Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection that’s also notoriously stubborn. If you have it, you’ll notice that your toenails are discolored, thickened, and brittle. They may even start to separate from the nail bed.
If you’ve got it, you might be tempted to try anything to get rid of it. One home remedy that keeps popping up is Listerine mouthwash. But can Listerine for fingernail fungus really work?
In this article, we’ll explore whether Listerine can help with toenail fungus. We’ll also discuss other ways to treat toenail fungus and when it’s time to see a doctor.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that gets in between your toenail and your toe. Because the infection lives under your toenail, it can be tough to treat.
Causes and risk factors
Here are some things that raise your risk for toenail fungus:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- Nail injuries
- A weak immune system
Recognizing the symptoms
If you have toenail fungus, you might notice:
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration (yellow, white, or brown)
- Brittleness
- Distorted shape
- Separation from the nail bed
- An unpleasant odor
Listerine: The antiseptic mouthwash
Listerine is a brand-name mouthwash that people sometimes use to treat toenail fungus.
Ingredients and antifungal properties
The original Listerine mouthwash contains the active ingredients eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. These ingredients are known to have antiseptic properties, and some people think they may also have antifungal properties. That’s why some people believe Listerine might prevent fungus from growing.
How Listerine is thought to work
The idea behind using Listerine is that its antiseptic properties may create an environment that’s not friendly to fungal growth.
It’s important to remember that using Listerine for nail fungus is a home remedy. It’s not a cure that’s been proven by science.
Doctor opinion on Listerine
According to experts, Listerine isn’t a particularly effective treatment. Still, some people want to try it because it’s less aggressive than other treatments.
Using Listerine for toenail fungus: A DIY approach
So, you want to try using Listerine on your toenail fungus? The idea is that you soak your affected foot in it. The original flavor is usually recommended.
Here’s how to do it:
- Submerge your foot and nails in Listerine.
- Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do this two or three times per week.
Before you soak, you should trim your nails. This will allow the Listerine to better penetrate the nail bed.
Remember, you need to be consistent and patient. It can take a while to see results, so don’t give up after just a few tries!
Limitations of Listerine as a Toenail Fungus Treatment
I need to be upfront with you: there’s not a lot of solid, scientific evidence that Listerine is a reliable toenail fungus treatment. While some people swear by it, it’s important to understand its limitations.
First, Listerine probably won’t be effective if you have a severe infection, or if the fungus has gone deep down into your nail bed. In those cases, you’ll need something stronger.
Second, even if it does seem to help, don’t expect a permanent cure. You’re probably going to be battling that fungus for a while. Finally, soaking your feet in Listerine for long periods could irritate your skin. If you notice any redness, itching, or burning, stop using it!
What else can you do to treat toenail fungus?
If you’re looking for an alternative to Listerine, there are a few other at-home treatments you can try, including exploring options like henna for nail fungus.
Other home remedies
Some people swear by Vicks VapoRub, tea tree oil, ozonized sunflower oil, garlic, or even Emuaid for fungus nails to treat their nail fungus.
Some of these remedies have shown promise in studies, but more research is needed before experts can say for sure whether they work.
Over-the-counter antifungal treatments
You can find many antifungal creams and lotions at your local drugstore. These might be more effective than Listerine for some people, depending on the type of fungus you have and how severe your infection is.
When to see a doctor
If you’ve tried a few home remedies and they’re not working, or if your infection seems to be getting worse, it’s time to see a doctor. A dermatologist or podiatrist can properly diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment plan for you.
It’s especially important to seek professional medical advice if you have diabetes or a compromised immune system. These conditions can make nail fungus infections more difficult to treat and can lead to serious complications.
Professional treatment options for toenail fungus
If you’re struggling with toenail fungus, a podiatrist can help. Prescription antifungal creams and lacquers can sometimes do the trick. For more severe infections, your doctor might prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or terbinafine. These are more potent but can also have more side effects.
You may also find that laser treatment helps, but more research is needed. In some cases, your doctor might recommend removing the nail entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put tea tree oil directly on nails?
Yes, you can apply tea tree oil directly to your nails, but it’s generally recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. This helps prevent potential skin irritation. Even diluted, always do a patch test first to check for sensitivity.
What kills fingernail fungus the fastest?
There’s no magic bullet for quickly eliminating fingernail fungus. Prescription antifungal medications, either oral or topical, are typically the most effective, but they take time—often several months—to work. Over-the-counter remedies, including home treatments, generally have lower success rates and require consistent use.
How do you use Listerine for nail fungus?
Some people soak their affected nails in Listerine mouthwash, typically for about 30 minutes, once or twice daily. The theory is that the antiseptic ingredients in Listerine may help inhibit fungal growth. However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, and it’s important to note that it’s not a proven treatment.
What is the best thing to soak nail fungus in?
Vinegar (especially apple cider vinegar) is a popular soaking option, along with Epsom salts. Some also use baking soda. While these may offer some relief and potentially inhibit fungal growth, they are unlikely to eradicate the infection completely. Prescription or clinically proven treatments are generally more effective.
How do you fight nail fungus in 10 minutes?
Unfortunately, you can’t effectively fight nail fungus in just 10 minutes. It requires consistent and prolonged treatment. While a quick cleaning or application of a topical remedy might offer temporary relief, it won’t cure the infection. Patience and consistent application of a chosen treatment are key.
Conclusion
While some people swear by Listerine as a home remedy for toenail fungus, it’s important to remember that it’s not a proven cure. It might help a little with a mild case, but it’s not a substitute for proper medical treatment.
If you think you have toenail fungus, the best thing to do is talk to your doctor to get a diagnosis and find out what treatment options are right for you. You can also help prevent toenail fungus by keeping your feet clean and dry, trimming your nails the right way, and wearing shoes in public places.