Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common infection that causes your toenails to become discolored and thick. It can be unsightly and even painful.
You may have heard about the “sock trick” for toenail fungus — a home remedy that involves vinegar. But does it work? This article will explore the sock trick and whether it’s an effective treatment for toenail fungus.
Understanding Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is caused by fungus, like dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds, that get into small cracks in your toenails.
Some things make you more likely to get toenail fungus, like:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
If you have toenail fungus, your toenails might:
- Thicken
- Change color
- Become brittle
- Change shape
Toenail fungus can also make your toes hurt.
The Vinegar Sock Soak: A Possible Remedy
You can soak your feet in a solution of vinegar and water to try to fight toenail fungus. Some people use diluted apple cider vinegar (ACV) for this. A “vinegar sock soak” involves wearing socks while you soak your feet.
How it Works: The Science Behind Vinegar
The main ingredient in vinegar, acetic acid, has antifungal properties. Research suggests that acetic acid can indeed be effective against some fungi (Sleven et al, Mycoses, May 2016).
Vinegar may work by creating an environment that’s too acidic for the fungus to thrive.
How to Try a Vinegar Sock Soak
Here’s how to perform a vinegar sock soak:
- Dilute vinegar with water. A good starting point is half vinegar and half water.
- Soak your feet in the solution for 10-15 minutes each evening.
- Wear cotton socks during the soak.
- After the soak, apply a topical antifungal medication, such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or tolnaftate.
Important considerations and precautions
If you want to try the sock-and-vinegar trick, it’s important to properly dilute the vinegar with water. Undiluted vinegar can irritate the skin.
Also, if you have a severe case of toenail fungus, talk to your doctor before trying home remedies. It’s important to get a diagnosis and treatment plan from a professional.
Keep in mind that it can take up to a year to completely get rid of toenail fungus (onychomycosis), so be patient!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I sleep with socks on if I have toenail fungus?
Generally, it’s best to avoid sleeping with socks on if you have toenail fungus. Your feet need to breathe, and socks can trap moisture, creating a favorable environment for fungal growth. If you do wear socks, opt for breathable cotton or moisture-wicking materials and change them frequently.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
No, you should not attempt to cut off your toenail yourself. This can lead to infection and further complications. A podiatrist can safely trim or remove part or all of the affected nail if necessary, but it’s a procedure best left to professionals.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid picking at or scratching the affected nail, as this can spread the infection, and ensure you follow safe care practices, such as with a toenail fungus pedicure. Don’t share nail clippers or files with others. Also, avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes that restrict airflow and create a damp environment. And, of course, don’t ignore it – seek treatment!
Do I need to throw away my socks if I have toenail fungus?
It’s not always necessary to throw away your socks, but it’s a good idea to wash them in hot water with bleach to kill any lingering fungus, considering how long toenail fungus can live on surfaces. You can also use an antifungal laundry detergent. Consider replacing older socks that might be harboring fungus, especially if they’re synthetic materials.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While not a proven cure, some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for managing toenail fungus. The ingredients, such as camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, have antifungal and antiseptic properties. The thick consistency also creates a barrier that may help prevent the spread of the fungus. However, it’s not a substitute for prescription treatments.
In Closing
While a vinegar sock soak might help ease your toenail fungus symptoms, it shouldn’t replace medical treatment, or other quick fixes like a 3 minute shower hack for toenail fungus. If you think you have toenail fungus, it’s important to talk with your doctor to get a diagnosis and find out what treatments will work best for you.