Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects a large percentage of the population. In fact, research suggests that as many as 14% of us are dealing with this frustrating issue.
One popular home remedy that people often turn to for relief is a foot soak. The idea is that soaking your feet can soften the affected nail, making it easier to treat, and create an environment that’s less friendly to the fungus.
But does a foot soak really work to combat nail fungus? And if so, how should you use a foot soak to maximize its effectiveness? This article explores the potential benefits of a foot soak for nail fungus and provides a guide to using them properly.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus can be caused by different kinds of tiny organisms, including dermatophytes, yeast, and bacteria. These organisms thrive in certain conditions.
Some things that can make you more likely to get toenail fungus include:
- older age
- poor hygiene
- nail injuries
- health conditions such as diabetes
Feet also tend to get sweaty and damp, which creates an ideal environment for fungus to grow.
Why toenail fungus is difficult to treat
Toenail fungus can be tough to treat because the tissue of the nail is hard and thick. It can be difficult for medications to get through the nail to reach the infection.
When you’re looking at treatments, it’s important to understand the difference between getting rid of symptoms and getting rid of the fungus itself. Some treatments have low “clinical cure rates,” meaning that they may make your toenail look better without actually eradicating the fungus.
The science behind foot soaks for toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is stubborn. It’s hard to reach and hard to treat. But foot soaks can help.
How foot soaks can help
Foot soaks create an environment that’s less friendly to fungal growth. Soaking can soften the nail, allowing medications to penetrate more deeply. Some foot soak solutions can even stop the fungus from growing.
Common foot soak ingredients and their benefits
Here are some of the ingredients people use to treat toenail fungus:
- Vinegar. The acidity of vinegar (white or apple cider) can stop fungal growth.
- Epsom salt. Epsom salt may draw out moisture and reduce inflammation, making it a common ingredient in foot soaks.
- Tea tree oil. Some research shows that tea tree oil is an anti-fungal.
Keep reading to learn how to make a foot soak and how to get the most out of it.
Foot soak recipes and best practices
If you’re trying to get rid of nail fungus, a foot soak can be a nice addition to your treatment plan.
DIY foot soak recipes
Vinegar soak
Combine one part vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar) with three parts warm water. Soak your feet for at least 10 minutes.
Tea tree oil soak
Add a few drops of 100% tea tree oil to a basin of warm water. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
Best practices for foot soaks
Soak duration and frequency
Soak your toes in your chosen solution for 10 to 20 minutes. After you’ve finished your treatment, a diluted vinegar soak once or twice a week can help prevent any remaining fungus from reinfecting the nail.
Water temperature
Be sure to use warm water. Hot water can damage your skin.
Drying feet thoroughly
Always dry your feet thoroughly after soaking, particularly between your toes. Dampness encourages fungal growth.
Nail trimming and filing
Proper nail care is essential when you’re dealing with nail fungus. Topical medications may work better if your nails are thinned.
Before trimming or filing, soften your nails with creams containing urea to make the process easier.
Foot soaks and other treatments
A foot soak alone may not be enough to banish your nail fungus. Here are some other therapies, including options like Betadine for skin fungus, you may want to consider.
Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal products
There is a wide range of antifungal creams and ointments available at your local pharmacy or grocery store. After you soak and dry your feet, you can apply these products directly to the affected nails.
It’s important to use them consistently, according to the package directions.
Prescription treatments
If OTC medications don’t clear up the infection, you can ask your doctor about prescription treatments.
Common topical medications include amorolfine, efinaconazole, tavaborole, and ciclopirox. Your doctor may also prescribe oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine.
It’s worth noting that oral medications may not be as effective in older adults.
Other therapies
If medications don’t work for you, you might consider laser therapy or surgery.
Laser therapy is a newer treatment option that uses focused light to kill the fungus. Surgery is a more drastic option that involves removing the infected nail altogether.
Prevention and Long-Term Management
Want to keep toenail fungus away for good? Here’s what I recommend:
- Good Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet every day with soap and water, and always dry them completely, especially between the toes.
- Breathable Shoes and Socks: Wear new shoes and socks that let your feet breathe.
- Don’t Share: Avoid sharing nail clippers and other personal items. Use separate toenail clippers for infected and non-infected nails to prevent spreading the fungus.
- Regular Foot Inspections: Get to know your feet! Check them and your toenails regularly for any changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?
There isn’t a single “number one” cure for toenail fungus that works for everyone. Effective treatments often involve prescription antifungal medications, either topical or oral, prescribed by a doctor. Over-the-counter remedies can help manage symptoms, but usually aren’t strong enough to completely eradicate the infection.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally a good idea to wear clean, breathable socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. Socks can help absorb moisture and prevent the fungus from spreading. Change your socks daily and choose materials like cotton or wool that wick away sweat.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide might have some mild antifungal properties and can help clean the affected area. However, it’s generally not effective enough to completely eliminate a toenail fungus infection on its own. It can be used as part of a broader treatment plan alongside other remedies.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid sharing nail clippers or files with others, as this can spread the infection. Don’t wear tight-fitting shoes that trap moisture. Also, avoid using nail polish on infected nails, as it can trap moisture and worsen the condition. Ignoring the problem and hoping it will go away on its own is also a bad idea.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
You should never attempt to cut your toenail off yourself if it has fungus. This can lead to further complications, such as infection or ingrown toenails. In severe cases, a doctor might surgically remove the nail, but this is a decision that should be made in consultation with a medical professional.
In Conclusion
Foot soaks can be a great way to soften your nails and make them a less inviting place for fungus to grow. While foot soaks alone won’t cure toenail fungus, they can be a good addition to other treatments, like over-the-counter or prescription medications.
It can take a long time to get rid of toenail fungus, so you’ll need to be patient and consistent with your treatment. You’ll also want to take steps to avoid getting it again, like wearing shoes in public showers and keeping your feet clean and dry.