Toenail fungus is a persistent and common condition that can be tough to get rid of. Traditional treatments, including creams, pills, and even fungal nail patches, often don’t work well, or have unwanted side effects.
Laser therapy, including at home light therapy, has come onto the scene as a possible way to deal with toenail fungus. It could be a better and safer choice than the usual methods. Because of that possibility, many people are searching for the best laser treatment for nail fungus.
In this article, we’ll explore laser treatment for nail fungus, including how it works, what’s good about it, what the risks are, and what you can expect when you get the treatment.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
What is onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail. It usually affects toenails, but it can also affect fingernails.
The infection happens when a fungus gets between your nail plate and nail bed. Fungi love moist, warm places, and your feet inside your shoes are a perfect environment for them.
Toenail fungus is a common condition that affects a large percentage of people.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
Here are some of the most common symptoms of toenail fungus:
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration (yellowish or brownish)
- Brittleness
- Distorted shape
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis)
In some cases, the infection can cause pain or discomfort, especially when you’re wearing shoes.
Limitations of traditional treatments
Traditional treatments for nail fungus are okay, but they have significant limitations. For example, antifungal cream and other topical medications are often ineffective because they can’t penetrate the nail plate well enough to reach the infection. How ineffective are they? They have an unimpressive improvement rate of around 45%.
Oral medications work a little better, with improvement rates ranging from 40% to 66%. However, they can have serious side effects, including liver damage. Plus, both topical and oral medications take months to show results, and recurrence rates are high. You might get rid of the fungus, only to have it come back later.
How laser treatment works for toenail fungus
The science behind laser therapy
Laser therapy uses focused light energy to target and destroy the fungus that has infected your toenail. The heat from the laser kills the fungus without damaging the tissue around it.
There are different kinds of lasers that doctors use for this purpose, including CO2 lasers and YAG lasers. Some devices that have FDA clearance include PinPointe Footlaser, GenesisPlus, and Noveon.
What happens during the procedure
The process starts with cleaning and prepping the toe that has the fungal infection. Next, the doctor applies the laser to the nail and the tissue around it, using short pulses of light.
You usually don’t need anesthesia for this procedure, and it often takes about half an hour.
Laser treatments may be a good option for people who can’t take antifungal medications or for whom medications haven’t worked. Laser treatment is considered a safe and effective alternative.
Benefits of laser treatment
Laser treatment for nail fungus offers several advantages over other treatment options.
- Higher effectiveness: Laser therapy is more likely to cure nail fungus than topical treatments. Studies show a 61% cure rate at 16 weeks and a 91% clinical improvement and 30% cure rate at 180 days.
- Fewer side effects: Oral medications for nail fungus can cause serious side effects. Laser treatment is much safer, with a lower risk of adverse reactions.
- Targeted treatment: The laser targets the fungus directly, without damaging the surrounding tissue.
- Faster results: You might notice some improvement sooner than you would with traditional methods.
Keep in mind that it can take time to see the full results of laser treatment.
What to expect during and after laser treatment
Thinking about trying laser treatment for nail fungus? Here’s what you should know.
Before the procedure
First, you’ll need to meet with a podiatrist or dermatologist to be sure laser treatment is right for you. Look for board-certified dermatologists with specialized training in laser treatments. At your appointment, the doctor will examine your nail and probably take a sample to confirm that you really do have onychomycosis.
During the procedure
When you arrive for your laser treatment, a member of the healthcare team will clean your toe and get it ready. The doctor will then apply the laser to your affected nail with a series of pulses. Most people feel little to no discomfort. Some people report a feeling of warmth.
After the procedure
Because you don’t need anesthesia for laser treatment, you can get back to your regular activities right away.
Be sure to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully. It can take many months (up to a year) for your nail to regrow completely. You may need multiple treatment sessions to get rid of the fungus entirely. Some people need up to four treatment sessions.
Risks and side effects
Laser treatment for nail fungus is generally safe, but it’s not risk-free. Some patients feel pain or a burning sensation during the treatment. A few people may even experience bleeding.
Other potential side effects include temporary discoloration or blistering of the nail.
Scarring is rare, but it’s something to keep in mind. Talk to your doctor about all the potential risks and benefits before deciding if laser treatment is right for you.
Cost and insurance coverage
Unfortunately, laser treatment for toenail fungus isn’t cheap. It’s usually not covered by insurance, and each treatment session can cost you anywhere from $100 to $400. So, make sure you factor that in when you’re weighing your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many laser sessions are needed for nail fungus?
The number of laser sessions required varies depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s response to treatment. Typically, multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are needed to achieve optimal results. Your doctor can provide a more accurate estimate after evaluating your specific case.
What is the most effective laser treatment for nail fungus?
While different laser systems are used, there’s no single “most effective” laser for everyone. The Nd:YAG laser is a common and well-studied option, but the best choice depends on factors like the type of fungus and the thickness of the nail. Your doctor will choose the appropriate laser based on your needs.
What gets rid of nail fungus permanently?
No treatment guarantees permanent eradication of nail fungus, as recurrence is possible. However, laser treatments, along with topical or oral medications, offer a high chance of clearing the infection. Maintaining good foot hygiene and avoiding reinfection are also crucial for long-term success.
What is the success rate of laser fungal nail treatment?
Success rates for laser treatment vary, but studies show that it can be effective in clearing nail fungus in a significant number of cases. However, complete clearance may take several months and depends on factors like the severity of the infection and adherence to post-treatment care.
What is the best laser machine for nail fungus?
There isn’t one universally recognized “best” laser machine. Different devices utilize varying wavelengths and energy levels. Factors like cost, availability, and the doctor’s experience often influence the choice of laser machine used for treatment.
In Summary
Laser treatment looks like a really good option for treating toenail fungus because it seems to work better and have fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
It might not be right for everyone, and you might need more than one treatment, but it could be a great choice if you’re looking for something that works well.
The best way to know if laser treatment is right for you is to talk to a podiatrist or dermatologist. They can help you decide whether laser treatment is a good option for your specific situation.