Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common problem. It can be unsightly, annoying, and even painful, and it can have a negative impact on your overall quality of life.
If you’re looking for a way to get rid of your toenail fungus, you may have heard of NeoClear. NeoClear is a type of laser treatment that’s sometimes used to treat toenail fungus.
This article will cover the different kinds of toenail fungus, how to treat it, and when to seek professional help for your condition. We’ll also talk about laser treatments you can get at a doctor’s office and the ones you can do at home, including NeoClear for toenail fungus.
Types of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can take different forms.
- Distal Subungual Onychomycosis: This is the most common type of toenail fungus. It affects the nail bed and the underside of the nail.
- White Superficial Onychomycosis: This type shows up as white spots on the surface of the nail.
- Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis: Less common, this type of toenail fungus is often seen in people who have weakened immune systems.
- Candida Onychomycosis: This type is caused by yeast, not by dermatophytes (the fungi that cause many other infections).
- Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis: This is the most severe form of toenail fungus. It causes the nail to thicken and crumble completely.
NeoClear Laser Treatment: How it Works
Laser treatments for toenail fungus use targeted beams of light to kill the fungus without damaging the surrounding tissue, similar to blue light nail fungus laser treatments. It’s like using a sniper rifle instead of a shotgun.
NeoClear is one particular type of laser that’s showing promise. It uses a specific wavelength of light that penetrates the nail and heats up the fungal cells, destroying them. Some studies suggest that NeoClear might be faster and more effective than other laser treatments, potentially requiring fewer sessions.
Typically, a NeoClear treatment involves a few sessions, each lasting only a short time. There’s usually no downtime or recovery period, so you can walk out of the doctor’s office and get right back to your day.
Home laser devices vs. professional NeoClear treatment
You might be wondering how at-home laser devices stack up against professional laser treatments like NeoClear. At-home lasers are convenient and affordable, with minimal side effects. However, they’re less powerful, and they might only reduce your symptoms instead of completely getting rid of the fungus.
Professional laser treatments are typically performed by a podiatrist and are more effective. With any laser treatment, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable practitioner or device.
Other treatments for toenail fungus
If NeoClear doesn’t sound like the right choice, there are other ways to deal with a toenail fungus infection.
Topical antifungal medications
Antifungal nail polishes can be a treatment option, but they have limits. Talk with your doctor to see if they’re right for you.
Oral antifungal medications
Oral antifungal medications, such as Lakesia, are often more effective at treating toenail fungus than topical treatments, but they require a prescription and can cause side effects. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits.
Surgical nail removal
If you have a severe case of toenail fungus, your doctor might recommend surgical removal of the nail. This is usually a last resort.
When to seek professional help
Home remedies can sometimes help with mild cases of toenail fungus, but if you don’t see any improvement after a few weeks, it’s time to call a doctor.
You should also seek professional help immediately if you experience any pain, severe symptoms (like black nail fungus), or if you have underlying health issues like diabetes. A podiatrist can properly diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment options for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do home lasers work for toenail fungus?
Home laser devices for toenail fungus are available, but their effectiveness is debated. Some studies show modest improvement, but results vary, and they’re generally not as effective as professional laser treatments or prescription medications. It’s essential to manage expectations and consult a doctor before using one.
What is the strongest antifungal over the counter?
Over-the-counter antifungal treatments for toenail fungus typically contain ingredients like tolnaftate or undecylenic acid. While these can help manage mild infections, they’re often not strong enough to penetrate the nail and eradicate the fungus completely. Prescription medications are usually more effective for stubborn cases.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Toenail fungus can worsen over time. Avoid wearing tight shoes that trap moisture, sharing nail clippers or files, and walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms or swimming pools. Also, don’t attempt to self-treat with unproven remedies without consulting a doctor.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off your toenail won’t cure the fungus. The infection lies within the nail bed, not just the nail itself. While trimming the affected nail can help with comfort, it’s not a substitute for proper antifungal treatment. Consult a doctor for the best course of action.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be challenging. Prescription oral antifungal medications, like terbinafine or itraconazole, are often the most effective for achieving a permanent cure. Laser treatments performed by a professional also offer a good chance of success. Consistent treatment and patience are key, as it can take several months for the nail to grow out completely and clear the infection.
Wrapping Up
NeoClear offers a professional treatment option for toenail fungus, but it’s still important to talk with your doctor about what’s going on with your feet. They can make sure you get the right diagnosis and the right treatment plan.
Don’t wait to take care of your feet. The sooner you start, the better.