Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a pretty common condition that can affect your toenails and fingernails. It can cause discoloration, thickening, and even crumbling of the nail. If you think you might have it, you’re probably wondering about treatment options. And, if you’re like many people, you’re probably wondering: can I just cover it up with nail polish?
This article will explore different ways to treat nail fungus, from topical creams and solutions to oral medications and even laser therapy. We’ll also discuss whether you can safely use nail polish to cover up the infection while you’re undergoing treatment.
But first, it’s really important to emphasize that you should always talk to your doctor before starting any treatment for nail fungus. Self-treating can be risky, and it’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis to make sure it’s actually nail fungus and not something else. Your doctor can also help you determine the best treatment option based on the severity of your infection, your overall health, and any potential side effects of the medications.
We’ll take a balanced look at the effectiveness of different treatments, potential side effects, and other important considerations to help you make an informed decision in consultation with your doctor. This way, you can find a solution that works best for you and get your nails looking healthy again.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is a common condition that can affect both toenails and fingernails, though it’s more common on toenails. It’s not usually serious, but it can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
Causes and Risk Factors
Fungal infections develop when fungi get under your nail, often through small cracks or cuts in the surrounding skin. Common culprits include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. These organisms flourish in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or damp bathroom floors.
Certain risk factors can make you more susceptible to nail fungus, including:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Poor hygiene
- Nail trauma (an injury to the nail)
- Wearing tight-fitting shoes
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of nail fungus can vary, but common signs include:
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration (yellowish-brown or whitish)
- Brittleness or crumbling of the nail
- Distortion of the nail shape
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
It’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional if you suspect you have nail fungus. They can examine your nail visually and may take a sample of nail clippings for laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis. This is important because other conditions, like psoriasis, can mimic nail fungus, and the treatment will be different.
Topical Treatments: Nail Polishes and Creams
If you’re looking for a way to deal with nail fungus, you’ll find that there are several options available to you, including products like Dr Scholl’s Fungal Nail Revitalizer. Some of them can be purchased over the counter, and some are available by prescription only.
Types of Topical Treatments
There are two main types of topical treatments for nail fungus: nail polishes and creams. Nail polishes that contain antifungal medications are often the first choice for treating nail fungus. Common ingredients in these polishes include ciclopirox and amorolfine.
Topical creams and solutions can also be effective. Some products combine urea and bifonazole. The urea softens the nail, allowing the antifungal medication to penetrate more easily.
How to Apply Topical Treatments
To get the most out of topical treatments, it is important to use them correctly.
For nail polishes, start by cleaning and filing the nail. Then, apply a thin layer of polish to the entire surface of the nail and the skin around it.
For topical creams and solutions, begin by cleaning and drying the affected area. Apply a thin layer of cream or solution, and cover it with a bandage if your doctor recommends it.
Effectiveness of Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are generally less effective than oral medications, but they can still be a good option for mild to moderate infections that only affect a limited area of the nail.
For example, studies show that approximately 30 out of 100 people who use ciclopirox nail polish will no longer have a detectable fungal nail infection after one year.
Combination therapies can be more effective. About 51 out of 100 people who use urea and bifonazole cream will have no detectable fungal infection three months after treatment.
Oral medications for nail fungus
If your nail fungus doesn’t respond to topical treatments, your doctor might recommend oral antifungal medications. These medications are more powerful and can reach the infection from within your body. However, they also come with potential side effects, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Types of oral antifungal medications
Here are some of the most common oral medications prescribed for nail fungus:
- Terbinafine: This is often the first choice for dermatophyte infections, which are the most common cause of nail fungus.
- Itraconazole: This is another oral option that can be effective. One study showed that about 43% of people taking itraconazole had no detectable fungal infection after three months of treatment.
- Fluconazole: This is typically used as a last resort when other treatments aren’t suitable, as it often requires a longer treatment duration.
Dosage and treatment duration
The dosage and treatment duration for oral antifungal medications will vary depending on the specific medication, the severity of your infection, and its location. Here’s a general overview:
- Terbinafine: The treatment duration depends on the severity and location of the infection.
- Itraconazole: Your doctor may prescribe continuous or pulse therapy, which involves taking the medication for a specific period, stopping, and then repeating the cycle.
- Fluconazole: Treatment with fluconazole usually lasts longer than with other oral medications.
