Wash and dry your feet daily
Trim toenails straight across and keep them short
Avoid tight shoes and choose breathable footwear
Change socks daily and keep feet dry
Use antifungal cream or powder if a fungal infection is suspected
Treat athlete’s foot promptly if present
Avoid nail polish and artificial nails until the discoloration clears
Disinfect nail clippers and other foot-care tools
Protect toenails from repeated trauma
See a podiatrist or doctor if the brown color persists, spreads, or is painful
Get medical evaluation right away if the nail turns dark, thickens, lifts, or a dark streak appears