Kerasal is a topical medication that’s often recommended for nail conditions like nail fungus and nail psoriasis. It’s readily available over the counter at most drug stores and pharmacies.
But some people wonder, “Does Kerasal make nail fall off?” Nail detachment (also called onycholysis) or even total nail loss can be concerning, so it’s worth investigating whether Kerasal could be the culprit.
This article looks closely at Kerasal’s ingredients and how they work, potential side effects, and other factors that might be contributing to nail problems. We’ll help you figure out whether Kerasal could be the reason your nail is lifting or falling off.
What is Kerasal Nail and how does it work?
Kerasal Nail is a topical treatment designed to improve the look of nails damaged by nail fungus (onychomycosis) or psoriasis, but you may also want to consider Kerasal Nail Repair Patches for nail health. It’s an over-the-counter product that you apply directly to the affected nails.
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
Kerasal Nail contains two main ingredients:
- Urea: Urea is a keratolytic, which means it helps to soften and break down the damaged tissue of the nail. It makes it easier for the other ingredients to penetrate the nail.
- Propylene Glycol: Propylene glycol is a humectant and solvent. It helps to hydrate the nail and also helps deliver the urea.
How Kerasal Nail Works
Kerasal Nail softens and loosens the damaged parts of the nail. Over time, this can help detach the damaged parts. The treatment also aims to improve the nail’s thickness, color, and overall appearance.
Potential Side Effects and Adverse Reactions of Kerasal
Like any medication, Kerasal can come with side effects, although most people tolerate it well. Here’s what you should know:
Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects are usually mild and temporary. You might notice some skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation around the nail where you’ve applied the product. These symptoms usually subside as your skin gets used to the treatment.
Rare but Possible Adverse Reactions
Although uncommon, more serious reactions are possible:
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to one or more of the ingredients in Kerasal. Signs of an allergic reaction can include rash, hives, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical attention immediately.
- Nail discoloration: In rare cases, some users have reported changes in the color of their nails after using Kerasal.
Does Kerasal Directly Cause Nail Loss?
Okay, let’s get to the question you’re really here for: No, Kerasal is not supposed to make your nail fall off. That’s definitely not the goal! Kerasal is designed to improve nail health and appearance, not to cause detachment. Nail loss is typically associated with severe fungal infections, trauma, or other underlying medical conditions, not with the use of Kerasal.
What causes nail loss?
While Kerasal itself is not known to cause nail detachment, it’s important to understand that several factors can cause a nail to detach or fall off. Here are some potential reasons for nail loss:
Underlying nail conditions
- Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus): Severe fungal infections can weaken the nail, making it more likely to detach. Kerasal is often used to treat onychomycosis, but the infection itself, not the Kerasal, is what leads to nail detachment.
- Nail Psoriasis: Psoriasis can cause significant nail changes, including pitting, thickening, and onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed). Kerasal can help manage some of the symptoms of nail psoriasis, but psoriasis itself can lead to nail loss.
Trauma and injury
- Physical Trauma: Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or other injuries to the nail can cause it to detach.
- Repetitive Trauma: Activities like running or wearing tight shoes can put repeated pressure on your nails, which can lead to problems, including detachment.
Other contributing factors
- Certain Medications: Some medications can cause nail changes as a side effect. If you’re taking any medications, talk to your doctor about potential side effects.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions like thyroid disorders or anemia can affect nail health and potentially contribute to nail loss.
- Improper Nail Care: Filing your nails too aggressively or picking at them can cause damage and potentially lead to detachment.
When to seek medical advice
Kerasal Nail is generally safe, but you should contact your doctor if:
- You experience persistent irritation or an allergic reaction. If the side effects don’t improve or are particularly severe, get medical advice.
- You notice signs of infection. Symptoms such as pus, increased redness, or pain around the nail should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Your nail detaches. While Kerasal Nail is designed to treat nail conditions, detachment can indicate a more serious underlying issue that needs professional attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What medication causes nails to fall off?
Certain medications, particularly chemotherapy drugs, can sometimes cause nail changes, including onycholysis (nail separation) or, in rare cases, nail loss. Other medications that may contribute include retinoids, tetracyclines, and certain blood thinners. If you suspect a medication is affecting your nails, consult your doctor.
Is Kerasal any good?
Kerasal is an over-the-counter topical treatment designed to improve the appearance of nails affected by fungal infections or psoriasis. Many users report seeing improvements in nail thickness, discoloration, and overall appearance. However, individual results can vary, and it’s not a cure for fungal infections. For a potentially faster treatment, you might consider a nail fungus gel to get rid of toenail fungus.
What vitamin deficiency causes nails to fall off?
While vitamin deficiencies are less likely to directly cause nails to fall off, severe deficiencies in nutrients like biotin, iron, or zinc can contribute to brittle, weak nails that are more prone to damage and breakage. A balanced diet is essential for healthy nail growth.
When should I stop using Kerasal?
You should stop using Kerasal if you experience significant irritation, redness, or other adverse reactions. Also, if you don’t see any improvement after several months of consistent use, it may be worth discontinuing and exploring other treatment options with your doctor or podiatrist.
What are the side effects of using Kerasal?
Common side effects of Kerasal include mild skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own. If you experience severe or persistent irritation, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
In Summary
Kerasal is not supposed to make your nail fall off. It’s designed to improve the look and feel of your nails if they’ve been damaged by fungus, psoriasis, or just general wear and tear.
If you’re having problems with your nails, it’s important to figure out what’s causing those problems instead of just treating the symptoms. Sometimes nail problems are a sign of something else going on in your body.
Take good care of your nails, and if you notice something that worries you, talk to your doctor right away.