Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection that can affect your fingernails and toenails. When you have nail fungus, your nails may change color or thicken. They can also become brittle and crack.
While toenails are more prone to fungal infections, your fingernails aren’t immune, and can be especially problematic with gel nail fungus. So, if you’re dealing with a fungal infection in your fingernails, you might be wondering if the same treatments used for toenail fungus will work.
This article will explore whether those fungi nail treatments are effective and safe for fingernails, giving you the information you need to make informed decisions about your nail health. We’ll also cover some reasons why you might want to seek out medical care if you have nail fungus.
Understanding nail fungus (onychomycosis)
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail. Various kinds of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeast, and molds, can cause it.
Fungal infections are more common on toenails because feet are often in dark, damp places like shoes and socks.
Symptoms of nail fungus
If you have a nail fungal infection, you might notice:
- thickened nails
- discoloration (whitish-yellow or brownish)
- brittle nails
- a crumbly texture
- ragged edges
- misshapen nails
- separation from the nail bed
- a bad odor
Sometimes, white patches appear on the nail. This is a type of fungal infection called white superficial onychomycosis.
Fingernail vs. toenail fungus: Similarities and differences
Fingernail fungus and toenail fungus are both common infections that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. But are they the same? Yes and no. Fungal nail infections can affect both your fingernails and your toenails, but there are some key differences.
Similarities in causation and symptoms
The same types of fungus can cause infections in both fingernails and toenails, including dermatophytes, yeast, and molds.
The symptoms are also generally the same:
- Discoloration
- Thickening
- Brittleness
Differences in prevalence, treatment, and growth rates
Toenail fungus is more common than fingernail fungus, probably because your feet spend more time in dark, moist environments (like sweaty shoes) where fungus thrives.
Fingernails also grow faster than toenails, which means that treatment for fingernail fungus may take less time to work. For example, oral treatments typically require at least three months to clear up toenail infections but only about six weeks for fingernail infections.
Treatment options: Are they interchangeable?
There are several ways to treat nail fungus, and it’s smart to talk with a healthcare provider about which treatment is best for you.
Topical treatments
Topical treatments such as antifungal creams or polishes containing amorolfine and ciclopirox are applied directly to the nail, but prescription options such as Efinaconazole (brand name Jublia) may be more effective in some cases. They can be a good option, especially when the infection is mild.
But topical treatments may not work as well on thick nails or nails that have a severe infection. They’re often more effective on fingernails because fingernails tend to grow faster than toenails.
Oral medications
Oral antifungal medications such as itraconazole and terbinafine are often more effective than topical treatments, particularly for toenails.
In general, oral medications work well on both fingernail and toenail infections, but the dose and how long you need to take the medication may vary.
Other treatments
If the infection is severe, your doctor may suggest removing the nail altogether. There are also newer treatments, such as fungus nail laser therapy and photodynamic therapy, that are being used to treat nail fungus.
What to consider when treating fingernail fungus
It’s important to remember that oral medications can have side effects. You’ll want to discuss these with your doctor.
Fingernail infections tend to respond more quickly to treatment because fingernails grow faster than toenails. So, if you have a fingernail infection, you may be able to get rid of it more quickly than if you have a toenail infection.
Factors affecting treatment success
When you’re trying to get rid of a nail fungus, there are a few things that can affect how well the treatment works.
Severity of infection
The more severe the infection is, the longer it will take to get rid of it. If you have a mild fingernail infection, over-the-counter topical treatments may be enough to do the trick. But if you have a severe toenail infection, you may need to see a doctor for prescription medication.
Type of fungus
Different types of fungi respond to different medications. To get an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may need to take a nail sample for testing, including microscopy and fungal culture.
Patient compliance
With nail fungus, it’s easy to give up on treatment because it often takes months or even a year to see results. But it’s important to stick with the treatment plan your doctor prescribes.
Underlying health conditions
If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, it can be harder to get rid of a nail fungus. These conditions can make it harder for your body to fight off the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use Fungi Nail pen on fingernails?
Yes, Fungi Nail pens are generally designed for use on both fingernails and toenails. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the product label and instructions to ensure it’s suitable for your specific needs. Fingernail infections can sometimes be more sensitive, so follow directions carefully.
Does FungiCure work on nails?
FungiCure, like other over-the-counter antifungal treatments, aims to inhibit the growth of fungus and improve the appearance of infected nails. Effectiveness varies depending on the severity of the infection and how consistently you use the product. For severe or persistent infections, consulting a doctor is recommended.
Does Kerasal really work?
Kerasal is a topical treatment intended to improve the appearance of nails affected by fungus, often by softening and exfoliating the damaged areas. While it can make nails look better, it doesn’t necessarily eliminate the fungus itself. Many users see improvement, but results can vary.
How do I get rid of fungus on my fingernails?
Treating fingernail fungus usually involves a combination of approaches. You can start with over-the-counter antifungal medications, but for more stubborn infections, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal drugs or topical treatments. Good nail hygiene is also key, including keeping nails short and dry.
How do you permanently treat nail fungus?
Permanently eliminating nail fungus can be challenging. Oral antifungal medications are often the most effective, but they can have potential side effects. Laser therapy is another option, but its long-term effectiveness is still being studied. Consistent treatment and good hygiene are crucial for achieving lasting results.
Putting It All Together
While treatments for toenail fungus can work on fingernails, how well they work depends on a few things, including how bad the infection is, what kind of fungus is causing it, and how closely you follow the treatment plan.
It’s important to see a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan for you. Toenail fungus treatments can take a long time to work, so you’ll need to be patient and stick with it.