Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that can cause your toenails to become discolored, thick, and sometimes even painful. If you’ve ever dealt with it, you’ve probably searched high and low for a cure.
One question that often pops up is, “Can salt water cure toenail fungus?” While salt water has some properties that could be helpful, it’s not considered a proven or reliable treatment for toenail fungus.
So, let’s dive in and take a closer look at the potential benefits and limitations of using salt water for toenail fungus, and most importantly, explore some evidence-based treatments that actually work.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the toenail. It’s more common in toenails than in fingernails because your feet spend a lot of time in socks and shoes, a warm, damp environment where fungi thrive.
Most often, toenail infections are caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus. However, yeasts and molds can also cause onychomycosis.
Risk factors for developing toenail fungus
Some things can make you more likely to develop a toenail infection, such as:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Poor hygiene
- Trauma to the nail
- Wearing shoes that don’t allow your feet to breathe
- Athlete’s foot
The potential benefits of salt water
There are some reasons why people try salt water soaks for toenail fungus.
Antiseptic and antimicrobial properties
Salt water has antiseptic properties. Salt can draw moisture away from an area, and this action can potentially keep bacteria from growing.
Some people say that salt water also has antifungal properties, but there’s not a lot of scientific evidence for this. It’s more of a folk remedy.
Wound healing and skin health
Salt water can help a wound heal. It cleanses the wound and reduces inflammation.
Salt water may also soothe irritated skin and reduce itching.
Salt types and their properties
When people talk about salt water soaks, they may use different kinds of salt, such as table salt, sea salt, or Epsom salt. These salts have different mineral content, and that may change how well they work.
Epsom salt has a lot of magnesium. Magnesium can be good for your skin.
Limitations of salt water as a toenail fungus treatment
While some people swear by it, salt water is not a proven treatment for toenail fungus. There are several reasons why.
Lack of scientific evidence
There simply aren’t any reliable clinical trials that show salt water can cure toenail fungus. Salt water treatments are based on anecdotal evidence and old-fashioned home remedies rather than scientific studies.
Fungal resilience and nail structure
Fungal infections are notoriously hard to get rid of. Fungi are tough and can survive in many different environments. Plus, the toenail itself protects the fungus, making it hard for topical treatments like salt water to reach the infection.
Potential side effects
Soaking your foot in salt water for too long can dry out and irritate your skin. For some people, salt water can make skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis worse.
Comparison to established treatments
Prescription antifungal medications have much higher success rates than salt water treatments. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments are designed to target fungus, but they often struggle to penetrate the nail and reach the infection.
How to use salt water (if you choose to)
Some people choose to add salt water soaks to their toenail fungus treatment plan.
Preparing a salt water soak
You can prepare a salt water soak by using warm water and dissolving salt until the water is saturated. That means that you’ve added so much salt that no more will dissolve into the water.
Soak your foot for 15 to 20 minutes, two or three times a day.
Enhancing the soak
You can add other ingredients to your salt water soak, such as tea tree oil, vinegar, or other essential oils that may have antifungal properties, or even consider jojoba oil.
Be sure to thoroughly dry your feet and nails after the soak.
When to seek professional help
If you notice any signs of worsening infection, such as increased pain, inflammation, or spreading of the fungus, it’s time to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Really Works for Toenail Fungus
While home remedies like salt water soaks might help with the symptoms of toenail fungus, it’s important to know that they aren’t likely to cure the infection. Here are some treatments that are proven to work:
Topical Antifungal Medications
These are antifungal medications that you apply directly to the nail. Common types include amorolfine and ciclopirox. It’s important to use these consistently and for as long as your doctor tells you to.
Topical treatments don’t always work, especially if the infection is severe. That’s because they have a hard time getting through the nail to reach the fungus underneath.
Oral Antifungal Medications
These are antifungal pills that you take by mouth. Common types include terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole. Oral medications tend to work better than topical ones. However, they can have side effects, including liver problems, so your doctor will need to monitor your liver function.
You’ll typically need to take oral antifungals for several weeks or even months.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses concentrated light to target and destroy the fungus. It shows promise and has minimal side effects. The downside is that it can be expensive and may not be available everywhere.
Surgical Nail Removal
In severe cases, or when other treatments haven’t worked, your doctor may recommend removing the nail entirely. This is usually a last resort. There will be some discomfort during recovery, and there’s a chance the infection could come back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Completely eradicating toenail fungus can be tricky. Prescription oral antifungal medications, like terbinafine or itraconazole, often offer the best chance of permanent results. However, they come with potential side effects and require a doctor’s supervision. Topical treatments, while less potent, can also be effective for mild cases.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid picking at or cutting the infected nail, as this can spread the fungus. Don’t ignore the problem, hoping it will resolve on its own. Refrain from sharing nail clippers or files to prevent transmission. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive treatments without consulting a professional.
What is the strongest natural antifungal?
Tea tree oil is often touted as a potent natural antifungal. It contains compounds that may inhibit fungal growth. Other options include oregano oil, garlic, and apple cider vinegar, but their effectiveness varies, and scientific evidence is limited.
Does soaking in salt water help toenail fungus?
Salt water can help soften the nail and potentially reduce inflammation, creating a less hospitable environment for the fungus. It’s not a cure, but it can be a supportive measure alongside other treatments. The Epsom salts are thought to have added benefits.
Can salt water clear nail fungus?
Unfortunately, salt water alone is unlikely to completely clear a toenail fungus infection. While it may offer some relief and create a less favorable environment for fungal growth, it’s generally not powerful enough to eradicate the fungus entirely. Consider it a complementary therapy rather than a standalone solution.
Conclusion
While some people believe that salt water can help with toenail fungus, it’s not a proven cure. There’s not much scientific evidence to support that idea, though there are some possible benefits to using salt water as a foot soak.
If you have a toenail fungus, and want to hide it fast this summer, the most effective treatments are evidence-based treatments. These include prescription topical and oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, and surgical options in severe cases.
If you think you have a toenail fungus, it’s always best to see a doctor. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the right treatment for you. The right treatment will depend on the severity of the infection.
Beyond treating an existing infection, taking care of your feet and practicing good hygiene is always important. Addressing risk factors can prevent reinfection and keep your feet healthy.