Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for toenail

by Prof. Blair Koelpin Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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What is the most effective treatment for toenail fungus?

3 10 Best fungal toenail home remedies 3.1 06. Apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus 3.2 07. Hydrogen peroxide for nail fungus 3.3 08. Bleach toenail fungus treatment 3.4 09. Tea tree oil nail fungus treatment 3.5 10. Baking soda for toenail fungus 3.6 11. Epsom salt for toenail fungus 3.7 12. Oregano oil remedy for toenail fungus 3.8 13.

What is the best treatment for nails?

 · In studies of up to 54 weeks, the two newer nail lacquers, tavaborole (Kerydin) and efinaconazole (Jublia), cleared up fungal infections for 6.5 to …

What is the best nail treatment?

 · Pulchra prescription treatment for toenail fungus is the epitome of what a great treatment should be. The Pulchra Prescription Treatment For Toenail Fungus worked really well and it is Thirdly. . Moreover, it works with natural ingredients, is perfect for quick results and it is highly recommend.

What is the best nail repair product?

 · Here are 10 common ingrown toenail remedies. 1. Soak in warm, soapy water Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water three times a...

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What is the most effective treatment for toenail?

Options include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. You typically take this type of drug for six to 12 weeks. But you won't see the end result of treatment until the nail grows back completely.

What kills toenail fungus fast?

Hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus that grows on toenails. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used in a foot soak.

What is the most effective topical treatment for toenail fungus?

One of the more frequently prescribed topical antifungals is Penlac (ciclopirox ). This is a brush-on lacquer applied to the nail, usually over the course of months. Penlac is recommended for mild to moderate cases of onychomycosis in which the infection has not spread to the nail's growth center (known as the matrix).

How can I make my toenails healthy again?

10 Tips For Growing Healthy ToenailsDaily Cleansing. ... Moisturize. ... Frequent Trimming. ... Filing. ... Toenail Friendly Diet. ... Wearing Proper Shoes and Socks. ... Occasional Massage. ... Treat Yourself To Foot Soaks.More items...•

What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?

The best pill for toenail fungus is terbinafine. Evidence suggests it works better than the alternatives with the fewest side effects. Terbinafine results in resolution of toenail fungus 76% of the time. Common side effects may include headaches, skin rash, and vomiting.

What is the fastest home remedy for toenail fungus?

Here are six of the best natural remedies:White Vinegar. White vinegar other wise known as Acetic Acid can help eliminate fungus when diluted in lukewarm water. ... Listerine and White Vinegar. ... Tea Tree Oil. ... Urea Paste. ... Pau D'arco Tea. ... Vicks VapoRub. ... Time.

Do any over-the-counter nail fungus treatments work?

by Drugs.com There really is no 'best' over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for nail fungus. OTC products are available to treat fungus on the skin around the nail bed, but are not very effective at treating the hard nail bed.

Does Kerasal really work?

So I found the Kerasal and read reviews. It really does work. I've used it 2xs a day for about 3 days and I've seen results and feel some relief from the pain. The color is getting better.

Does toenail fungus ever go away?

Maybe it doesn't hurt, and the yellow, thick nails don't bother you. But nail fungus doesn't go away by itself. And if you don't treat it, there's a chance it could get worse. It could spread to other nails or through your body.

What oil is good for toenails?

According to a 2016 review, thymol has antifungal and antibacterial properties. To treat toenail fungus, apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together. Both products are potent and may cause irritation or allergic reaction.

Can damaged toenails be repaired?

You can still use a form to protect the skin, sculpt the shape of a toenail onto the nail bed and, with the OK from a GP or dermatologist, the client can adhere this to be nail bed using a medical grade skin adhesive, which can often be purchased from a pharmacy.

How do you get rid of thick yellow toenails?

Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.

How do you get rid of toenail fungus forever?

Effective products include efinaconazole (Jublia), tavaborole (Kerydin) and ciclopirox (Penlac). All require daily applications, and it may take as long as a year to see noticeable improvement. These products may work for early, superficial fungal infections because they kill fungi on the surface of the nail.

How long does apple cider vinegar take to cure toenail fungus?

