Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for toenail fungus infection

by Dr. Flo Daniel Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

  • Oral: Oral medications have been proven effective, but they take time to work. ...
  • Topical: Topical treatments (like amorolfine and ciclopirox) can help with minor toenail fungus. ...
  • Natural/Homeopathic: Natural preventative measures can be effective, but once fungus sets in, your best bet is a research-backed and FDA approved oral antifungal. ...

Procedures

While home remedies are unlikely to provide many benefits, the following tips may be beneficial:

  • keep nails short, dry, and clean
  • use one nail clipper for the infected nails and another for the other toenails
  • wear well-fitting and breathable shoes
  • keep feet dry, wear cotton socks, and change them daily
  • maintain good foot hygiene
  • wear clean shower shoes when using a communal shower

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Self-care

Try One of These 10 Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus

  1. Vicks VapoRub. Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. ...
  2. Snakeroot extract. Snakeroot ( Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family.
  3. Tea tree oil. ...
  4. Oregano oil. ...
  5. Olive leaf extract. ...
  6. Ozonized oils. ...
  7. Vinegar. ...
  8. Listerine mouthwash. ...
  9. Garlic. ...
  10. Adjust your diet. ...

Nutrition

  • Clavusin kills the parasites at their root and removes all traces of them from the body.
  • It relieves rashes, itching, and aggravation, as well as skin discoloration, swelling, tingling, and a textured foot.
  • This recipe is for injured or sick skin.
  • It possesses pain-relieving, antimicrobial, and moderating properties.

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What is the best over the counter for toenail fungus?

What is the best natural remedy for toenail fungus?

What is the most effective treatment for nail fungus?

Can home remedies help get rid of toenail fungus?

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What kills toenail fungus fast?

MedicationsOral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice because they clear the infection more quickly than do topical drugs. ... Medicated nail polish. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac). ... Medicated nail cream.

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.

How effective is Lamisil for toenail fungus?

Itraconazole (Sporanox) and terbinafine (Lamisil) eliminated the fungus in 10 months for 55% to 70% of people in the studies required for FDA approval, but for 15% to 20% of users, the fungus returned within a few months.

What happens if you leave toenail fungus untreated?

If you have toenail fungus and it goes untreated, you may experience: Pain in your feet and toes due to thickened, distorted toenails. Spread of the fungus to your skin, causing athlete's foot. Infection of the surrounding areas, causing cracked skin, and increasing bacterial spread.

How do you get rid of toenail fungus in 10 minutes?

Baking soda. Add baking soda to a foot soak to heal the affected nail. You can also make a paste of baking soda with a minimal amount of water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry the foot thoroughly.

What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?

In medical terms this is called onychomycosis or tinea unguium,” says Batra. The fungal infection breaks down the keratin in the nail to form a white or yellow chalky substance under the nail plate. "As keratin debris spreads under the nail, the nail plate typically becomes lifted up off of the nail bed.

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 to treat toenail fungus?

Undecylenic acid works to kill the toenail fungus and prevent regrowth while tea tree and lavender oil soothe the skin. For optimal results, apply the solution on the cuticles and skin surrounding the nail. This helps the product penetrate underneath the nail bed to address the fungus.

What is the best soap for toenail fungus?

Fragrant oils may be overwhelming. A medicated soap is another way to address toenail fungus and other forms of fungus that can grow on the feet. The Remedy Soap specifically addresses fungal infections by combining all-natural ingredients: tea tree oil, aloe, peppermint, and eucalyptus .

What does it look like when your toenail is yellow?

Toenail fungus is a common fungal condition that often starts after a rash on the foot spreads to the nails. When mild, it looks like white and yellow spots growing under the nail beds. But if left untreated, the fungus can grow severely by hardening the nails and spreading to other toes. 1 .

What is the best nail polish for fungus?

Best Medicated Nail Polish: Arishine Toenail Fungus Treatment at Amazon. "Perfect for storing in your bag or pocket, the nail polish uses a mix of active ingredients to banish fungus and heal the damage.". Toenail fungus is a common fungal condition that often starts after a rash on the foot spreads to the nails.

Can you use terbinafine for toenail fungus?

Only for mild infections. Prescription orals and topicals are the most effective way to treat toenail fungus, 1 but there are products over-the-counter that can also address mild fungal infections. Terbinafine Hydrochloride AntiFungal Cream works to address a variety of infections, including toenail fungus.

Can athlete's foot be treated with antifungal?

“It begins with a rash on the foot and spreads to the toenails,” she says. Treating athlete’s foot differs from toenail fungus, so pay attention to where your problem is on your foot. If it’s athlete’s foot, you can address the concern with antifungal ointments, sprays, and powders available over-the-counter.

Can toenail fungus be treated?

Toenail fungus, if left untreated, can become a tough problem to treat and will greatly influence what medications you need. If the toenails are thick, yellowed, and left untreated for a long time, that could indicate you need either a prescription-strength product or to seek help from a board-certified dermatologist.

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.

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.

Does nail fungus go away?

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. It could cause pain when you walk. There are a number of ways to take care of it, including: Nonprescription options.

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.

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.

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 to stop fungal growth on nails?

Baking soda: Researchers found that baking soda prevented fungal growth in 79 percent of the specimens tested. Apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the affected nail and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing.

Why do my toenails turn yellow?

But coupled with discoloration, the thickening, as well as other symptoms like brittleness and white or yellow streaks on the sides, could be a sign of nail fungus. Fungi like to live in the toenails, which provide a dark, moist environment for them to grow.

Do fungi live in toenails?

Fungi like to live in the toenails, which provide a dark, moist environment for them to grow. As you get older, reduced blood circulation and the natural thickening of your toenails makes you more likely to develop an infection. To continue reading this article, you must log in.

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 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 use tea tree oil for toenail fungus?

Ways of using tea tree oil for toenail fungus. Mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil and use the diluted solution of tea tree oil as a remedy for nail fungus. Make a foot soak with warm water and tea tree oil. You need to mix six drops of tea tree oil, in a warm bowl of water, soak your feet for 15 minutes in it.

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.

What is the urgent fungus destroyer?

The Urgent Fungus Destroyer is an oral treatment for nail fungus, created by the Phytage labs. It is a reliable supplement made for all age groups and genders. Anyone can have it and there is no need to call the doctors and ask for a prescription.

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 is the best treatment for toenail fungus?

Prescription oral antifungals, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan), are traditionally used to treat toenail fungus. These treatments are often effective, but they may cause serious side effects ranging from upset stomach and dizziness to severe skin problems and jaundice.

How to treat toenail fungus?

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.

How to treat toenail fungus with olive leaf salve?

According to a 2012 review, taking one to three olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily is more effective than olive leaf salve in treating toenail fungus. It’s recommended that you drink plenty of water throughout this treatment.

What is the yellow fungus on my toenail?

Here’s our process. Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection of your toenail. The most noticeable symptom is a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of one or more of your toenails. It may spread and cause the nails to thicken or crack. Sandal season or not, toenail fungus typically isn’t what you want to see ...

Can diabetes cause toenail fungus?

If you have diabetes, toenail fungus may lead to foot ulcers or other foot problems. According to a 2012 study, chronic toenail fungus is a significant risk factor for bacterial cellulitis of the leg. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you shouldn’t use home remedies for toenail fungus.

Is ozonized sunflower oil good for toenail fungus?

Another study. Trusted Source. found ozonized sunflower oil was more effective in treating toenail fungus than the prescription topical antifungal, ketoconazole (Xolegel). To treat toenail fungus with ozonized oil, work the oil into the affected toenail twice a day.

Does Vicks vaporrub help with toenail fungus?

Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus. To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.

Pills for toenail fungus treatment

Oral medications, or those that come in pill form, generally work more quickly than topical medications for toenail fungus treatment. They have higher cure rates and the overall treatment time may be shorter than topical options. Pills to treat toenail fungus, however, will require a prescription.

Creams & topical treatments for toenail fungus

Over-the-counter fungal creams like clotrimazole (Mycelex) don’t work well for treating toenail fungus. Prescription nail polishes are available, but they take longer to work and aren’t effective for severe cases. That’s because they don’t penetrate the nail very well.

Other options for toenail fungus infections

Removal of the toenail is only used when just one nail is infected, but it does work. Light therapy and lasers are also being studied as possible toenail fungus treatments. Laser therapy has shown promise when combined with oral or topical antifungals.

What to watch for when taking oral medication for toenail fungus treatment

All of the pills for toenail fungus can cause liver toxicity. This is rare and is reversible after the medication is stopped. Still, liver function blood testing will be done before you start your treatment and again midway through your treatment.

The bottom line

As frustrating as toenail fungus can be there, there are a wide range of treatment options. Prescriptions for toenail fungus, specifically oral medications, tend to yield the best results and may help you get rid of the infection faster.

How to treat toenail fungus?

You can apply the essential lemon oil to treat toenail fungus. Mix the lemon oil with a carrier oil and it is ready to be applied on the toenail fungus. It can be mixed with coconut oil if it is the door of the infected nail that irritates you. So, here is the best essential oil of Lemon to kill toenail fungus. 6.

How to get rid of toenail fungus on feet?

You can apply the cinnamon essential oil in different ways. Make a spray of 1% cinnamon oil and water. Spray it twice a day on the toenail fungus or apply with a q-tip. You can also make a foot soak. Take a tub of lukewarm water, add 2% of cinnamon oil. Soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes in the tub and that is it.

What essential oil is good for toenail fungus?

Eucalyptus essential oil for toenail fungus. Eucalyptus oil is often mixed with other essential oils. This is known for the treatment of nail fungus and to strengthen the immune system. If you are feeling a slight pain or itchiness try eucalyptus essential oil to treat toenail fungus.

What is the best oil for toenail fungus?

Cinnamon essential oil for toenail fungus. Just like the clove oil, cinnamon oil can also treat toenail fungus. It has a strong odor that will affect the awful odor of nail fungus. Cinnamon oil is effective in killing onychomycosis toenail fungus. It also has eugenol, which is an effective anti-fungal.

Can you use oregano oil on toenails?

Oregano essential oil for toenail fungus. Just like the essential thyme oil, oregano oil has two very strong ingredients that can kill any kind of skin bacteria within two to three months. It has carvacrol, and thymol. Before you apply oregano oil on the infected toenail it is essential to read about it in detail.

Does thyme oil help with toenail fungus?

Both these ingredients are very effective in treating skin infections, caused both by bacteria and fungi. Applying thyme oil for toenail fungus can affect the infection. The thyme oil has the following ingredients.

Can you treat toenail fungus with home remedies?

Toenail fungus is an annoying and sometimes painful infection, many people feel that home remedies are the best way to treat toenail fungus. It is for some, but not for all the toenail fungus infections.

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