Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common problem that affects more than 23 million adults in the United States. If you’ve got it, you may notice that your toenails have changed color or shape. They might be thicker than usual, too.
There are several ways to treat toenail fungus. Doctors may prescribe topical or oral medications. Laser therapy, and even blue light therapy, are other options.
Traditional treatments have some drawbacks. Medications don’t always work, and they can have side effects. Plus, the fungus can come back even after treatment.
That’s why some people are interested in trying home laser devices. These devices are designed to be used at home, without a doctor’s supervision. But do home nail fungus lasers work? That’s what we’ll explore in this article.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus is a common annoyance that can be tough to get rid of.
What is toenail fungus?
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail. The fungus can infect the nail bed (the skin beneath the nail), the nail plate (the hard part of the nail), and the skin around the nail.
Common causes of toenail fungus are:
- being exposed to fungi in warm, moist places (like public pools and showers)
- having poor foot hygiene
- injuring your nail
Types of toenail fungus
Toenail fungus comes in several forms:
- Distal subungual onychomycosis: This is the most common type, and it affects the nail bed and the underside of the nail.
- White superficial onychomycosis: This type affects the surface of the nail and causes white patches.
- Proximal subungual onychomycosis: This type starts at the base of the nail and is often found in people who have weakened immune systems.
- Candida onychomycosis: This type is caused by Candida yeast. It’s more common in fingernails, but it can also affect toenails.
- Total dystrophic onychomycosis: This is the most severe form. It causes the nail to thicken, crumble, and become completely distorted.
No matter what kind of toenail fungus you have, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. If left untreated, toenail fungus can spread to other nails and even to the skin around your nails.
How Do Home Nail Fungus Lasers Work?
The basic idea behind laser therapy for toenail fungus is pretty simple. The laser emits a beam of light that’s focused on the fungus. This light energy goes right through your toenail to target and kill the infection.
Now, it’s important to know that there’s a big difference between the lasers you can use at home and the ones you’d get at a podiatrist’s office. The home devices are much weaker. A podiatrist will use a more powerful laser for better results.
So, how does it work? The process is called photothermolysis. The laser heats up the fungal cells, damaging them and stopping them from growing. The laser doesn’t remove the fungus or your toenail. It just kills the fungus. Then, as your nail grows out, the healthy nail will replace the old, infected one. It takes time, but that’s the goal.
Effectiveness of Home Laser Devices: What Does the Research Say?
When it comes to home laser devices for nail fungus, the scientific jury is still out. Some studies show promise, while others are less enthusiastic. The truth is, the effectiveness of laser treatment varies, and we need more research to understand the long-term results and figure out the best way to use these devices.
One of the main limitations of home laser devices is their lower power output compared to the lasers used by professionals. This could mean they’re simply not as effective at zapping the fungus. Plus, there aren’t standardized instructions for using these devices, which makes it hard to compare results across different people and situations.
So how do these home lasers stack up against other treatments? Well, topical treatments have a pretty dismal success rate (less than 5%). Oral medications are better, with about a 60% success rate. But, the fungus often comes back within a year.
Despite their limitations, home laser treatments do have some potential upsides. They’re convenient, relatively affordable, and tend to have fewer side effects than prescription treatments. While they might not completely eradicate the fungus, they could provide some relief from symptoms and help your nails heal.
Potential risks and side effects of home laser treatment
The good news is that home laser treatments for nail fungus are generally considered safe. Side effects are rare, but you might feel some warmth or a tingling sensation while you’re using the device.
The most significant risk comes from improper use. It’s super important to choose a well-known brand and follow the instructions exactly. If you don’t, you could end up with skin irritation or even burns.
Before you even think about zapping your toenails with a laser, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist. They can help you decide if a home laser is a good option for you and give you some tips on how to use it safely.
What to Expect During and After Home Laser Treatment
With home laser treatment for nail fungus, you’ll need to be patient. These devices typically require multiple treatment sessions, and you’ll usually space them out every four to eight weeks. It can take several months, or even more than a year, to see real improvement.
Toenails grow slowly, so results don’t happen overnight. You’ve got to use the device consistently, following the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see changes right away.
Even after successful treatment, toenail fungus can come back. It’s important to take steps to prevent reinfection, like keeping your feet dry, wearing breathable socks, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places. Think of it like weeding a garden – you can pull the weeds, but you also need to take steps to keep them from growing back.
When to seek professional help
It’s important to see a doctor when necessary. If you’ve tried treating your nail fungus at home for a few weeks and it’s not getting any better, it’s time to seek professional medical help.
You should also seek professional care in these situations:
- You’re experiencing pain or severe symptoms (like black nail fungus).
- You have underlying health issues like diabetes.
- Suspect you have toenail fungus, seek a nail culture from a podiatrist for diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best foot soak to remove fungus?
While foot soaks can provide temporary relief and may help soften the nail, they’re unlikely to completely remove nail fungus. Some popular soaks include Epsom salts, vinegar solutions (diluted!), and tea tree oil added to water. Remember, consistency is key, but don’t expect miracles.
What really works for toenail fungus?
The most effective treatments for toenail fungus are prescription oral medications and topical antifungal solutions like Ciclopirox Nail Lacquer prescribed by a doctor. These have the best chance of penetrating the nail and eradicating the infection. Over-the-counter treatments, such as using a BioClear Nail Fungus Pen, often have limited success.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Absolutely not! Removing your toenail yourself can lead to serious infections and complications. A doctor may surgically remove a severely infected nail, but this is a last resort and should only be done under sterile medical conditions. Don’t even think about DIY surgery!
Do home laser devices work for nail fungus?
The effectiveness of home laser devices for nail fungus is still debated. While some studies show potential benefits, more research is needed to confirm their long-term efficacy. They are generally considered less effective than prescription treatments. Talk to your doctor before investing in one.
What is the number one home remedy for toenail fungus?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single “number one” home remedy that reliably cures toenail fungus. While some people find relief with remedies like tea tree oil or vinegar, these are often insufficient to eliminate the infection completely. It’s best to consult with a doctor for proven treatment options.
In Closing
Home laser devices may help treat nail fungus, but whether they work well is still up for debate. Laser treatments at a doctor’s office tend to be more effective.
It’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor about toenail fungus. They can help you decide the best way to treat it based on your specific situation.
The best way to get rid of toenail fungus is to use a combination of home treatments, professional care, and things you can do to keep it from coming back. Keep in mind that toenail fungus can come back even after it’s been treated.