your toenails twice a week you can seal in the nail fungus so it doesn’t spread.

* Cut the affected nail back as far as you can. Most fungus sticks to a particular part of the nail. As the nail grows out, the fungus usually grows out with it. This will require regular trimming.

* Use natural methods. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and antifungal. Massaging your infected toenails with it can help get rid of the infection. Another method that many recommend is using Vick’s medicated vapor ointment. It could be the camphor or eucalyptus that does the trick, but this ointment also helps clear up toenail fungus.

* Watch your diet. Foods that are rich in nutrients that the body needs can increase your immunity. Stronger immunity means a lower likelihood that bacteria and fungus will attack your nails.

* Don’t discount the power of prevention. To make sure that this problem doesn’t occur again, take a few measures. Wear shower shoes in the shower at the gym to protect your feet. Keep feet dry at all times. If you spend a lot of time at the gym or outside, use fungal foot powder to prevent athlete’s foot.

Toenail fungus can be unsightly but it doesn’t have to last forever. The foregoing are some methods for getting rid of it.