Nail care for athletes

For healthy nails, cut or file your toenails regularly (with a file of the right thickness), but take care not to cut them too short to avoid ingrown toenails or damage to the skin around the nail. In the case of fragile or traumatised/black nails, apply a PODERM Fragile Nails or Black Nails serum to strengthen the nail and encourage healthy regrowth. Don't forget to check the size and wear of your sports shoes to limit the impact on your nails.

Athletes often suffer from dry feet due to the confined environment of the closed shoes they wear during training. This situation is exacerbated by the repeated rubbing and microtrauma caused by intense physical activity. To prevent and remedy this problem, it is essential to use specific skin care products: water-free serums that protect the hydrolipidic barrier while promoting deep, long-lasting hydration, thereby limiting the risk of dryness and cracking. Regular check-ups with a chiropodist will also help to maintain healthy skin and nails.

Check that your shoes are not too worn and avoid walking barefoot to avoid aggravating the crack. Then apply a thick layer of a highly nourishing product every day and massage until it penetrates. Discover PODERM Cracks and Calluses, a unique patented treatment consisting of an ultra-concentrated repair serum and a pair of gel socks to maximise the serum's effectiveness. The wrong reflex is to use a rapper, which can accentuate the crack and further weaken the skin's natural barrier, slowing down the healing process.

If you notice redness or peeling of the skin on your foot, a foul odour and the area is itchy, particularly between your toes, you may be suffering from athlete's foot syndrome, or a skin fungus. Consult your podiatrist or general practitioner without delay to confirm the diagnosis and give you the appropriate treatment.

To avoid athlete's foot, here are the recommendations:

1. Before practising sport: apply a purifying foot spray to limit perspiration and the proliferation of bacteria, and to purify the environment. Wear cotton socks is recommanded.
2. When practising : wear shoes that are suitable for your activities and the right size.
3. After practising:Air your shoes and allow them to dry.
4. Clean your skin and dry the skin on your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, before putting your shoes back on.
5. Apply a nourishing skin care product regularly to reinforce the skin's natural barrier and limit the fragility caused by sport.

To practise an activity in complete safety, it's best to seek the advice of a chiropodist or specialist sports shop salesperson to find the right pair of trainers for you and the right size. Keep an eye on the wear and tear of your shoes and change them if necessary. Use sports-specific foot care products to look after your nails and skin.

En cas d'ongle douloureux, de rougeurs ou gonflements sur la peau qui l’entoure, c'est peut-être un ongle incarné, appliquer le sérum Ongles Incarnés PODERM et consulter un podologue pour le prendre en charge. Un ongle incarné non pris en charge peut s'infecter et engendrer des complications.

You should consult a chiropodist as soon as symptoms appear or before starting or resuming a sporting activity. He or she can give you advice on footwear and best practices for avoiding injury.