The antifungal properties also make vinegar soaks a good idea for people who have toenail fungus. Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes daily in a vinegar bath until the infection subsides. You can increase the length of time in the soak gradually. It may take two to three weeks or longer to see improvement in symptoms.

How long does it take for a toenail fungus to clear up?

Usually three months of treatment cures a toenail fungal infection. Antifungal pills, however, can cause side effects. Your dermatologist will watch you closely. You'll also need to have blood tests every month to check for problems.

Can you apply apple cider vinegar directly to toenail fungus?

Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for toenail fungus due to its antifungal properties. If you want to treat your fungus using ACV, you can soak your feet in a mixture of warm water and the vinegar for about 15 minutes, twice a day.

How to keep toenails healthy?

Follow these guidelines to help keep your toenails healthy: 1 Wash your feet with soap and water and dry them thoroughly after swimming. 2 Wear shower shoes in locker rooms and public areas. 3 Wear shoes that fit well and are made of breathable materials. 4 Remove wet or damp socks or shoes as soon as possible and dry your feet. 5 Disinfect nail clippers and home pedicure tools. 6 If you get pedicures, ensure that your salon follows proper disinfection procedures, and wash and dry your feet when you return home. 7 Avoid applying polish to infected nails. 8 If you have athlete’s foot, treat the infection.

How long should I take toenail fungus medication?

They may recommend a prescription-strength topical medication, or an oral anti-fungal pill that you take for two or three months.

What oil is good for toenail fungus?

Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil: Both oils have antifungal properties, and studies found they performed as well as some over-the-counter and prescription topical antifungal treatments. Ozonized sunflower oil: A Brazilian study found that sunflower oil worked to treat toenail fungus infection caused by yeast.

Why do I get a fungal infection on my toenail?

Fungal nail infections are usually caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail; yeast is another common culprit. Toenails are especially vulnerable to infection when your bare feet contact damp surfaces such as showers, swimming pools and locker rooms.

How do you know if you have toenail fungus?

Symptoms can include: Yellowish discoloration at the top of the nail. Darkening or clouding of nails. White spots on nails. Nail thickening. Distorted nail shape.

Why do shoes hurt toes?

Moreover, if your shoes fit snugly enough to put pressure on your toes, they can damage the nail bed, making it more susceptible to infection. People with chronic diseases such as diabetes or circulatory problems also may be more prone to toenail infections.

How high is the recurrence rate of toenail fungus?

Unfortunately, toenail fungus can be stubborn — the recurrence rate can be as high as 40 percent.

How to treat toenail fungus?

Sometimes it’s possible to treat your toenail fungus at home. You can try: 1 Over the counter antifungal creams or ointments. File or cut off any white markings on your nails. Soak your nails in water and dry off before you put on the medicated cream. 2 Special nail care. If you keep your nails trimmed, it can reduce the pressure and pain you feel. You can also thin your nail bed by filing it down. This can help antifungal creams get to the problem easier.

What to do if you have fungus on your toenails?

Your foot doctor will likely trim your nail and file away its dead layers. They may also take a piece of your nail and send it to the lab to make sure it’s really a fungus and to find out what type it is. The doctor might suggest an antifungal drug that you paint on your nails.

How long does it take for a nail to grow back after a fungus infection?

If the infection is deep and you’ve had it for a while, your doctor may want to remove all or part of your nail. A new nail usually grows back, but it might take a year or so.

How long does it take for fungus to grow out of your toenail?

Your doctor will call this a topical treatment. Be patient. Your nails may not look "normal" after treatment. It can take as long as a year to 18 months for your nail to grow out a fungus. Toenail Fungus Prevention. There's a chance the infection can come back -- even if you get rid of it.

What to do if you have a nail infection?

Some people also swear by home remedies like menthol rub, tea tree oil, mouthwash, or snakeroot extract -- but studies show mixed results. Prescription polish and creams. Your foot doctor will likely trim your nail and file away its dead layers.

What to do if fungus comes back?

See your doctor if you think your fungus has come back.

How to get rid of fungus on your feet?

