Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that can affect your toenails or fingernails. These infections are caused by fungi, yeasts, and molds that thrive in warm, moist environments.
Nail fungus infections are very common. Some estimates suggest that up to 14% of the population is affected.
While nail fungus is not a life-threatening disease, it can be extremely uncomfortable and painful. It can also be embarrassing to live with nail fungus, and many people try to hide their feet because of it.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes, treatments, and prevention strategies for nail fungus, with a special focus on liquid-based treatments, including products such as super health nail fungus liquid.
What causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. Several factors cause nail fungus.
Common causes
- Dermatophytes are the most common type of fungi that can cause nail infections.
- Other fungi, including yeasts and molds, can also cause nail fungus.
Risk factors
Anyone can get nail fungus, but some people have a higher risk.
- Age Older adults are more likely to get nail fungus.
- Poor foot hygiene If you don’t keep your feet clean and dry, you are more likely to get a fungal infection.
- Trauma Nail injuries can create an opening for fungi to enter.
- Underlying conditions Diabetes, weakened immune systems, and circulatory problems increase your risk.
- Environment Warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes, are perfect for fungal growth.
How nail fungus spreads
- Nail fungus can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or people.
- Sharing nail clippers, towels, or shoes can also spread the infection.
Why is toenail fungus so difficult to treat?
Toenail fungus can be a real pain to get rid of — and here’s why: For some potential treatments, read about Lamisil and toenail fungus.
- Nail structure: Toenails are thick and hard, which makes it difficult for any topical treatment to soak in. As Dr. Abigail Waldman explains, “Medications don’t penetrate the nail tissue very well.”
- Slow growth: Toenails grow slowly, so you won’t see results overnight.
- Persistence: Even after treatment, fungal spores can hang around and cause the infection to come back. Dr. Waldman warns that “the fungal infection may still be lurking under your nails.”
- Importance of complete cure: It’s important to completely get rid of the fungus and not just relieve the symptoms. If you don’t, it will probably come back.
Understanding what counts as a cure
When you’re treating nail fungus, it’s important to understand the difference between a clinical cure and a mycological cure.
- Clinical cure: This means your nail looks better. The discoloration and thickening have gone away.
- Mycological cure: This means there’s no fungus left.
A clinical cure is great, but if you don’t achieve a mycological cure, the fungus can come back. That’s why in clinical trials, researchers often recheck toenail clippings to be absolutely sure there are no fungal spores left behind.
Super Health Nail Fungus Liquid Treatments: What You Need to Know
If you think you have nail fungus, you’re probably wondering if those liquid treatments really work. Here’s a look at your options, from over-the-counter (OTC) products to prescription solutions.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Liquid Treatments
When browsing the pharmacy shelves, here’s what to look for:
- Active Ingredients: Tolnaftate, clotrimazole, and miconazole are common antifungal ingredients.
- Application: Follow the directions, but generally, you’ll apply the liquid liberally to the affected nail and the skin around it.
- Examples: You might see brands like Equate Maximum Strength Antifungal Liquid Tolnaftate or Fungi-Nail Maximum Strength AntiFungal Liquid.
While OTC products can bring some relief, they aren’t always a slam dunk. About 60% of people see some improvement after using them for a few months.
Prescription Topical Liquid Treatments
If the OTC stuff isn’t cutting it, your doctor might prescribe something stronger:
- Active Ingredients: Amorolfine, efinaconazole, tavaborole, and ciclopirox are prescription-strength antifungals that come in liquid form.
- Application: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. You’ll likely need to apply the liquid daily for several months.
- Examples: These often come as nail lacquers (like nail polish) containing amorolfine or ciclopirox.
Prescription treatments tend to have better results, with clinical cure rates ranging from 35% to 60%.
How Liquid Treatments Work
Here’s the basic idea:
- Penetration: The liquids are designed to soak through the nail to reach the fungus underneath.
- Antifungal Action: The active ingredients stop the fungus from growing and eventually kill it off.
- Adherence: Sticking to the treatment plan is key. If you skip days or don’t apply it properly, it won’t work as well.
Boosting the Effectiveness of Liquid Treatments
Want to give your treatment an extra edge? Try these tips:
- Nail Filing: File down thick nails to help the liquid penetrate better.
- Soaking: Soak your feet in warm water before applying the liquid to soften the nails.
- Consistency: Apply the liquid every day, as directed, for as long as your doctor recommends.
What else can you do for nail fungus?
If “super health nail fungus liquid” isn’t doing the trick, here are some other options your doctor might recommend.
Prescription oral medications
Oral medications, such as fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine, are usually more effective than topical treatments, but they come with the risk of side effects. You can learn more about one common option in this article about Lamisil for fingernail fungus.
- Clinical cure rates are around 80 percent.
- You’ll need to see your doctor regularly to have your liver function checked.
Laser therapy
With laser therapy, doctors use focused light energy to kill the fungus. Laser therapy is not widely available and can be expensive.
- Cure rates vary from 60 percent to 75 percent.
Prevention Strategies for Nail Fungus
Once you’ve finally gotten rid of that nasty nail fungus, you’ll want to do everything you can to keep it from coming back. Here are some tips:
- Keep feet clean and dry. Wash your feet every day with soap and water, and make sure you dry them well, especially between your toes.
- Wear breathable shoes. Shoes that trap moisture are a breeding ground for fungus.
- Change socks regularly. Change your socks at least once a day, but more often if they get damp.
- Disinfect nail tools. Always clean and disinfect your nail clippers and other tools after using them.
- Avoid sharing. Don’t share nail clippers, towels, or shoes with other people.
- Use antifungal powders or sprays. These can help prevent fungal growth in your shoes.
- Try vinegar soaks. Dr. Abigail Waldman recommends soaking your feet in diluted vinegar once or twice a week after you finish treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one product for nail fungus?
There isn’t a single “number one” product universally recommended for nail fungus. The effectiveness of a treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors. Options range from over-the-counter antifungals to prescription medications, and it’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for personalized advice.
What is the sock trick for toenail fungus?
The “sock trick” generally refers to wearing clean, breathable socks (like cotton or wool) and changing them frequently, especially if your feet get sweaty. This helps create a drier environment, which can inhibit fungal growth. It’s a good hygiene practice but not a standalone cure for toenail fungus.
What is the prescription liquid for nail fungus?
Several prescription liquid medications are available for treating nail fungus, including ciclopirox (Penlac) and efinaconazole (Jublia). These are topical antifungals applied directly to the nail. A doctor can determine if a prescription liquid is the right option for you based on your specific situation.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
There’s no single cup of liquid that will magically “destroy” nail fungus. Some home remedies, like soaking your feet in diluted vinegar or tea tree oil, might help inhibit fungal growth, but they are unlikely to eradicate a well-established infection. Always consult with a healthcare professional for effective treatment options.
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no instant fix for nail fungus. Treatment typically takes weeks or months, depending on the severity and the chosen method. The quickest route involves seeking professional medical advice, receiving an accurate diagnosis, and adhering to a prescribed treatment plan, which may include topical or oral antifungal medications.
Putting It All Together
Nail fungus is stubborn, and it can take consistent treatment and preventative care to get rid of it.
Liquid treatments (both over-the-counter and prescription) are a convenient way to treat nail fungus. While it can be hard to get rid of nail fungus completely, understanding your treatment options and taking preventative measures can help.
If you have a stubborn or severe infection, it’s always best to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional.