Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a really common problem. Studies show that it affects as much as 14% of the population.
Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat. That’s because the structure of the nail itself makes it hard for medications to reach the infection. The nail tissue is so dense and thick that it blocks many topical treatments from penetrating effectively.
One strategy for improving the effectiveness of topical treatments is to use a nail softener for fungus. Nail softening can help break down the nail, allowing medications to reach the fungus more easily.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus can be a real drag, but it’s helpful to understand what causes it and what makes some people more prone to it.
Causes and risk factors
Toenail fungus is often caused by fungi, yeasts, and molds. One of the most common culprits is a group of fungi called dermatophytes.
Several things can make your toenails more susceptible to fungal infections. For example, footwear that creates a damp environment can encourage fungus to grow. When your feet are often sweaty and damp, it provides a better environment for the fungi, yeasts, and molds that are naturally present on your skin to flourish.
Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection of the skin on your feet, is also related to toenail fungus, and having athlete’s foot can increase your risk of developing a toenail infection.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
If you think you might have toenail fungus, here are some common signs to look out for:
- Thickened nails
- Discoloration (often yellow or brown)
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Distorted shape of the nail
Why is toenail fungus so difficult to treat?
Let’s be real: getting rid of toenail fungus is a pain. Even when treatments seem to work, a complete cure is tough to achieve. Clinical studies often report higher success rates than what people experience in real life, and there’s often some residual fungus that hangs around.
One reason it’s so difficult is the nail itself. Toenails are hard and thick, making it difficult for medications to penetrate and reach the fungus underneath. Nail softeners can help a little bit, which we’ll discuss later.
Another factor is the slow growth of toenails. Even with effective treatment, it takes a long time to see results as the healthy nail grows out and replaces the infected part.
How nail softeners help treat fungus
Nail softeners don’t kill fungus, but they can help you get rid of it. They work by making your nails more porous so medications can get inside and do their work.
Types of nail softeners
You can buy nail softeners over the counter. Look for creams with urea as an active ingredient.
Your doctor may also prescribe a nail softener.
Some people use home remedies to soften nails. For example, you can soak your toes in vinegar.
Combining softeners with antifungal treatments
It’s important to know that nail softeners don’t eliminate fungus on their own. Use them with antifungal medications to get the best results.
Always read the instructions carefully before using any product, such as Daktarin Nail Tincture.
How to get rid of toenail fungus
There are a number of ways to treat toenail fungus. Here are some of the most common approaches:
Home remedies
Some people find relief from toenail fungus using home remedies, such as:
- Vinegar soaks. Try soaking your feet for 10 minutes a day in a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts warm water.
- Other remedies. Some people swear by crushed garlic, tea tree oil, or even Vicks VapoRub!
Over-the-counter (OTC) products
You can find a range of products in your local drugstore that promise to help with toenail fungus. Keep in mind that you may not see noticeable improvement for several months.
Prescription topical treatments
If home remedies and OTC products don’t do the trick, your doctor may prescribe a topical medication, such as Loceryl Nail Lacquer. Examples include amorolfine, efinaconazole, tavaborole, and ciclopirox.
Clinical cure rates for these medications are around 35% to 60%, and some products like Dr Remedy Nail Polish are designed to be safer for those prone to fungal infections.
Prescription oral medications
For more severe infections, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication. Examples include fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine.
Clinical cure rates for these medications are around 80%.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a newer treatment option for toenail fungus. Clinical cure rates are around 60% to 75%, but its effectiveness can vary.
Preventing recurrence and maintaining nail health
Okay, so you’ve treated your fungal infection. Now what? You’ll need to be proactive to prevent it from coming back. Here are some things you can do:
- Practice proper nail hygiene: Trim your nails straight across.
- Keep your feet dry and clean.
- Wear breathable socks and shoes.
- Use antifungal powders or sprays regularly.
- Try a diluted vinegar soak: After you’ve finished your treatment, soak your feet in diluted vinegar once or twice a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kerasal really work?
Kerasal is designed to soften nails and improve the appearance of fungal nails, and some users report positive results. However, it doesn’t directly kill the fungus. It primarily helps to smooth the nail surface and allow topical antifungal medications to penetrate more effectively. Individual results can vary.
What dissolves nail fungus?
Unfortunately, nothing truly “dissolves” nail fungus in the sense of completely eradicating it instantly. Antifungal medications, either topical or oral, are the primary treatments. Topical options work by penetrating the nail to kill the fungus, while oral medications work systemically.
Is hydrogen peroxide good for toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has some antifungal properties, but its effectiveness against toenail fungus is limited. It might help to disinfect the area and prevent the spread of infection, but it’s unlikely to cure the fungus on its own. It’s best used as a supplementary measure alongside other antifungal treatments.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off the toenail yourself is generally not recommended. It can be painful, increase the risk of infection, and may not eliminate the fungus entirely, as the fungus often resides in the nail bed. In severe cases, a doctor might surgically remove the nail, but this is usually a last resort.
What does Epsom salt do to nail fungus?
Epsom salt soaks can help soften the nail and reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief from discomfort associated with fungal infections. While Epsom salt isn’t an antifungal treatment itself, it can create a more favorable environment for other topical medications to work and promote overall foot health.
In Conclusion
Toenail fungus can be a real pain to treat. The infection lives deep under your nail, and it’s hard to reach it with medicine. That’s why softening your nails can be helpful. Softening allows the antifungal treatments to get to the source of the problem.
If you think a nail softener might help you, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or podiatrist. They can give you personalized advice and make sure you’re using the right treatment. The key to getting rid of toenail fungus for good is to treat it consistently and take steps to prevent it from coming back.