Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is not only unsightly, but it can also be uncomfortable and even painful. It’s a common problem that many people would like to solve, so it’s no wonder that a wide variety of treatments exist.
Two of the most popular over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are Opti-Nail and Kerasal. So, let’s compare Opti-Nail vs Kerasal to help you make an informed decision about which one might be right for you.
In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at both products, comparing their ingredients, how well they work, how to apply them, their side effects, and their cost. By the end, you should have a much clearer picture of which treatment best suits your specific needs and preferences.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus isn’t just unsightly. It can also be painful and even lead to other infections if left untreated. So, let’s get a better understanding of what causes it and how it’s diagnosed.
Causes of toenail fungus
Most cases of toenail fungus are caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi that love warm, moist places (like inside your sweaty socks and shoes!). Other types of fungi and molds can also be culprits, though less often.
Certain things can make you more likely to get toenail fungus, such as:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- A nail injury
- Athlete’s foot
Symptoms of toenail fungus
If you have toenail fungus, you might notice:
- Discoloration of the nail (yellow, white, brown, or black)
- Thickening of the nail, which can make it hard to trim
- The nail becomes brittle and crumbles easily
- The shape of the nail is distorted
- In severe cases, pain or discomfort
Getting a proper diagnosis
It’s important to get a proper diagnosis because other conditions, like nail psoriasis, bacterial infections, and injuries, can look like toenail fungus. If you have a severe infection, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, it’s best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Opti-Nail: What you need to know
If you’re comparing Opti-Nail and Kerasal, you’ll want to know some details about each product.
Active ingredient and formulation
Opti-Nail’s active ingredient is tolnaftate, an antifungal medication. Each dose contains 1% tolnaftate.
The inactive ingredients in Opti-Nail help the medication penetrate the nail and make the product easier to apply. Opti-Nail comes as a solution, which means it has a liquid consistency and can be brushed onto the affected nail using an applicator.
How it works
Tolnaftate works by stopping fungi from growing. It changes the shape of the hyphae (the branching filaments of fungi) and slows down the growth of the mycelium (the vegetative part of a fungus), weakening the fungus and eventually killing it.
Tolnaftate works against many types of fungi that cause skin infections, including tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) and tinea cruris (jock itch).
How to use it
To use Opti-Nail, start by washing and drying the affected nail thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer of the solution to the nail and surrounding skin.
You’ll typically need to apply Opti-Nail once or twice a day for several months. It’s important to keep using the product consistently, even if you start to see improvement, to ensure that the fungal infection is completely eradicated.
Kerasal Fungal Nail Renewal: Composition, How It Works, and How to Use It
Let’s take a closer look at Kerasal Fungal Nail Renewal.
Active Ingredients and Formulation
Kerasal includes lactic acid, urea, and propylene glycol. The formulation is a topical solution with a consistency that makes it easy to apply.
How It Works
The lactic acid and urea in Kerasal have a keratolytic effect. That means they soften and loosen the damaged layers of the nail. Propylene glycol hydrates the nail, helping the other ingredients penetrate more effectively.
It’s important to understand that Kerasal doesn’t directly kill the fungus. Instead, it improves the overall nail environment, making it less friendly to fungal growth, which can help to renew the nail.
How to Apply and How Long to Use It
Before applying Kerasal, clean and dry the affected nail thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer once daily.
You’ll need to use the product consistently for several months to see the best results. As the nail softens, clip away the damaged portions.
Opti-Nail vs. Kerasal: A Head-to-Head Comparison
So, which one comes out on top: Opti-Nail or Kerasal? Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.
Efficacy and Clinical Evidence
When it comes to kicking fungus, Opti-Nail (with tolnaftate) has more direct research backing its antifungal properties. Kerasal (lactic acid, urea, and propylene glycol) focuses more on improving the nail’s appearance. Keep in mind that over-the-counter treatments are best for mild to moderate cases. If you’ve got a serious infection, see a doctor.
