Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a frustratingly common condition. It’s persistent, it’s not pretty, and it can affect your overall nail health. Thousands of Americans deal with toenail fungus every year, and many are seeking new and more effective ways to get rid of it.
One such method is light therapy, which you can now do at home. As interest grows in alternative and non-invasive treatments, at home light therapy for toenail fungus is becoming increasingly popular.
This article will explore the types of fungus that cause toenail infections, how light therapy works, other treatment options, and when it’s time to seek professional help from a podiatrist or other healthcare provider.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common cause of nail problems. Fungal infections are responsible for about half of all nail abnormalities. Toenails are more prone to fungus than fingernails because they’re more likely to be in a moist environment.
Types of toenail fungus
The most common types of toenail fungus include:
- Distal subungual onychomycosis
- White superficial onychomycosis, which affects the surface of the nail
- Proximal subungual onychomycosis, which is less common and often shows up in people with immune deficiencies
- Candida onychomycosis, which is caused by yeast and usually affects fingernails
- Total dystrophic onychomycosis, which is the most severe form and causes the nail to become completely distorted
Recognizing the symptoms
If you have a toenail fungal infection, you might notice:
- Discoloration (yellowish, brownish, or whitish)
- Thickening
- Brittleness or crumbling
- A distorted shape
- A foul odor
Conventional treatments for toenail fungus
If you think you have toenail fungus, there are a few treatments your doctor might recommend:
- Topical Antifungal Medications: These come in the form of antifungal nail polishes and creams. They’re usually the first thing doctors will suggest, and they can work well for mild infections. The downside is that sometimes they can’t penetrate the nail to get to the infection.
- Oral Antifungal Medications: If the topical stuff doesn’t work, your doctor might prescribe an oral medication. These are more effective for severe infections, but they can come with side effects and require monitoring.
- Laser Treatment (Professional): This is a highly effective treatment, usually done by a podiatrist. It can be pricey, though, and you’ll probably need to go back for multiple sessions.
- Surgical Nail Removal: In really bad cases, you might need to have the nail removed. This is usually a last resort, though.
How red light therapy works to treat toenail fungus
Red light therapy is a type of treatment that some people are using at home to get rid of toenail fungus.
The science behind red light therapy
When you use red light therapy, the light can directly kill the fungus through a process called photoablation and another known as photodynamic antimicrobial therapy (PACT).
Scientists have found that red and near-infrared light (between 660nm and 850nm) can directly kill bacteria or fungi.
Additional benefits of red light therapy
Besides killing fungus, red light therapy can also:
- Improve circulation to the area
- Reduce inflammation
- Increase cellular energy (by stimulating ATP synthesis)
- Increase keratin production (which helps your nails grow in healthier)
If you’re interested in trying red light therapy at home, it’s a good idea to talk with a doctor or podiatrist about whether it’s right for you.
Home laser and red light therapy devices: What to consider
So, you’re thinking about trying an at-home device? Here’s what you need to know:
Effectiveness of home devices
At-home laser devices aren’t as strong as what you’d get at the doctor’s office, but they still might help make your symptoms a little better and encourage healing. Red light therapy, on the other hand, may be a better option because it’s safer, faster, and more effective.
Choosing a reputable device
If you’re going to try this at home, make sure you pick a device with the right wavelengths (660nm to 850nm) and enough power. Look for clear instructions and safety certifications, too.
Types of devices available
There are many different kinds of red light therapy devices designed to treat nail fungus. Do some research to see which one is right for you.
Treatment duration and consistency
Be patient! Treatment can take weeks or even months, so it’s important to have realistic expectations for a nail fungus treatment plan. And remember, you have to use the device consistently to get results and keep the fungus from coming back.
How to use red light therapy at home for toenail fungus
If you’re considering red light therapy for toenail fungus, here’s a quick rundown of how to do it at home:
Preparation
- Before each treatment, be sure to thoroughly clean and dry the affected toenail.
- Keep your feet bare during treatment.
- Treat your feet after a shower for better results.
Treatment process
- Always follow the instructions that came with your device.
- The average treatment time is 10 to 15 minutes per day.
Post-treatment care
- Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks immediately after treatment.
- Maintain good foot hygiene to prevent reinfection.
Comparing home light therapy to professional treatments
At-home light therapy for toenail fungus offers a few advantages. First, it’s cheaper than professional treatments. Second, it’s convenient to do it yourself, in your own home.
However, at-home light therapy isn’t as powerful as professional treatments and may require longer treatment times. If your toenail fungus doesn’t improve within a few weeks, or if you experience pain or other symptoms, seek professional medical help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color light kills fungus?
Red and blue light are the colors most often cited in studies for their antifungal properties. Red light is thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, while blue light can directly target and destroy fungal cells. The specific wavelengths used are crucial for efficacy.
Does light cure toenail fungus?
Light therapy shows promise for treating toenail fungus, but it’s not a guaranteed cure. Results vary, and it’s often used in conjunction with other treatments. While some studies are encouraging, more research is needed to determine its overall effectiveness. It is important to maintain realistic expectations.
Can I use any LED light for nails?
No, not just any LED light will work for treating toenail fungus. Specific wavelengths and intensities are required to target the fungus effectively. Devices marketed for nail curing (like those used for gel manicures) are not designed for this purpose and are unlikely to have any therapeutic benefit against fungus.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Untreated toenail fungus can worsen and spread to other nails. Avoid sharing nail clippers or files, and keep your feet clean and dry. Don’t wear tight shoes or socks that trap moisture. Also, don’t expect a quick fix; treatment takes time and consistency.
Do toenail fungus lights work?
The effectiveness of toenail fungus lights is a subject of ongoing research. Some people experience improvement with these devices, while others don’t see significant results. It’s essential to choose a device that has been clinically tested and to follow the instructions carefully. Consistent use is key, and it’s advisable to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
Light therapy at home could be a safe, convenient, and even effective way to treat toenail fungus. But if you’re going to try it, it’s important to get a device from a company you trust and to follow the instructions for use. If you don’t, you could end up wasting your money on a device that doesn’t work. And if your toenail fungus doesn’t get better or seems to get worse, contact your doctor for medical advice.