Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are caused by several different types of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. If you have a fungal nail infection, you might notice that your nails are discolored, thickened, or brittle. These infections can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and difficult to treat.
One over-the-counter treatment option is Proclearz Fungal Shield. This topical medication is designed to treat existing fungal nail infections and prevent new ones from developing. If you’re considering using Proclearz, you’re probably wondering what kind of results you can expect to see both before and after treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Proclearz Fungal Shield and how does it work?
Proclearz Fungal Shield is an over-the-counter treatment designed to tackle toenail fungus. So, how does it actually work?
Key Ingredients and What They Do
Proclearz Fungal Shield typically contains a blend of active and inactive ingredients. The active ingredients are the real workhorses here, designed to fight the fungus directly. Common active ingredients include:
- Tolnaftate: A widely used antifungal agent that stops fungal growth.
- Undecylenic Acid: Another antifungal that helps kill fungus and prevent it from spreading.
- Tea Tree Oil: A natural ingredient known for its antiseptic and antifungal properties.
The concentrations of these active ingredients can vary. The inactive ingredients, like solvents and thickeners, help deliver the active ingredients and improve the product’s texture and application.
How It Works
Proclearz Fungal Shield works by delivering its antifungal ingredients directly to the affected area. The active ingredients penetrate the nail and surrounding tissues, targeting the fungus at its source. The specific types of fungi targeted can vary, but the goal is always to inhibit fungal growth and eventually eliminate the infection.
Consistent application is really important. Fungal infections can be stubborn, and skipping applications can allow the fungus to recover and continue to thrive. Sticking to the recommended application schedule is crucial for effective treatment and seeing visible results. It can take weeks or even months to see full clearing, so patience and persistence are key.
Using ProClearz Fungal Shield: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got your ProClearz Fungal Shield. Now what? Here’s a quick guide on how to use it effectively:
- Prep the area: Wash your affected nail and the skin around it thoroughly. Make sure it’s completely dry before you proceed. If your nail is long, trim it so the product can penetrate easier.
- Apply the product: Use the applicator brush to apply ProClearz to the nail. The recommendation is to apply it twice a day.
- Take precautions: Watch for any side effects like skin irritation or allergic reactions. If things get worse or don’t improve, consult a doctor.
Proclearz Fungal Shield: Before and After Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations when you start using Proclearz Fungal Shield. Nail fungus doesn’t disappear overnight, so here’s what you can expect during the process:
Initial Stages (Weeks 1-4)
During the first month, you might notice a slight reduction in redness or inflammation around the affected nail. However, it’s unlikely you’ll see dramatic visual changes right away.
Keep applying the product as directed, even if you don’t notice immediate improvements. The active ingredients are working to penetrate the nail and target the fungus.
Intermediate Stages (Months 1-3)
Over the next few months, you should start to see more noticeable improvements. New, healthy nail growth may become visible at the base of the nail. As the healthy nail grows out, the affected part of the nail will gradually be trimmed away.
Patience is key during this stage. It’s important to stick to the treatment plan and continue applying Proclearz Fungal Shield consistently.
Later Stages (Months 3-6+)
After several months of consistent use, you should see the infected nail gradually replaced by a healthy one. The duration of treatment will depend on how severe the infection was to begin with.
Keep in mind that full recovery can take a long time, especially for toenails, which grow more slowly. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. With continued use of Proclearz Fungal Shield and proper nail care, you can achieve a healthy, fungus-free nail.
How does Proclearz Fungal Shield compare to other treatments?
If you think you have nail fungus, especially if you’re in a sensitive situation like during pregnancy, you might wonder if Proclearz Fungal Shield is your only choice for treatment. Here’s how it compares to other options:
Over-the-counter (OTC) options
You can find many other antifungal treatments for sale without a prescription. They usually come in the form of topical solutions or creams. Most of these treatments use similar active ingredients as Proclearz Fungal Shield.
The upside of OTC treatments is that they’re easy to get and use. The downside is that they may not be as effective as prescription medications, especially if your infection is severe. They’re often best for mild cases of nail fungus.
Prescription medications
If OTC treatments don’t work, your doctor might prescribe an oral antifungal medication or a prescription-strength topical treatment. These medications are generally more effective than OTC options, but they can also have more side effects.
If you have a severe fungal infection, a prescription treatment may be necessary. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of each option.
Home remedies
You may have heard about home remedies for nail fungus, such as vinegar soaks and tea tree oil. While some people find these remedies helpful, there’s not much scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.
Still, you can use home remedies along with other treatments. Just don’t rely on them as your only way to get rid of the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Neglecting toenail fungus can lead to it spreading, thickening nails, and even causing pain. Avoid sharing nail clippers or files, wearing tight shoes that trap moisture, and walking barefoot in public areas, all of which can exacerbate the problem.
How many times a day should I apply fungal cream?
Always follow the specific instructions on the fungal cream you’re using. Generally, most topical antifungal treatments, like Proclearz, are applied once or twice daily to the affected toenails, ensuring the area is clean and dry beforehand.
How do you know toenail fungus is getting better?
Signs of improvement include new, healthy nail growth at the base of the nail, a decrease in discoloration (yellowing or browning), and a thinning of the nail. The old, infected nail will gradually grow out and be replaced by the healthy nail.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Moist and warm environments are breeding grounds for fungus. Factors that worsen toenail fungus include poor foot hygiene, wearing sweaty socks for extended periods, trauma to the nail, and underlying conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system.
How long does it take to use Proclearz?
The duration of treatment with Proclearz depends on the severity of the infection. It typically takes several months for the healthy nail to fully replace the infected nail. Consistent application as directed is key to achieving optimal results and preventing recurrence. Be patient and persistent!
Summary
Proclearz Fungal Shield can help treat and prevent fungal nail infections. It’s easy to use, but you have to use it consistently and be patient. Fungal nail infections are stubborn, and they take time to clear up. Results won’t happen overnight, so keep up with your treatment plan.
Even after your nails look better, keep using Proclearz to prevent the fungus from coming back. If you’re worried about a possible infection or if you’ve been using Proclearz for a while and your nails don’t look any better, talk to a doctor. They can make sure it’s a fungal infection and help you find the right treatment, whether it’s Proclearz or something else.