LONG nails may make a fashion statement, but there are microorganisms lurking underneath that can cause potential infections, according to a recent USA Today report.

“The longer the nail, the more surface area there is for microorganisms to adhere,” said Jeffrey Kaplan, a biology professor at American University.

“Studies have found 32 different bacteria and 28 different fungi underneath fingernails.”

And whether they’re artificial nails, long natural nails, gel nails, acrylic nails or just nail polish, they increase the probability that microorganisms lurk underneath them, which in turn makes it more difficult to wash off with simple handwashing, Kaplan added.

He noted one study that found that a resistant bacteria, known as methicillin-resistant Staph aureus, or MRSA, in half of fingernail samples, which could subsequently lead to an infection.

“You can transmit fingernail bacteria to your system by scratching, nail-biting, nose-picking and finger-sucking,” Kaplan said.

The bacteria and fungi underneath the long nails can also lead to a nail infection, which could leave the fingernails disfigured. “A growing body of evidence suggests that wearing artificial nails may contribute to transmission of certain healthcare associated pathogens. Healthcare workers who wear artificial nails are more likely to harbor gram-negative pathogens [like pseudomonas] on their fingertips than are those who have natural nails, both before and after handwashing,” according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention.

So the agency recommends that artificial nails should not be worn by health care workers who have direct patient care with high risk patients, like in the intensive care unit, and their nail tips be kept to one-fourth inch in length.

“Long nails are a perfect hideout for pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, that get trapped under there,” said Dr Cristina Psomadakis, a dermatologist based in the U.K. and popular on Instagram as “Dr. Soma.”

“I also recommend clear polish or translucent finishes on nails. This allows us to be able to see when our nails are dirty and serves as a visual reminder to wash our hands.”(SD-Agencies)