How well do oral medications work?
Oral medications are generally more effective than topical treatments, especially for severe nail fungus infections. For example, studies have shown that about 76% of people taking terbinafine had no detectable fungal infection after three months of treatment.
Potential Side Effects and Drug Interactions of Oral Medications
If your doctor recommends an oral medication for nail fungus, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and drug interactions that can occur.
Terbinafine Side Effects
Terbinafine, sold under the brand name Lamisil, is a common antifungal medication, but it can cause side effects such as:
- Liver problems
- Skin rash
- Gastrointestinal issues
In rare cases, people taking terbinafine have experienced liver failure and severe allergic reactions.
Itraconazole Side Effects
Itraconazole, sometimes sold under the brand name Sporanox, can cause these side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
Itraconazole can also interact with medications, including statins and certain heart medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about everything you take.
Fluconazole Side Effects
Fluconazole, also known as Diflucan, can cause:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Again, it’s important to discuss all medications with your doctor to avoid harmful drug interactions.
Monitoring Liver Function
Oral antifungal medications can sometimes cause liver damage, so regular blood tests are needed to monitor liver function. If you’re undergoing treatment for nail fungus, your doctor will probably want you to get bloodwork done periodically.
Let your doctor know right away if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or fatigue that doesn’t go away.
Other treatment options and considerations
If the nail polish isn’t working, you may need to consider other interventions.
Laser treatment
Laser treatment is a more recent treatment option for nail fungus. It targets the fungus with light, but it’s still pretty new. More research is needed to fully understand how well it works over the long term.
Surgical nail removal
If the infection is severe and doesn’t respond to other treatments, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the nail. But this is generally a last resort.
Nail removal comes with risks, such as pain, infection, and problems with how the nail grows back.
Home remedies and alternative treatments
You may have heard about home remedies like tea tree oil or vinegar soaks. While some people swear by them, there’s not much solid scientific proof that they work.
It’s best not to rely only on home remedies without talking to a doctor first. Delaying proper medical treatment can make the infection worse.
Address underlying conditions
Sometimes, nail fungus is more common or harder to treat if you have an underlying condition like diabetes. If you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels can help the nail fungus treatment work better.
It’s also essential to maintain good foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry to help prevent fungal infections from taking hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cover nail fungus with nail polish?
While you can cover nail fungus with nail polish, it’s generally not recommended. Nail polish can trap moisture and create a dark, warm environment, which are ideal conditions for the fungus to thrive and potentially worsen the infection. It’s best to let your nails breathe and focus on treating the underlying fungal infection.
Is there a paint that hides nail fungus?
There isn’t a specific “paint” designed to hide nail fungus and simultaneously treat it. Regular nail polish or cosmetic products only conceal the problem temporarily. Medicated nail polishes exist, but these are designed to treat the fungus, not just cover it up.
How to cover up nail fungus?
If you absolutely need to cover up nail fungus for a special occasion, use a breathable nail polish and remove it as soon as possible. Make sure your nails are completely dry before applying the polish. Remember, this is a temporary fix, and you should prioritize treating the infection.
Does hydrogen peroxide stop nail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes suggested as a home remedy for nail fungus due to its antiseptic properties. While it might help kill some surface bacteria, it’s unlikely to completely eradicate a nail fungus infection. Its effectiveness is limited, and professional medical treatment is usually necessary.
Should I throw out nail polish if I have toenail fungus?
It’s a good idea to throw out any nail polish you’ve used on infected nails to prevent reinfection or spreading the fungus to other nails. Fungus can survive in nail polish bottles and applicators, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. Consider buying new polish once the infection is fully treated.
To Conclude
If you have nail fungus, you have several treatment options. You can try topical treatments that you apply directly to your nails. You can also take oral medications. Some doctors and clinics offer laser treatments. In very severe cases, you may need to have the nail removed surgically.
The best way to treat nail fungus is to talk with a healthcare professional. Your doctor can assess how bad the infection is, consider your age and health history, and talk with you about any side effects you might experience from the treatment. Together, you can decide on a treatment that’s right for you.
Be patient, and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Toenails and fingernails grow slowly, so it can take months or even a year to completely get rid of the fungus.
Talk with your doctor about the available treatments and any other medications you’re taking. This information is for educational purposes only, and it’s not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider.