A type of fungus spread by dirty implements or improper surface prep of natural nails before enhancements is called what?

• A. Nail fungus
• B. Athlete's foot
• C. Ringworm
• D. Candida

Answer: (A)

Fungal infections of the nails occur when dermatophyte fungi invade and grow under the nail plate. In a salon, improper surface prep or dirty implements can leave fungal spores on tools or surfaces, which can transfer to natural nails during prep for enhancements and establish infection. Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is the term that directly describes a fungus affecting the nails, making it the best fit for this scenario.

Athlete’s foot is a fungus that affects the skin of the feet, ringworm refers to fungal infections on the skin elsewhere (not the nails), and Candida is a yeast infection that tends to affect moist skin areas rather than the nail itself.