Toenail fungus, known medically as onychomycosis, is a common infection that can be stubbornly persistent. It can affect the appearance of your toenails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, and even brittle. Beyond aesthetics, toenail fungus can also lead to discomfort and pain.
Hydrogen peroxide, a common household staple with antiseptic and oxidizing properties, is sometimes touted as a home remedy for toenail fungus. But how effective is it, really? And what’s the right way to use it?
This article explores whether hydrogen peroxide and nail fungus are truly a match made in heaven, or if other treatments are needed. Here, we’ll cover the causes and symptoms of toenail fungus, how hydrogen peroxide is thought to work against it, the best ways to apply it, important precautions, complementary treatments you might consider, when it’s time to see a podiatrist, and, finally, what you can do to prevent toenail fungus in the first place.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common condition that starts as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, it can cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails.
What causes toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is usually caused by dermatophytes, but yeasts and molds can sometimes be the culprits.
Fungi can enter your nail bed through tiny cracks in your nail or in the skin around your nail. Risk factors for developing nail fungus include:
- poor hygiene
- sweaty feet
- nail injuries
- certain medical conditions
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
You may have nail fungus if you notice:
- discoloration (yellow, brown, or white)
- thickening of the nail
- brittleness or crumbling of the nail
- distorted nail shape
- debris buildup under the nail
- a foul odor
- pain or discomfort
Symptoms can vary depending on how advanced the infection is.
How hydrogen peroxide works for toenail fungus
Hydrogen peroxide is a known antiseptic, which means it can help kill fungi and bacteria. It does this by messing with the cell walls of those pesky organisms, ultimately destroying them.
But the real magic of hydrogen peroxide lies in its oxidizing action. When you apply it to your nail, it releases oxygen. Now, fungus hates oxygen! By creating an oxygen-rich environment, you’re essentially making it a very uncomfortable place for the fungus to live and thrive.
It’s important to note that hydrogen peroxide might only work if the fungal infection is superficial. If the infection is deep under the nail, hydrogen peroxide may not be able to reach it effectively.
Also, hydrogen peroxide is not a proven treatment for fungal nails. While some people swear by it, more research is needed to show that it works.
How to use hydrogen peroxide to treat toenail fungus
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using hydrogen peroxide to fight toenail fungus.
Preparing the hydrogen peroxide solution
Be sure to use a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to dilute it further with water (a 1:1 ratio is usually a good place to start).
The application process
- Wash and dry your feet carefully.
- Make sure your toenails and the skin around them are completely clean and dry.
- Before applying the hydrogen peroxide to all your affected nails, do a patch test. Apply a small amount to a small area of skin to see if you have any kind of reaction.
- If the patch test goes well, apply the hydrogen peroxide solution directly to the affected nails using a cotton ball or swab.
- Another option is to soak your affected nails in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes.
- As the solution works, you should see some bubbling. This is normal.
- When you’re done, rinse thoroughly and dry the area.
Post-treatment care
- To boost the effects of the hydrogen peroxide, you may want to apply an antifungal cream or ointment after each treatment.
- Repeat this process daily or several times a week until the infection clears up.
- Keep an eye on your toes. If you don’t see any improvement, or if things get worse, talk to a doctor.
Important Considerations and Precautions When Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Before you start sloshing hydrogen peroxide all over your toes, there are some things you need to know.
First, always use 3% hydrogen peroxide. Anything stronger can irritate your skin. Even the 3% solution can sometimes cause problems, so keep an eye out for signs of skin irritation or allergic reactions. If your skin starts to feel irritated, stop using the hydrogen peroxide immediately!
Also, keep in mind that hydrogen peroxide may not be effective for every type of fungal infection, especially if it’s severe. You may need to use it consistently for a long time before you see results. It’s not a miracle cure!
Don’t rely on home remedies as your only treatment. If the nail fungus is severe, or you have underlying health conditions, it’s best to see a doctor.
Complementary Treatment Options
While hydrogen peroxide might help with nail fungus, you can also use it alongside other remedies, such as iodine treatment. Let’s explore some complementary treatments:
- Tea tree oil: This essential oil has antifungal properties and can be added to a hydrogen peroxide soak. Just mix a few drops into your solution.
- Baking soda: While it won’t kill the fungus, baking soda can help absorb moisture in your socks and shoes, creating an environment that’s less friendly to fungus.
