Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can impact the health and appearance of your nails. It can cause discoloration, thickening, and even crumbling of the nails, which can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
For a mild case of nail fungus, you may want to try an antifungal nail polish. These over-the-counter topical treatments are easy to find and easy to use.
Orly is a brand that offers several products related to nail fungus treatment and maintaining healthy nails.
This article will cover how antifungal nail polish works, how to use it, and some products from Orly that you may want to consider.
Nail fungus and antifungal treatments
What is nail fungus (onychomycosis)?
Nail fungus is caused by organisms such as dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and can enter the nail through small cracks or cuts.
Poor hygiene, nail trauma, and weakened immune systems can contribute to fungal infections.
Nail fungus can cause:
- discoloration
- thickening
- brittleness
- separation of the nail from the nail bed
How antifungal nail polish works
Antifungal nail polishes contain active ingredients like tolnaftate, tea tree oil, amorolfine, or ciclopirox, which inhibit fungal growth. The polish is applied to the affected nail, and the antifungal agents penetrate the nail plate to reach the infection.
One advantage of treating nail fungus with a topical polish is how simple and readily available it is.
How to use antifungal nail polish
If your doctor has suggested that you use an antifungal nail polish, here are some tips for getting the most out of the product.
Before you start
It’s important to prep your nail properly before using an antifungal nail polish.
- Use a nail trimmer to cut away any loose or broken pieces of the affected nail. A clean nail file can help you smooth any rough edges.
- Be sure your nail is clean and dry before you start.
How to apply
Follow these steps:
- Apply a thin coat of the polish to the entire surface of the nail. If possible, try to get some of the polish under the nail, too.
- Allow the polish to dry fully.
- Reapply the polish as directed. Some products require daily application, while others may be applied a few times each week.
Before you reapply, it’s important to remove the old layer of polish. The easiest way to do this is with an alcohol swab or pad.
How long will it take?
Be patient! It can take several months to get rid of a nail infection. It’s important to use the product consistently and to follow the directions on the package.
It’s also important to know that topical treatments, such as nail polish, aren’t always effective for severe infections. If your infection doesn’t clear up, talk with your doctor about whether an oral medication, such as Jublia, might be a better choice.
Can I use regular nail polish with my antifungal treatment?
Health professionals don’t usually recommend wearing regular nail polish while you’re treating a nail infection. That’s because cosmetic nail polish can trap moisture in your nail and keep your antifungal medication from working its best.
If you choose to wear nail polish, the best practice is to apply the antifungal nail polish first, then add your color on top of that.
Orly Breathable and gel nail polishes
Orly Breathable Treatment + Color is a healthier alternative to standard nail polish. It’s formulated to allow air and moisture to reach the nail surface to promote healthy nail growth.
If you like the look of Orly Gel Nail Color, remember to give your nails a break between manicures, especially if you’re also using strong treatments to fight an infection.
Orly Products for Nail Care During and After Fungal Infections
If you’re dealing with nail fungus, you may also be looking for products that can help you care for your nails during and after treatment. Orly offers a few options that may be helpful.
Orly Fungus MD Serum
Orly Fungus MD is an antifungal treatment that helps target and eliminate nail fungus. It contains active ingredients that fight the infection and promote healthy nail growth.
Orly Breathable Treatment + Color
Orly Breathable Treatment + Color is a great choice for maintaining healthy nails. Its breathable formula allows air and moisture to reach the nail, promoting better nail health. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors so you can still enjoy having polished nails while caring for them.
Other Orly Nail Care Products
Orly also offers other nail care products that can support nail health, such as cuticle oils and strengtheners. These products, and treatments like IBX nail treatment, can help keep your nails moisturized and strong, especially after dealing with a fungal infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Definitely not! Cutting off your toenail yourself is risky and can lead to infection or further complications. Instead, see a doctor or podiatrist. They can properly diagnose the extent of the fungal infection and recommend the best treatment plan, which might involve prescription medications or professional debridement.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful because it contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have mild antifungal properties. While it might temporarily alleviate symptoms or slow the spread of the fungus, it’s generally not as effective as prescription antifungal treatments. Think of it as a supporting player, not the star of the show.
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet for getting rid of nail fungus overnight. It’s a slow process! The fastest and most effective way is to see a doctor who can prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications. Consistency is key, so follow their instructions carefully.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has some antiseptic properties, but it’s unlikely to completely eradicate toenail fungus. While it might help clean the nail and surrounding area, it doesn’t penetrate the nail deeply enough to kill the fungus. There are more effective treatments available.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally a good idea to wear clean, breathable cotton socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and prevent the fungus from spreading. Change your socks daily and wash them in hot water to kill any lingering spores. Also, letting your feet breathe by going sockless for periods during the day can be beneficial.
Closing Thoughts
Finding and treating nail fungus early is important, and antifungal nail polishes are easy to find and use. Good nail care is also essential. Using breathable nail polishes like Orly Breathable Treatment + Color can help keep your nails healthy.
If you have a bad case of nail fungus or it won’t go away, see a doctor. Nail health is a long-term project, so keep up with good habits and talk to a doctor if you have any concerns.