Keep your feet clean and dry. Wear shower shoes in public pools, bathrooms, and locker rooms -- and even in your own bathroom. Change your shoes and socks every day. Wear ones that breathe and don't fit too tight. Trim your nails short and straight across. See your doctor if you think your fungus has come back.

What to take for toe pain?

Take pain relievers. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) may help ease the toe pain.

How to stop toe nail from growing back?

This procedure may prevent that part of your nail from growing back. Your doctor will use a chemical, a laser or other methods.

How to get rid of swollen feet?

Soak your feet in warm water. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a day. Soaking reduces swelling and relieves tenderness.

Who can diagnose ingrown toenails?

Your family doctor or a foot doctor (podiatrist) can diagnose an ingrown toenail. Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor during your appointment. Some basic questions include:

Can you take antibiotics for toe infection?

Your doctor may also recommend using topical or oral antibiotics, especially if the toe is infected or at risk of becoming infected.

Can you trim an ingrown toenail?

Partially removing the nail. For a more severe ingrown toenail (redness, pain and pus), your doctor may trim or remove the ingrown portion of the nail. Before this procedure, your doctor may temporarily numb your toe by injecting it with an anesthetic.

How to reduce pain from nail fungus?

Trim and thin the nails. This helps reduce pain by reducing pressure on the nails. Also, if you do this before applying an antifungal, the drug can reach deeper layers of the nail. Before trimming or using a nail file to thin thick nails, soften them with urea-containing creams.

How to get rid of fungus on nails?

Medicated nail cream. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream, which you rub into your infected nails after soaking. These creams may work better if you first thin the nails. This helps the medication get through the hard nail surface to the underlying fungus.

How to get rid of white spots on nails?

Try over-the-counter antifungal nail creams and ointments. Several products are available. If you notice white markings on the surfaces of the nails, file them off, soak your nails in water, dry them, and apply the medicated cream or lotion.

How long does it take for a nail to grow back?

But you won't see the end result of treatment until the nail grows back completely. It may take four months or longer to eliminate an infection. Treatment success rates with these drugs appear to be lower in adults over age 65. Oral antifungal drugs may cause side effects ranging from skin rash to liver damage.

What causes a nail to get infected?

He or she may also take some nail clippings or scrape debris from under your nail and send the sample to a lab to identify the type of fungus causing the infection. Other conditions, such as psoriasis, can mimic a fungal infection of the nail. Microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria also can infect nails. Knowing the cause of your infection helps ...

Can you take antifungal medication on your nails?

Your doctor may prescribe antifungal drugs that you take orally or apply to the nail. In some situations, it helps to combine oral and topical antifungal therapies.

Can you remove a nail with an antifungal?

Your doctor might suggest temporary removal of the nail so that he or she can apply the antifungal drug directly to the infection under the nail.

How to treat yeast infection on toenails?

The caprylic acid is one of the best treatments for yeast infections. As yeast is the most common nail fungus. The caprylic acid will first decrease the power of fungus by killing the cell wall. Next Amylase is a digestive enzyme, which will flow in the blood stream to kill the toenail fungus.

What is the best supplement for nail fungus?

Among the best supplements for nail fungus the urgent fungus destroyer is the most beneficial one. It is because of its amazing ingredients, it is not a 100% organic supplement, but a levelled up oral treatment for nail fungus. It has the ten fantastic ingredients.

How to get rid of fungus on toes?

Add two tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in two liters of water. Soak your feet in it for almost 30 minutes a day. Mix apple cider vinegar with baking soda. As baking soda is already a home remedy for nail fungus, mixing it with apple cider vinegar will only reinforce its effect.

What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?

The symptoms of the nail fungus are very common, and you can easily find out that it is time to find the best treatment for nail fungus. Your nails will have blue/purple/green spots on them.

Why are we afraid of toenail fungus?

And so, the common reason why we all are afraid of toenail fungus is the strength of fungus to eat away every particle on a body, be it a human body or a non-living object.

How long does it take for nail fungus to show?

To be honest, both the internal and external treatments for nail fungus are effective but except for the laser treatment which is an external treatment all external nail fungus treatments can take more than 3 months to show results.

What essential oil is good for nail fungus?

