Fungal nail infections — also known as onychomycosis — are a common problem. If you have one, you’re not alone. These infections can be unsightly, and sometimes even painful. You might feel self-conscious about your feet or hands, depending on which nails are affected.
Traditional treatments like topical creams and oral medications such as Fluconazole have their drawbacks. They don’t always work, and oral medications, in particular, can come with some unpleasant side effects.
Laser therapy offers a modern alternative. But if you’re considering this option, you’re probably wondering: How many laser treatments for nail fungus will I need to see results? That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this article.
What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?
Nail fungus happens when microscopic organisms infect the nail bed.
The usual culprits are dermatophytes, non-dermatophytes, and yeasts.
Some things that increase your risk of a fungal nail infection are:
- Older age
- Weakened immune system
- Diabetes
- Athlete’s foot
- Poor circulation
- Trauma to the nail
- Wearing shoes that keep your feet from breathing
Fungi flourish in warm, moist environments. That’s why toenails, stuck inside socks and shoes, are more prone to fungal infections than fingernails are.
Some activities that increase your risk of fungal nail infections are:
- Wearing insulated gloves or housework gloves
- Gardening
- Biking (because of the enclosed footwear)
Recognizing the Symptoms of Nail Fungus
If you’re dealing with nail fungus, you’ll likely notice some telltale signs. The nail might change color, turning white, yellow, brown, or even black. It can also thicken up, becoming brittle and maybe even starting to crumble. You might see the nail shape get distorted or ragged, or even see the nail separate from the nail bed itself. And, let’s be honest, sometimes there’s an unpleasant smell, too.
It’s important to remember that nail fungus isn’t something that just goes away on its own. You’ll need treatment to kick it to the curb.
How laser therapy works for nail fungus
Some people find that laser treatment is an effective way to treat toenail fungus.
The Science Behind Laser Treatment
Laser therapy uses focused beams of light to target and destroy the fungus without having to use medications, similar to how infrared light therapy works. High-powered lasers deliver energy to the nail, penetrating the nail bed to heat the fungal cells. This heat injures or kills the fungus without damaging the tissue around the nail.
Advantages of Laser Therapy
Laser treatment is non-invasive and has minimal discomfort. There’s no downtime and you can avoid the potential side effects that sometimes come with oral medications.
How many laser treatments do I need?
The number of laser treatments needed for nail fungus varies depending on several things.
Severity of the infection
The extent of the fungal infection is a big factor. If you’ve caught the infection early, you may need fewer treatments. More severe infections usually need more treatment sessions to get the fungus under control. When the infection is deep in the nail, it can take additional sessions to reach every affected area.
Type of fungus
Different types of fungi respond differently to laser treatment. Some species are more resistant and require additional sessions to get rid of the infection.
Individual response to treatment
Everyone’s body responds differently to laser therapy. Factors like your immune system and your overall health can impact how well the treatment works for you. A healthy immune system can help your body fight off the fungus more effectively.
Laser technology used
The type of laser technology used can also affect the number of treatments needed. Some clinics use more advanced lasers that may require fewer treatments. For example, the Cutera GenesisPlus™ and Q-Clear™ lasers are two advanced options that may reduce the number of sessions required.
Nail growth rate
Nail growth is slow. On average, nails grow about 1 mm per month. This means it can take several months (4-12 months or longer) to see complete clearance as the healthy nail grows out. Patience is key, as it takes time for the treated nail to be replaced by a healthy one.
How many laser treatments will I need?
Laser treatment for nail fungus usually requires a series of treatments over a period of months.
A typical plan involves multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. For example, some clinics use a three-treatment approach, with two months between each treatment.
The number of sessions will vary based on how your nails respond to the laser and the severity of the infection. Some clinics report that one treatment works for 90 percent of patients. Other clinics report that patients need an average of four sessions, but that the number can vary.
What to expect during and after treatment
The good news is that laser treatment is generally painless or causes only minimal discomfort.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions carefully. That means keeping the treated area clean and dry, and using antifungal foot powder or spray as directed.
Keep in mind that it takes time to see the results. The laser is intended to kill the fungus, but it won’t instantly make your nail look better. It takes time for a healthy new nail to grow out and replace the nail that was infected.
Preventing recurrence and maintaining healthy nails
Laser treatment can be effective in eliminating nail fungus. But you’ll want to take steps to make sure your nails stay healthy and the fungus doesn’t come back.
Good foot hygiene
Taking care of your feet is essential for preventing nail fungal infections. Make sure you:
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes.
- Wear breathable socks made of cotton or bamboo.
- Wear open-toed slippers whenever possible.
- Wear shower shoes in public showers and locker rooms.
Also, avoid sharing personal items such as nail clippers, towels, and shoes.
Other preventative measures
Using an antifungal foot powder or spray regularly can help keep fungus at bay. Also, trim your nails properly and take care to avoid injuring your nails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of doctor does laser treatment for toenail fungus?
Laser treatment for toenail fungus is typically performed by a podiatrist (foot and ankle specialist) or a dermatologist (skin, hair, and nail specialist). It’s best to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific condition.
Does Mayo Clinic have laser treatment for toenail fungus?
Yes, Mayo Clinic does offer laser treatment for toenail fungus among other treatment options. It’s advisable to contact Mayo Clinic directly to confirm availability, discuss candidacy, and understand their specific protocols.
How many laser treatments does it take to get rid of toenail fungus?
The number of laser treatments needed varies depending on the severity of the infection and individual response. Typically, patients require between 3 to 6 treatments, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Complete clearing may take several months as the healthy nail grows out.
Is laser treatment for toenail fungus worth it?
Laser treatment’s worth depends on individual circumstances and expectations. It can be an effective alternative to topical or oral medications, especially for those who haven’t responded well to other treatments or are unable to take oral antifungals. Discuss the potential benefits, risks, and costs with your doctor to make an informed decision.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
While laser treatment and other therapies can significantly reduce or eliminate toenail fungus, complete eradication can be challenging. Recurrence is possible. Consistent adherence to treatment plans, good foot hygiene, and addressing underlying conditions can help minimize the risk of reinfection.
Summary
Laser treatment is a safe, effective way to treat nail fungus. The number of treatments needed varies depending on how bad the fungus is and how well you respond to the laser. To prevent the fungus from coming back, it’s important to practice good hygiene, such as keeping your feet clean and dry and wearing shoes that fit well.
If you think laser treatment might be right for you, talk with a podiatrist. It’s important to choose a clinic with experienced practitioners and advanced laser technology, to increase your chances of success and help you avoid complications, and to be sure the treatment methods, such as the Dr Kimberly Langdon nail fungus treatment, are effective.
Laser therapy offers some significant benefits over traditional treatments for nail fungus. You won’t have to worry about side effects or discomfort, and laser treatment has a high success rate.