Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common problem that can make your nails look unsightly. Many people struggle with this infection, and it’s estimated that as many as one in three people will experience it at some point in their lives.
Traditional treatments for toenail fungus, like topical creams and oral medications, often have limitations. They may not always be effective, and they can sometimes cause unwanted side effects.
Laser treatment for nail fungus offers a modern alternative. It presents a promising solution for eliminating toenail fungus and restoring the health and appearance of your nails.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is a contagious fungal infection that many people get at some point in their lives. You’re more likely to get it if you:
- Don’t practice good hygiene
- Have injured a toenail
- Have diabetes
Toenail fungus is easy to spot. Here are some telltale signs:
- Your toenails are discolored.
- Your toenails are thickened.
- Your toenails are brittle.
To diagnose toenail fungus, doctors will give your toes a visual examination, and they may also order lab tests.
Limitations of traditional treatments
If you’ve tried to get rid of toenail fungus with traditional treatments, you probably know that they don’t always work.
Topical medications
Topical treatments, like antifungal nail polish, can be up to 60% effective. But keep in mind that these treatments can take a long time, sometimes months or even years, to get rid of the fungus.
Oral medications
Oral medications are more effective than topical treatments for clearing up nail fungus. However, these medications have potential side effects that you should discuss with a doctor. Some older medications, like Terbinafine, require routine blood testing.
Cutera GenesisPlus™ laser treatment
If you’re wondering about laser treatment for nail fungus, you should know that Cutera GenesisPlus™ laser treatment has FDA approval.
How laser treatment works
The laser targets the source of the infection without harming the surrounding tissue. The laser light passes through the toenail and kills the fungus.
Benefits of laser treatment
Laser treatment is a safe option for toenail fungus, and research suggests that it’s effective. In studies, laser treatment eliminated the infection up to 85 percent of the time.
Treatment process
Laser treatment isn’t a one-time fix. You’ll need to go in for a series of laser treatments over a period of months to fully clear the infection.
During a treatment session, you’ll experience minimal discomfort, and you won’t have any downtime afterward.
Results and Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about laser treatment for nail fungus because results take time. Remember, nails grow very slowly – about one millimeter per month.
Because of this slow growth, it can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months (or even longer!) to see complete clearing of the fungus. You might notice your nails growing back healthier, but it’ll be a gradual process. Don’t expect a dramatic transformation overnight, and be patient. It could take a year before you see significant improvement.
Cost and insurance coverage
Laser nail fungus treatment typically costs between $599 and $899 per treatment package. While your insurance may cover the initial consultation, laser treatment for nail fungus is often considered cosmetic. As a result, your plan may not cover the full cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint toenails after laser treatment?
It’s usually best to avoid painting your toenails immediately after laser treatment for nail fungus. Your doctor will give you specific aftercare instructions, but generally, you want to let your nails breathe and heal properly. Applying nail polish too soon could trap moisture and potentially hinder the healing process.
Do home toenail fungus lasers work?
The effectiveness of home toenail fungus lasers is a bit of a gray area. While some may offer temporary improvement, they’re generally not as powerful or effective as the lasers used in a doctor’s office. It’s always best to consult with a podiatrist or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Does laser nail fungus treatment really work?
Laser nail fungus treatment can be effective, but it’s not a guaranteed cure. Its success depends on various factors, including the severity of the infection and your individual response to the treatment. It often requires multiple sessions and can be more effective when combined with other treatments.
What is the new treatment for nail fungus?
Besides laser therapy, newer treatments for nail fungus include topical medications with improved penetration and oral antifungals. Talk to your doctor about the most appropriate and up-to-date treatment options for your specific case.
Do nail salons care if you have toenail fungus?
Reputable nail salons should absolutely care if you have toenail fungus, as it’s highly contagious. They should take precautions to prevent the spread of infection, such as using sterilized equipment and refusing service to clients with active infections. If you’re concerned, it’s best to let them know beforehand.
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments for toenail fungus, laser treatment might be for you. It’s important to treat toenail fungus since it can lead to other bacterial infections and may require surgery to remove the nail in severe cases.
For expert advice and foot care secrets, talk to a podiatrist to see if laser treatment is the right option for you.