Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a popular supplement that many people take to improve the health of their hair, skin, and nails. You can find it in many over-the-counter supplements because some believe it can make brittle nails stronger and healthier.
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection that can change the appearance of your nails, making them yellow, thick, and brittle. It can also change the shape of your nails and even cause them to separate from the nail bed.
But can biotin really help prevent or treat nail fungus? This article will explore that question. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for any nail issues, as they can properly diagnose the cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
Understanding nail fungus
Toenail fungus is caused by microorganisms, including yeast and bacteria. In most cases, nail fungus is caused by dermatophytes.
You’re more likely to get nail fungus if you:
- are older
- have poor circulation
- have injured your nail
- have certain medical conditions
How is nail fungus diagnosed?
If you think you might have nail fungus, you’ll need to see a doctor for an exam and diagnosis.
During the exam, the doctor will look at your nail and the skin around it. The doctor may clip off a small piece of your nail to send to a lab to figure out what kind of fungus is causing the problem.
Conventional treatments for nail fungus
If you suspect you have nail fungus, you should see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Here are some common treatments your doctor may recommend.
Topical antifungal medications
Topical treatments include antifungal nail polishes (such as ciclopirox) and creams (such as efinaconazole and tavaborole). Depending on the type of fungus, how severe the infection is, and your overall health, a topical treatment may be a good choice for you.
For topical medications to work best, you may need to thin your nails before applying the medication. Your doctor can tell you how to do that safely. You’ll need to be patient and follow the directions carefully. For example, you may need to use an antifungal nail polish every day for nearly a year.
Oral antifungal medications
Oral antifungal drugs, such as itraconazole, are often a first-line treatment for nail fungus. But it’s important to know that these medications may be less effective in older adults. They may also have side effects or interact with other medications you’re taking. Talk to your doctor about whether an oral medication is right for you.
Other treatments
In severe cases, surgery may be an option to remove the infected nail. Laser treatments are also emerging as a possible treatment for nail fungus, but more research is needed.
Biotin: What it is and how it affects nail health
What is biotin?
Biotin, also called vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin. It helps your body with cell growth and metabolism, which is how your body turns food into energy.
Biotin and nail structure
Biotin is essential for making keratin, a protein that’s a key component of nails. Keratin gives nails their structure and strength, so some people believe that taking biotin supplements can make nails thicker and less brittle. Some research suggests that biotin supplements might help strengthen weak or brittle fingernails.
Research on biotin and nail health
A lot of people take biotin to help with hair and nail growth. But the scientific evidence is limited. Most studies on biotin and nail health have been small, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits.
Biotin and Nail Fungus: Is There a Connection?
Okay, so let’s be clear: biotin isn’t going to directly treat or prevent nail fungus. Biotin is really all about making your nails stronger and healthier, not fighting off infections.
So, while biotin might give your nails a boost, it doesn’t have any antifungal superpowers. Nail fungus needs antifungal medication to get better.
Think of it this way: biotin can be a good sidekick to help your nails recover during or after you treat the real problem — the fungus. But you absolutely must address the underlying fungal infection. Don’t skip the antifungal treatment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What vitamin kills toenail fungus?
There isn’t a specific vitamin that directly “kills” toenail fungus. While some vitamins contribute to overall nail health, they don’t have antifungal properties. Treatment usually involves topical or oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus, including wearing tight-fitting shoes that create a warm, moist environment, poor foot hygiene, injuries to the nail, and conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Regularly exposing your feet to communal areas like locker rooms or swimming pools without protection can also increase your risk.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid ignoring the infection, as it can spread to other nails or skin. Don’t share nail clippers or files. Avoid covering up the fungus with nail polish for extended periods, as this can trap moisture. And definitely don’t self-treat with unproven remedies without consulting a doctor.
What is the downside of taking biotin?
While generally considered safe, biotin supplementation can sometimes interfere with certain lab tests, potentially leading to inaccurate results. In rare cases, high doses of biotin may cause mild digestive upset. It’s important to inform your doctor if you’re taking biotin, especially before undergoing any blood work.
Can you take too much biotin for your nails?
While biotin is often promoted for nail health, there’s limited scientific evidence to support that it significantly strengthens nails in everyone. Taking excessive amounts of biotin won’t necessarily make your nails stronger and could potentially lead to inaccurate lab test results. Always follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
To Conclude
Taking biotin may help improve the overall health of your nails. It might make them stronger and less likely to break. However, biotin won’t cure a nail fungus infection.
If you think you have nail fungus, it’s really important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options, and to learn about beginning nail fungus prevention and early treatment tips. Don’t try to treat nail fungus on your own without talking to a doctor first.
Biotin can be a helpful addition to your nail care routine, but you’ll still need professional medical advice to get rid of nail fungus.