Coconut oil is a jack-of-all-trades home remedy, and while some explore its use, it’s also worth exploring other options like Campho Phenique for nail fungus. Some people use it to moisturize their skin and hair. Others swear by its potential antifungal properties. But can coconut oil really help with something like nail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects around 14% of people worldwide. It can cause your nails to become discolored, thick, and brittle.
So, is coconut oil a viable solution for preventing and treating this persistent problem? In this article, we’ll dive into the potential benefits of using coconut oil and other natural remedies to keep your nails healthy and fungus-free.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a very common fungal infection of the toenails. It can be caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds.
Toenail fungus can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, so it’s important to treat the condition as soon as you notice it.
What causes toenail fungus?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing toenail fungus, including:
- Wearing closed-toe shoes for long periods
- Not washing and drying your feet thoroughly, especially after exercising
- Having poor circulation
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having diabetes or athlete’s foot
If your toenails are brittle and dry, that can also increase the risk of infection. Cracks in the nail can allow fungi to enter and cause an infection.
How coconut oil could help your nails
Coconut oil has become a popular home remedy. But what does the science say?
What’s in coconut oil?
Coconut oil is mostly saturated fat. Those saturated fats are mostly triglycerides and medium-chain fatty acids. Medium-chain fatty acids may be the reason coconut oil helps with fungus.
How could coconut oil protect my nails?
Coconut oil is a transepidermal water loss barrier. That’s a fancy way of saying it helps your skin and nails hold onto moisture.
Fungi love to grow in places that are dark, damp, and warm. Anything you can do to keep your nails moisturized may help you prevent toenail fungus.
Well-moisturized nails are stronger and less prone to cracking. If you can prevent cracks from forming in your nails, you may be able to prevent fungi from taking hold.
How else does coconut oil help nails?
Coconut oil may also improve the health of your cuticles and prevent hangnails. If your nails stay moisturized and are supplemented with biotin, they may be less likely to develop ridges.
How to use coconut oil for nail fungus
If you want to give coconut oil a try, here’s how to use it:
- Preparation: Start by thoroughly cleaning and drying the infected nail.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of organic coconut oil directly to the nail. You can gently massage it in.
- Frequency: Repeat this process two or three times a day. Celebrity manicurist Skyy Hadley recommends applying it twice a day until the fungus is gone.
- Additional tips: For best results, use coconut oil in its raw form.
Keep in mind that results may vary, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Other Natural Remedies for Toenail Fungus
If coconut oil isn’t your thing, there are other natural remedies you can try for toenail fungus.
Tea Tree Oil
Besides tea tree oil, other oils like argan oil are known for their antifungal properties.
To use it, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like olive oil or almond oil. Apply the mixture to the affected nail twice a day.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The acidity of apple cider vinegar may help to stop fungus from growing.
Try soaking your feet in a mixture of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water for 15-20 minutes each day.
Garlic
Garlic is another natural ingredient with antifungal properties.
Crush a few garlic cloves and apply the paste directly to the affected nail. Cover it with a bandage and leave it on for about 30 minutes each day.
Baking Soda
Baking soda also has antifungal properties that may help with toenail fungus.
Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the nail, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it off each day.
Preventing toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is pretty gross, so the best thing you can do is prevent it from happening in the first place. Here’s how:
- Practice good foot hygiene: Wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
- Choose breathable footwear: Give your feet some air.
- Change your socks: Don’t wear the same socks all day.
- Use antifungal powder: Especially if you’re prone to foot fungus.
- Wear flip-flops in public areas: Walking barefoot at the pool or in the locker room is just asking for trouble.
- Trim your nails straight across: This will prevent ingrown toenails.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to see a doctor:
- Severe pain
- Nails so thick or distorted that it’s hard to do everyday things
- The infection is spreading
- You’ve tried home treatments for a few months and nothing’s changed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is coconut oil inflammatory?
Actually, coconut oil is generally considered to be anti-inflammatory. It contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects, particularly when applied topically.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can make toenail fungus worse. These include wearing tight shoes that create a warm, moist environment, having poor foot hygiene, having minor nail or skin injuries, and having underlying health conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Exposure to communal showers or swimming pools can also increase the risk.
What happens if you put coconut oil on your nails?
Coconut oil is a fantastic moisturizer! Applying it to your nails can help strengthen them, prevent breakage, and keep your cuticles hydrated. While it might have some antifungal properties, it’s generally used more for nail health than as a primary treatment for fungus.
How to use coconut oil for nails overnight?
It’s super easy! Before bed, wash and dry your nails thoroughly. Then, apply a small amount of coconut oil to each nail and massage it into the nail bed and cuticles. You can even wear cotton gloves overnight to help the oil absorb better and prevent it from getting on your bedding.
What oil kills nail fungus?
While coconut oil has some antifungal properties, other oils are more potent for treating nail fungus. Tea tree oil is a popular choice, as it contains compounds known to combat fungal infections. Oregano oil is another option, but it’s very strong and needs to be diluted before applying to the skin.
In Conclusion
Coconut oil might help keep your nails healthy and could potentially help fight a nail fungus infection. But it’s always best to take steps to prevent nail fungus in the first place. If you think you have nail fungus, see a doctor so you can get the right treatment.