How long will it take to see results? That depends, but generally, you’ll need to be patient with both. Kerasal might show cosmetic improvements faster, while Opti-Nail needs time to work its antifungal magic.
Side Effects and Safety
Like any medication, both have potential side effects. Opti-Nail might cause skin irritation or redness. Kerasal can sometimes lead to a mild burning sensation. Always read the labels carefully! If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions, check with a doctor before using either product.
Cost and Availability
Price-wise, things can fluctuate. Compare the cost per ounce or per application to get a true sense of value. Both Opti-Nail and Kerasal are generally easy to find at pharmacies and online retailers, but availability can vary.
User Reviews and Ratings
What are other people saying? Opti-Nail users often praise its antifungal effectiveness but sometimes complain about skin irritation. Kerasal fans appreciate the cosmetic improvements but may not always see the antifungal results they were hoping for. User reviews are a great way to get a sense of what to expect, but remember that everyone’s experience is different.
How to choose the right treatment for you
Opti-Nail and Kerasal are both over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for nail fungus, but before choosing, it’s worth researching alternative treatments like blue light nail fungus treatment to see if they may be right for your situation.
How severe is the infection?
If you have a mild to moderate nail fungus infection, an OTC treatment may be enough to clear it up. But if you have a severe infection, you’ll need to see a doctor for prescription medication, such as ciclopirox for nail fungus. It’s also important to consult a doctor if your infection doesn’t get better or gets worse after using an OTC product.
Do you have any sensitivities or preferences?
Before you start using Opti-Nail or Kerasal, read the ingredient list carefully. If you have sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product to your nails.
Also, consider whether you’d prefer a solution or a gel. Both products require consistent use for several months, so make sure you choose a product that you’re willing to use every day.
What’s your budget?
OTC treatments for nail fungus can be expensive, and you’ll need to use them for several months to see results. When deciding between Opti-Nail and Kerasal, weigh the cost of each product against its potential benefits. Also, consider the long-term cost of treatment, since you’ll need to buy more than one bottle or tube to complete the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the strongest over-the-counter antifungal?
Finding the “strongest” OTC antifungal is tricky because effectiveness varies from person to person. Look for products with active ingredients like tolnaftate or undecylenic acid in higher concentrations. Remember that OTC options often manage the infection’s spread rather than completely eradicating it.
Does anything really cure toenail fungus?
Yes, toenail fungus can be cured, but it often requires prescription oral medications. OTC treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent the spread, but complete eradication often needs a stronger approach. Talk to your doctor about the best option for your specific situation.
How long does it take for Opti-Nail to work?
Patience is key with any toenail fungus treatment! Opti-Nail, like other topical options, can take several months to show noticeable improvement. You’ll need to apply it consistently as directed and wait for the healthy nail to grow out, replacing the infected portion. It is important to note that this product might not work for everyone.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
While some people use hydrogen peroxide as a home remedy, there’s limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in completely eliminating toenail fungus. It might have some mild antiseptic properties, but it’s unlikely to penetrate the nail deeply enough to kill the fungus.
What is the fake toenail for toenail fungus?
You’re likely thinking about prosthetic toenails or nail reconstruction. These aren’t treatments but cosmetic solutions, so be mindful of potential issues such as the fungus risk associated with press-on nails. They can improve the appearance of a damaged nail while you’re undergoing treatment for the underlying fungus. They’re typically applied by a podiatrist or trained nail technician.
Closing Thoughts
Opti-Nail contains tolnaftate, an antifungal medication that attacks the fungus that causes nail infections. Kerasal doesn’t contain an antifungal medication. Instead, it uses urea and lactic acid to soften and exfoliate the damaged nail, improving its appearance.
For serious infections, or if you are unsure which product is right for you, see a doctor or other health professional. They can examine your nail and recommend the best treatment.
When deciding between Opti-Nail and Kerasal, think about the severity of the infection, your personal preferences, and your budget.