Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection. If you have it, you might notice that your toenails are discolored or thickened. In some cases, toenail fungus can even cause pain.
Betadine is a brand name for povidone-iodine, a topical antiseptic. It’s used to kill germs and prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Some people wonder if Betadine, even decolorized povidone iodine, can also be used to treat fungal infections like toenail fungus.
This article explores how to use Betadine for toenail fungus, if it’s effective, and how to apply it properly. Keep in mind that while some studies have found povidone-iodine helpful, more research is needed to definitively prove that it’s a reliable treatment for toenail fungus.