Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can affect up to 10% of people worldwide. It can cause your toenails to thicken, discolor, and even crumble. Understandably, many people who live with toenail fungus feel self-conscious and uncomfortable.
Traditional treatments include prescription antifungal pills, but these medications can come with side effects and potential drug interactions. That’s why many people are looking for alternatives, including laser treatment for toenail fungus.
But is laser treatment for toenail fungus FDA approved?
The short answer is that the FDA has cleared some laser devices for this use. In this article, we’ll explore which lasers have been cleared by the FDA, how these treatments work, what you can expect during a laser treatment session, and other important factors like cost and effectiveness.
Understanding onychomycosis and its treatments
What is onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection in your toenail. If you have it, you might notice that your toenail has become:
- Thickened
- Discolored, usually yellow or brown
- Brittle
Toenail fungus affects a large number of people. Besides looking unpleasant, it can cause pain and discomfort that affects your overall quality of life.
Traditional treatment options
For many years, the go-to treatments for toenail fungus have been oral and topical medications.
Oral antifungal medications
Oral medications used to be the gold standard for treating toenail fungus. However, they can have potential side effects, as well as the risk of interacting with other medications you may be taking.
Topical antifungal treatments
Creams, gels, and other topical treatments tend to be less effective than oral medications. They’re often prescribed for mild cases of toenail fungus.
Laser treatments cleared by the FDA for toenail fungus
The FDA has cleared some laser devices for the treatment of onychomycosis (toenail fungus). That means the FDA has reviewed the research and determined that the device is safe and effective enough to be sold for its intended use.
Here are some examples of lasers that have been cleared by the FDA:
- PinPointe™ Laser. One study showed that this laser cleared up the nails of 80% of participants after 12 months.
- Erchonia Lunula Laser. This is a low-level laser therapy device. It uses two wavelengths (635nm and 405nm) to boost its effectiveness.
- Other laser devices. You may also see Footlaser, Genesis Plus, and Noveon® mentioned as laser options for toenail fungus.
There are two main types of lasers used to treat toenail fungus:
- High-intensity (heat-based) lasers. These traditional lasers use heat to kill the fungus.
- Low-level lasers (cold lasers). The Erchonia Lunula Laser is an example of a cold laser. It’s a non-thermal, painless treatment. Cold lasers may have fewer side effects than heat-based lasers.
How laser treatment works to fight toenail fungus
Laser treatments seek to improve the appearance of an infected nail by targeting and killing the fungus.
How lasers target the fungus
Heat-based lasers damage or kill the fungus with heat.
The Lunula Laser is a low-level laser, similar to infrared light therapy, that produces peroxynitrite, which kills fungal pathogens.
Advantages of different laser types
Non-thermal lasers are:
- Pain-free
- Don’t require downtime
- Don’t carry heat-related risks
What happens during and after laser treatment?
The Treatment Process
First, your podiatrist will need to check your feet to see if laser treatment is the right option for you. They will also need to remove dead tissue from around the affected nail.
The laser treatment itself is pretty quick. The laser is applied to the infected nail. The whole process is usually over in less than 30 minutes. The Lunula Laser is even faster, requiring four weekly sessions of only 12 minutes each.
Keep in mind that you may need multiple laser sessions to get rid of the infection.
What to Expect After Treatment
It takes time to see results. It can take six months to a year to see the full results of laser treatment. The key sign of success is new, clear nail growth.
After laser treatment, you’ll need to take steps to prevent reinfection, including considering treatments like Dr. G’s Clear Nail Antifungal Treatment. Sterilize your shoes, use antifungal sprays, and treat any other possible sources of infection to prevent toenail fungus from returning.
Cost, Efficacy, and Considerations
Cost of Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for toenail fungus tends to be more expensive than oral or topical treatments, averaging around $1,000 for a complete course of treatment. Because it’s considered cosmetic, most insurance plans won’t help you pay for it.
Efficacy and Clinical Results
Some clinical trials have indicated success with laser treatment. For example, one study showed that the Lunula Laser had an 89% response rate, and another showed that the PinPointe™ laser resulted in 80% nail clearing.
Keep in mind, though, that any treatment for toenail fungus carries a risk of recurrence. The fungus is tenacious, and it’s important to continue good hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.
Important Considerations
If you’re considering laser treatment, your first step should be to talk with a podiatrist or dermatologist. They can assess your specific situation, discuss all available treatment options, and help you understand what to expect from laser therapy.
It’s also important to remember that individual results can vary. How well laser treatment works for you will depend on the severity of your infection and your individual health factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Vicks VapoRub sometimes seem to work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil, which have some antifungal properties. While it might not eradicate the fungus completely, it can temporarily suppress its growth and improve the appearance of the nail in mild cases. However, it’s generally not as effective as prescription treatments.
Does insurance cover laser treatment for toenail fungus?
Coverage for laser treatment for toenail fungus varies widely depending on your insurance plan. Many insurance companies consider it a cosmetic procedure and may not cover it. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific policy and potential out-of-pocket costs.
Has anyone successfully gotten rid of toenail fungus?
Yes, many people have successfully eliminated toenail fungus through various treatments, including topical and oral medications, laser therapy, and even surgical removal in severe cases. Success rates vary depending on the severity of the infection, the chosen treatment method, and individual adherence to the treatment plan.
Is it better to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for toenail fungus?
Both podiatrists and dermatologists can diagnose and treat toenail fungus. Podiatrists specialize in foot care, while dermatologists focus on skin, hair, and nail conditions. The best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you suspect other foot-related issues, a podiatrist might be a better option.
Does toenail fungus come back after laser treatment?
While laser treatment can be effective, toenail fungus can recur even after successful treatment. Factors that increase the risk of recurrence include poor foot hygiene, weakened immune system, and continued exposure to fungal environments. Following preventive measures, such as keeping feet dry and wearing breathable shoes, can help minimize the risk of reinfection.
The Bottom Line
While some laser devices have been cleared by the FDA for treating toenail fungus (onychomycosis), it’s important to understand that “FDA-cleared” isn’t the same as “FDA-approved.” Various types of lasers are used, some based on heat and others using low-level laser therapy.
Before considering laser treatment, talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the benefits against the risks and understand the costs involved. They can also help determine if laser treatment is the right choice for your specific case.
Remember that results from laser treatment can take time to appear, and there’s always a chance of re-infection. Taking preventative measures, like keeping your feet clean and dry and wearing appropriate footwear, is essential for maintaining healthy nails after treatment.