Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection. If you’ve got it, you’re not alone. Fungal infections account for more than half of all nail problems that bring people to the doctor’s office.
You can pick up toenail fungus just about anywhere, especially places where your feet are bare and damp, like swimming pools and locker rooms. Once it gets under your nail, it can be tough to get rid of.
Plenty of treatments are available, both over-the-counter and by prescription. But what about glycolic acid? You’ve probably heard of it in skincare products because it’s an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that can exfoliate and brighten your skin. But could glycolic acid also help tackle toenail fungus?
That’s what we’re here to find out: Does glycolic acid kill toenail fungus, or is this just another internet myth?
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus is not pretty. It’s also more common than you might think. So let’s take a closer look at what it is and who gets it.
What is onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection of the nails. It’s also called tinea unguium.
Many different types of fungi can cause toenail fungus.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
Toenail fungus symptoms include:
- Discoloration of the nail
- Thickening of the nail
- An unpleasant odor
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
Keep in mind that the symptoms can vary from person to person.
Risk factors and susceptibility
Some people are more at risk than others of developing toenail fungus. Risk factors include:
- Having athlete’s foot
- Diabetes
- A nail injury
- Poor circulation
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Psoriasis
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
- Autoimmune disorders
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from plants. Glycolic acid is often derived from sugarcane.
Other AHAs you might have heard of are lactic acid (from milk) and citric acid (from citrus fruits).
Glycolic Acid in Skincare
Glycolic acid is often used in skincare products because it can:
- exfoliate
- reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- treat acne
These results are possible because glycolic acid breaks down the bonds between skin cells, which helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal newer, healthier skin underneath.
Can AHAs kill fungus?
Acids, in general, can have antifungal properties. They may work by:
- disrupting the cell membranes of fungi
- creating a pH environment that is unfavorable to fungal growth
So far, there have not been many studies on AHAs and fungal infections. More research is needed to determine whether glycolic acid or other AHAs can treat fungal infections, such as toenail fungus.
Glycolic Acid for Toenail Fungus: What Does the Science Say?
So, does glycolic acid kill toenail fungus? Here’s what the science says (or doesn’t say):
Direct Research and Studies
There’s not a lot of research out there looking at glycolic acid specifically for toenail fungus. In fact, I didn’t find any. This means we can’t say definitively whether it works or not. But let’s look at some indirect evidence and potential benefits.
Indirect Evidence and Potential Benefits
Even without direct studies, we can explore how glycolic acid might help with toenail fungus:
- Exfoliation and Nail Penetration: Glycolic acid is an exfoliant. It gets rid of dead skin cells. Maybe it could help antifungal medications get through the nail and down to the fungus.
- Creating an Unfavorable Environment: Perhaps glycolic acid could change the pH of the nail, making it harder for the fungus to thrive.
- Supporting Role in Treatment: It’s possible that glycolic acid could be used along with traditional antifungal treatments to boost their effectiveness.
Limitations and Considerations
Even if glycolic acid could help, there are some things to keep in mind:
- Nail Structure: Toenails are tough! It’s hard to get any topical treatment, including glycolic acid, to penetrate the nail plate and reach the fungus underneath.
- Concentration and Formulation: The strength of the glycolic acid and how it’s formulated (cream, gel, etc.) could make a big difference in whether it has any effect.
- Lack of Specific Studies: We really need more research to know for sure if glycolic acid is an effective treatment for toenail fungus.
The bottom line is that there’s no solid evidence that glycolic acid kills toenail fungus. It might have some benefits, but more research is needed. If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, it’s best to talk to a doctor about proven treatments.
Traditional and alternative treatments for toenail fungus
Toenail fungus can be a real drag, but there are many options for getting rid of it. Here are a few traditional and alternative treatments to consider.
Traditional antifungal medications
When it comes to traditional treatments, you’ve got two main categories: topical and oral. Topical treatments are applied directly to the nail, but they have limitations. They might not penetrate the nail deeply enough to kill the fungus, and they often take a long time to work. Oral medications, on the other hand, are more effective because they work from the inside out. However, they can come with potential side effects, so it’s important to weigh the benefits and risks with your doctor.
Laser treatment for toenail fungus
Laser treatment is another option that’s gaining popularity. The process involves filing down the nail, which is a form of debriding, applying circular pulses, and targeting the surrounding nail bed. A special type of laser called Nd:YAG is often used.
Laser treatment offers several advantages over traditional methods. It’s non-invasive, doesn’t involve chemicals, and can provide faster results. Plus, it typically requires only 4-6 sessions at one-week intervals.
Other alternative treatments
If you’re looking for more natural approaches, there are a few alternative treatments to explore, including some who suggest coconut oil. Tea tree oil has anecdotal evidence suggesting it might be beneficial. And vinegar soaks might help inhibit fungal growth, though the science is still developing.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Safely
If you and your doctor have decided to try glycolic acid for your toenail fungus, here are some important safety tips.
Choosing the Right Product
When you’re shopping for a glycolic acid product, pay attention to how concentrated it is and how it’s formulated. Start with a lower concentration to see how your skin responds. And before you slather it all over your toes, do a patch test on a small area to make sure you don’t have a bad reaction.
Application Techniques
Before you put on any glycolic acid, make sure your nail is clean and prepped. Then, carefully apply the product, following the instructions on the label. Don’t overdo it with the applications. The label should tell you how often to use it.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Keep an eye out for skin irritation or sensitivity. Glycolic acid can sometimes make your skin red, itchy, or peel. If that happens, stop using it and give your doctor a call.
And remember, if you’re not sure about something or if things get worse, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor or podiatrist. They can give you personalized advice and make sure you’re on the right track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you leave glycolic acid on too long?
Leaving glycolic acid on your skin for too long, or using too high a concentration, can cause irritation, redness, burning, and even chemical burns. It’s super important to follow product instructions carefully and start with a low concentration to see how your skin reacts.
What is the best acid for toenail fungus?
While glycolic acid might help by exfoliating the nail and allowing other treatments to penetrate better, it’s not considered the “best” acid for toenail fungus. More effective options include undecylenic acid, tea tree oil, and prescription-strength antifungals like ciclopirox. Always chat with a doctor for the best treatment plan.
Can I leave glycolic acid on overnight?
Generally, no, you shouldn’t leave glycolic acid on overnight, especially if you’re new to using it. Leaving it on for extended periods significantly increases the risk of irritation and damage to the surrounding skin. Follow the recommended application time on the product label.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for toenail fungus due to its ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have mild antifungal properties. While not a cure, it may help to inhibit fungal growth and relieve symptoms in some cases. Results vary from person to person, and it’s not a substitute for proper medical treatment.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Toenail fungus rarely goes away on its own and can spread. Avoid sharing nail clippers or files with others. Don’t wear the same shoes every day without letting them air out. And definitely don’t pick at or try to cut out the infected nail yourself, as this can lead to infection and further complications. See a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Key Takeaways
While there’s no direct evidence that glycolic acid kills toenail fungus, its exfoliating properties might help other medications penetrate the nail bed better. It’s important to remember that we don’t know for sure if glycolic acid is an effective treatment for toenail fungus.
If you think you have toenail fungus, talk to your doctor or another health professional. They can give you a diagnosis and help you decide on a treatment plan.
Toenail fungus can be tough to get rid of, so a comprehensive approach using traditional antifungals along with other treatments is often best. More research is needed to find new and better ways to deal with toenail fungus, including whether glycolic acid could play a role.