- Apple cider vinegar: Some people swear by apple cider vinegar soaks. But be careful – it can cause a tingling sensation on your skin. If you experience that, stop using it.
Remember, these are just complementary treatments. If your nail fungus doesn’t get better with hydrogen peroxide and these other remedies, you should see a doctor for prescription-strength antifungal medications.
When to visit a podiatrist
While you can try to treat nail fungus at home with hydrogen peroxide, it’s important to see a podiatrist for more serious cases. If your toenail fungus is severe or doesn’t get better with at-home treatments, you should definitely see a doctor.
It’s especially important to seek professional help if you have diabetes or another underlying health condition. Your doctor can properly diagnose the type of fungus you have and recommend the best course of treatment.
A podiatrist has treatment options you can’t get over the counter. Some of these include:
- Prescription antifungal creams
- Oral antifungal medications
- Laser treatment
Laser treatment is often more effective and faster-acting than other treatments. So, if the hydrogen peroxide isn’t cutting it, make an appointment with your podiatrist.
Prevention Tips: Keeping Toenail Fungus at Bay
Good foot hygiene is key to preventing toenail fungus. Here are some things you can do to keep your feet healthy and fungus-free:
- Wash your feet regularly. Use soap and water to wash your feet every day, paying close attention to the areas between your toes.
- Dry your feet completely. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Fungus loves moisture, so keeping your feet dry is essential.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places. Wear shoes or sandals in public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. These are breeding grounds for fungus.
- Wear breathable shoes and socks. Choose shoes and socks that allow your feet to breathe. Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks made of synthetic materials that trap moisture.
- Trim your nails properly. Trim your toenails straight across and keep them short. This will help prevent the fungus from growing under your nails.
- Sanitize your nail clippers. Always sanitize your nail clippers and other tools after each use to prevent the spread of infection.
By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing toenail fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills fungus better, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide?
Both alcohol and hydrogen peroxide possess antifungal properties, but their effectiveness varies. Alcohol, particularly isopropyl alcohol (70-90%), can dehydrate and kill fungal cells on the surface. Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic that can inhibit fungal growth, but it may not penetrate as deeply. For nail fungus, neither is a guaranteed cure, and prescription antifungals are often necessary.
What kills fungus the fastest?
The “fastest” way to kill fungus depends on the type and severity of the infection. For nail fungus, prescription oral or topical antifungals are generally the most effective and work faster than over-the-counter remedies. Laser treatments are also an option, but their speed and efficacy can vary.
What happens if you put hydrogen peroxide on a fungal infection?
Hydrogen peroxide can act as a mild antiseptic, potentially killing some surface-level fungus and preventing secondary bacterial infections. However, it may not penetrate deep enough to eradicate the entire fungal infection, particularly in nail fungus. It can also cause temporary whitening of the nail.
How to know if toenail fungus is dying?
Signs that toenail fungus is dying include new, healthy nail growth at the base of the nail, a decrease in discoloration, and a softening or thinning of the affected nail. However, it can take several months to see significant improvement, and complete eradication can be challenging.
Can you scrape out toenail fungus?
You can carefully file down the surface of the infected nail to help topical treatments penetrate better, but you shouldn’t attempt to “scrape out” the fungus yourself, as discussed in this article about how to scrape nail fungus, diagnosis and treatment options. Doing so can damage the nail bed, increase the risk of infection, and potentially worsen the condition. It’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for appropriate treatment and nail care.
To Conclude
Hydrogen peroxide is a readily available and inexpensive treatment that might help with mild cases of toenail fungus. It’s easy to apply, and some people have found it helpful. However, it may not be effective for everyone, and it’s definitely not a substitute for prescription antifungal medications.
If you decide to try hydrogen peroxide, be sure to dilute it properly and avoid getting it on your skin. It’s also a good idea to combine it with other strategies, like keeping your feet clean and dry and wearing breathable socks.
If your toenail fungus is severe, painful, or doesn’t improve with home remedies, see a doctor. They can diagnose the specific type of fungus you have and recommend the most effective treatment. It’s also important to seek professional help if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, as toenail fungus can lead to more serious problems.
The best way to deal with toenail fungus is to prevent it in the first place! Wear shoes in public showers and locker rooms, keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid sharing nail clippers or files. Taking care of your nails and seeking treatment when needed, even considering if sunlight can help, is the best way to keep your feet healthy and happy.