Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection that can affect your fingernails and toenails.
One of the newest potential treatments is blue light for nail fungus. Here’s what you need to know.
Laser therapy for nail fungus
Hyper Blue laser treatment is a quick and safe procedure that targets onychomycosis, or nail fungus.
How Hyper Blue laser works
Most patients report feeling no discomfort during the procedure, only a warming sensation.
Treatment details
Each treatment takes less than 20 minutes. To get the best results, you’ll likely need three treatments spaced five weeks apart. It takes about 10 to 12 months for nails to grow out completely.
Practical considerations
Be sure to remove nail polish before your treatment appointment. Keep in mind that most insurance plans do not cover laser therapy for nail fungus.
Fungal Nail Revitalizer Kit with Light-Activated Therapy
If you’re exploring light therapy for nail fungus, you may come across products like the Fungal Nail Revitalizer Kit with Light-Activated Therapy.
This product is a two-step system that uses light to treat nail fungus.
The manufacturer claims the kit will:
- Produce visible results in a single day
- Improve nail appearance in more than 95% of users after a week
- Restore the appearance of nails damaged by discoloration and brittleness
The manufacturer also says the product has been tested by podiatrists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for nail fungus, it’s not a proven treatment. Its potential effectiveness likely stems from ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which may have some antifungal properties and can soften the nail, allowing for better penetration of other treatments. However, clinical evidence is limited.
What color LED light kills toenail fungus?
Blue light and red light are the most studied wavelengths for treating nail fungus. Blue light, in particular, has shown promise in laboratory settings for its antimicrobial effects. Some at-home devices utilize blue light to target the fungus directly.
Is there a light that kills fungus?
Yes, certain wavelengths of light, particularly blue and red light, have demonstrated antifungal properties. They work by disrupting the fungal cells’ metabolic processes, inhibiting their growth, or even killing them. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the type of fungus and the light’s intensity and duration of exposure.
Does light therapy work for toenail fungus?
Light therapy for toenail fungus is a relatively new approach. Clinical studies suggest it can be effective in some cases, especially when combined with other treatments like topical antifungals or even using a nail care pen for fungus. More research is still needed to determine the optimal light wavelengths, treatment protocols, and long-term efficacy.
What is Dr. Scholl’s nail fungus light?
Dr. Scholl’s offers a device that uses blue light technology to treat toenail fungus. The device is designed for home use and emits blue light onto the affected nail, aiming to inhibit fungal growth. It’s typically used as part of a broader treatment plan that may include other topical medications.
In Conclusion
Blue light therapy is being studied as a treatment for nail fungus. Laser therapy, including options like the Lunula Laser, is one approach that’s performed in a doctor’s office. Another uses an at-home revitalizer kit.
If you think you have nail fungus, talk to a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include options like nail fungus band-aid patches, Kerasal, or even laser treatment. A professional can help make sure you get the right treatment. Also, take steps to prevent reinfection by keeping your feet clean and dry, and by practicing good hygiene.