Let’s face it: toenails can be embarrassing. Whether they’re discolored, thick, or just plain misshapen, foot fungus and other conditions can make you want to hide your feet away in socks and shoes.
KeryFlex is a cosmetic procedure that can help restore the look of your toenails, and a KeryFlex nail restoration kit might also be an option. It’s a way to make damaged or disfigured nails look better, even if there’s an underlying fungal infection.
If you’re considering KeryFlex nail restoration, reviews and research are essential. This article provides a comprehensive overview of KeryFlex, exploring its benefits, potential drawbacks, and important factors to consider before making a decision.
What is KeryFlex and how does it work?
KeryFlex is a cosmetic nail restoration system that can make damaged nails look healthy again.
It’s a non-systemic cosmetic treatment, meaning it doesn’t involve taking any medication or undergoing any invasive procedures. Instead, KeryFlex uses a special resin that bonds to your existing nail to create an artificial nail that looks and feels natural.
How KeryFlex is applied
First, the nail is prepared, and then the KeryFlex resin is applied to the nail bed. This is a quick procedure, usually taking only 15 to 30 minutes.
After about 6 to 8 weeks, you may need to have the resin reapplied to maintain the appearance of your nails.
To be a candidate for KeryFlex, you must have at least 15% of your natural nail present. If you don’t have enough natural nail, other options may be better for you.
Benefits of KeryFlex Nail Restoration
KeryFlex boasts a lot of benefits if you’re looking to restore the appearance of your nails. Here are a few of the most common:
- Immediate Cosmetic Improvement: KeryFlex gives you a nail that looks good right away, even if your natural nail is damaged or misshapen.
- Non-Permeable and Durable: The KeryFlex nail doesn’t let moisture through, which helps prevent fungal growth. Plus, they’re tough enough to handle your everyday activities.
- Nail Polish Friendly: You can paint KeryFlex nails just like your own, so you can still express yourself with different colors and styles.
- Psychological Boost: Let’s face it, when your nails look good, you feel good. KeryFlex can help improve your confidence and self-esteem.
What to keep in mind about KeryFlex
KeryFlex nail restoration can be a quick fix, but it’s not necessarily right for everyone.
KeryFlex is not a treatment
The most important thing to know is that KeryFlex is a cosmetic procedure. It can make your nails look and feel better, but it won’t cure the underlying condition that’s causing the damage.
If you have a fungal infection, for example, you’ll need to treat that separately.
Who should avoid KeryFlex
KeryFlex may not be a good choice if you have:
- peripheral vascular disease
- peripheral neuropathy
- ingrown toenails
It’s also not recommended if you’re pregnant or if you have potential allergies to the KeryFlex materials.
Detachment is possible
KeryFlex nails can sometimes detach, especially if they’re exposed to repetitive trauma or if they weren’t applied correctly.
Maintenance is required
KeryFlex nails typically need to be reapplied every 6 to 8 weeks.
If you have KeryFlex nails, you should also file them regularly, but avoid clipping them.
Who is a good candidate for KeryFlex?
KeryFlex nail restoration works well for many people, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of who typically benefits most from this treatment:
- People with toenail fungus: KeryFlex can improve the appearance of your nails while you’re undergoing treatment for the underlying fungal infection.
- People with nail damage: If your nails have been damaged by an injury or other condition, KeryFlex can restore a more natural look.
- People with realistic expectations: It’s important to remember that KeryFlex is not a permanent fix and requires regular maintenance by a professional.
Maintaining Your KeryFlex Nails
So, you’ve got your KeryFlex nails. Now what? Here’s how to keep them (and your feet!) healthy:
- Proper Hygiene: Keep your toes clean and dry. This will help prevent any fungal growth or infection from taking hold.
- Footwear Considerations: Your podiatrist may recommend footwear modifications to help reduce pressure and trauma to your toes. Listen to them!
- Regular Check-ups: Don’t skip those routine visits to the podiatrist. They’ll monitor the health of your natural nail underneath the KeryFlex and make sure the application is still doing its job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim with KeryFlex?
Yes, you can generally swim with KeryFlex. It’s a non-porous nail restoration that’s designed to be durable and resistant to water damage. However, prolonged exposure to heavily chlorinated water might affect the appearance over time, so rinsing your feet afterward is a good idea.
Can KeryFlex cause fungus?
KeryFlex itself doesn’t cause fungus. In fact, it can be applied to nails affected by fungus after the diseased portion has been debrided. However, it’s crucial to treat any underlying fungal infection before or concurrently with KeryFlex to prevent it from spreading under the restoration.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has some antifungal properties, but it’s generally not considered a highly effective treatment for toenail fungus. While it might help with mild cases or as a supplementary treatment, prescription or over-the-counter antifungal medications are usually more effective.
Can you use acetone on KeryFlex?
No, you should avoid using acetone on KeryFlex. Acetone can damage or dissolve the KeryFlex material. If you need to remove nail polish, use an acetone-free nail polish remover.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Some people find that Vicks VapoRub helps with nail fungus because it contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have some antifungal properties. While anecdotal evidence suggests it can be helpful, clinical studies haven’t definitively proven its effectiveness, and it’s not a substitute for prescribed antifungal treatments.
In Summary
KeryFlex can provide immediate cosmetic improvement if your nails are damaged, and you may even consider KeryFlex at home options. It can boost your confidence and help you feel better about the appearance of your feet. However, KeryFlex isn’t a treatment; it’s a cosmetic fix. You’ll need to maintain it, and it won’t solve any underlying nail problems.
Before you try KeryFlex, it’s important to talk with a podiatrist. They can help you decide if KeryFlex is the right choice for you and make sure you’re addressing any underlying conditions that are causing your nail problems.
KeryFlex can be a useful way to improve the appearance of your nails and feel better about your feet while you’re working on fixing any underlying issues.