Anhydrous agents for topical application, comprising one or more C1-C4 alkyl esters of lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid or citric acid and physiologically acceptable excipients, are described for the treatment of nail disorders caused by mycoses and for nail care. The agents according to the invention are also suitable in veterinary medicine for treating fungal infections of the hooves, claws and talons of pets and farm animals and wild animals living in captivity.