Thyme/thymol oil is a very effective essential oil. If you are suing the oregano oil for nail fungus but want to have a change as both these oils can take months to show some results, you can alternate these two oils.

Why are my toenails thick?

Some 35 million people in the U.S. suffer from onychomycosis, or nail fungus, a hardy, microscopic organism that can cause thick, grayish, greenish toenails.

How long does it take for nail lacquer to cure fungus?

If your doctor confirms a nail-fungus infection, the new drugs may help, but not usually. In studies of up to 54 weeks , the two newer nail lacquers, tavaborole (Kerydin) and efinaconazole (Jublia), cleared up fungal infections for 6.5 to 17.8 percent of users. In addition, the drugs have to be applied every day for 11 months—and cost about $600 per bottle. The older paint-on drug ciclopirox (Penlac nail lacquer and generic) clears up nail fungus infection in 5.5 to 8.5 ­percent of infected people.

Do you need to treat toenail fungus?

While unpleasant to look at, the infections usually only require medical treatment when they strike people who have diabetes, and for those with compromised immune systems. Most people treat toenail fungus for cosmetic reasons.

Is terbinafine a good antifungal?

Oral prescription anti-fungals such as terbinafine (Lamisil and generic) are more effective (they cure 66 percent of fungal infections after 12 weeks) but pose risks, including digestive discomfort, headache, rash, loss of sense of smell, and in rare cases, liver problems.

Can paint on nails cause nail fungus?

But before you try a paint-on prescription medication, make sure that you truly have toenail fungus, says Marvin M. Lipman, M.D., Consumer Reports chief medical adviser. In some cases, what looks like toenail fungus is actually a nail injury. If your doctor confirms a nail-fungus infection, the new drugs may help, but not usually.

How to heal a toenail with antibiotics?

Using over-the-counter antibiotic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily. These ointments include Neosporin, Polysporin, and Bactroban. Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

What is the best way to treat ingrown toenails?

Soak in apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited at best.

How to stop ingrown toenails from growing?

Wear comfortable shoes and socks. Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. This is considered to be a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed.

What is a toe protector?

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming.

What to do if you have an ingrown toenail?

Mayo Clinic recommends tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

How long does it take for ingrown toenails to heal?

They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to the bone. It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

What is a toe brace?

Try a toe brace. Toe braces are usually made of thin, adhesive, composite material and are glued to the top of your toe. They’re meant to help shield your skin from a sharp, ingrown nail and lift the nail edges as your nail grows. Toe braces are available online and in some pharmacies. 9.

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Diagnosis

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Aakash Gupta
A fungal infection that occurs in the edge of the nail.
How common is condition?
Very common (More than 3 million cases per year in US)
Is condition treatable?
Treatable by a medical professional
Does diagnosis require lab test or imaging?
Rarely requires lab test or imaging
Time taken for recovery
Can last several months
How is condition transmitted?
Transmitted through indirect contact and direct contact
Condition Highlight
More common in males
Condition Image

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Preparing For Your Appointment

Diagnosis

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Your health care provider can diagnose an ingrown toenail based on your symptoms and a physical examination of the nail and the surrounding skin.
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Treatment

  • If home remedies haven't helped your ingrown toenail, your health care provider may recommend: 1. Lifting the nail. For a slightly ingrown nail, your health care provider may carefully lift the ingrowing nail edge and place cotton, dental floss or a splint under it. This separates the nail from the overlying skin and helps the nail grow above the skin edge, usually in 2 to 12 weeks. At home…
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Lifestyle and Home Remedies

  • You can treat most ingrown toenails at home. Here's how: 1. Soak your feet in warm, soapy water.Do this for 10 to 20 minutes 3 to 4 times a day until the toe improves. 2. Place cotton or dental floss under your toenail.After each soaking, put fresh bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the ingrown edge. This will help the nail grow above the s...
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Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Your primary health care provider or a foot doctor (podiatrist) can diagnose an ingrown toenail. Prepare a list of questions to ask during your appointment. Some basic questions include: 1. Is my condition temporary or long term (chronic)? 2. What are my treatment options and the pros and cons of each? 3. What results can I expect? 4. Can I wait to see if the condition goes away o…
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