Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can cause nails to become discolored, thick, and brittle. Seeing those changes in your nails can be alarming and, understandably, you’d want to find a solution.
Vicks VapoRub, a familiar over-the-counter ointment often used to relieve coughs and congestion, is a product that some people claim is effective for treating nail fungus. You may have even seen some vicks vaporub nail fungus photos online that seem promising.
But does Vicks VapoRub really work for nail fungus? This article explores the claims surrounding Vicks VapoRub as a potential treatment, analyzes the available evidence, and offers guidance on whether it’s a suitable option for you.
Understanding nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Nail fungus is a common condition. It’s not usually serious, but it can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
What causes nail fungus?
Most nail fungus infections come from dermatophytes, molds, or yeasts. One common culprit is called Trichophyton rubrum.
Some things that increase your risk of getting nail fungus include:
- age
- diabetes
- a weakened immune system
- poor hygiene
- nail injuries
- wearing closed-toe shoes
Symptoms and diagnosis
When you have nail fungus, your nails may exhibit various symptoms; you might even wonder, what do black dots really mean?
- thicken
- become discolored (yellowish-brown)
- become brittle
- change shape
- separate from the nail bed
Usually, a doctor can diagnose nail fungus by looking at your nails. Sometimes, they may take a clipping of your nail to test in a lab.
Vicks VapoRub: Ingredients and mechanism of action
Key ingredients in Vicks VapoRub
The active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub are camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Inactive ingredients help with texture and application to the skin.
How it might work (theory)
Some people believe that Vicks may have antifungal properties because of its ingredients thymol, eucalyptol, and menthol.
Also, the occlusive nature of Vicks might help by trapping the active ingredients against the nail.
However, it’s important to remember that these ideas are theories. While some studies have shown Vicks VapoRub may help with nail fungus, more research is needed.
Does Vicks VapoRub work for nail fungus? Examining the evidence
If you’re dealing with nail fungus, you may have heard that Vicks VapoRub can help. Is there any science to back that up?
Limited scientific studies and anecdotal evidence
There haven’t been many big, strong scientific studies that look specifically at Vicks VapoRub and nail fungus. That means we need more research to know for sure.
You can find lots of people who say Vicks VapoRub worked for them. That kind of “word-of-mouth” evidence is called anecdotal evidence. While it can be interesting, it’s not the same as scientific proof.
Potential antifungal properties of individual ingredients
Vicks VapoRub has ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Some studies have looked at whether these ingredients can fight fungus.
Many of these studies are in vitro, meaning they were done in a lab and not on real people. So, it’s hard to know if they’d work the same way in real life. Some studies have found that these ingredients can kill certain types of fungus that cause nail infections, but often at higher concentrations than what’s found in Vicks VapoRub.
Published studies on Vicks VapoRub and nail fungus
There are a few small studies out there that have looked at Vicks VapoRub and nail fungus. These studies often have limitations, like small sample sizes.
I always recommend people talk with their doctor about any health concerns. If you’re struggling with nail fungus, a nail fungus doctor can help you find a treatment that’s right for you.
How to Use Vicks VapoRub for Nail Fungus (If Attempting)
Some people have found that Vicks VapoRub seems to help with nail fungus, but there’s not much research to back this up. If you want to try it, here’s what to do:
Application Guidelines
- Make sure your nail is clean. Trim away any loose bits and file it down if it’s thick.
- Put a thin layer of Vicks VapoRub on the nail that’s affected.
- Do this once or twice a day for several months. Nail fungus is stubborn.
Important Considerations and Expectations
You have to be patient and stick with it. Treating nail fungus takes time, and you might not see results right away. Also, Vicks VapoRub might not work for everyone. If you have a severe infection, you might need prescription medication from a doctor.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
If your symptoms get worse or don’t get better after a few weeks, see a doctor or podiatrist. You might need a professional diagnosis and other treatment options. If you have health conditions like diabetes, you should talk to a doctor before trying any home remedies.
Alternative and conventional treatments for nail fungus
If you’re wondering about other things you can do, here’s a look at some common treatments for nail fungus.
Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications
At your local drugstore, you can find antifungal nail polishes and creams that may help with your nail fungus. Common ingredients in these products are tolnaftate and clotrimazole.
However, the Mayo Clinic says that OTC treatments may not be as effective as prescription treatments, especially if the fungal infection is severe.
Prescription antifungal medications
If your nail fungus doesn’t clear up with OTC treatments, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine and itraconazole. These medicines work by helping your body fight the fungus. It’s important to know that these medications can have side effects.
Doctors can also prescribe stronger topical medications, such as nail fungus ciclopirox nail lacquer and efinaconazole.
Other treatment options
There are other ways to treat nail fungus, too. Some doctors may use laser therapy to kill the fungus, and in severe cases, surgery can remove the infected nail.
No matter which treatment you choose, practicing good foot hygiene is important. That means:
- wearing shoes that let your feet breathe
- keeping your feet dry
- never sharing nail clippers or other personal care items
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Getting rid of nail fungus quickly is tricky. Over-the-counter treatments often take months to show results, and even prescription medications require patience. See a doctor for the fastest path, which might involve prescription oral or topical antifungals. Consistency is key, no matter the treatment.
What is the strongest antifungal over the counter?
Over-the-counter antifungals typically contain ingredients like tolnaftate or clotrimazole. While they can help, they’re generally less potent than prescription options. Look for products specifically labeled for nail fungus, and follow the instructions carefully. Remember, persistence is vital, even with the “strongest” OTC option.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be challenging. Prescription oral antifungals have a higher success rate, but even they don’t guarantee permanent results. Topical treatments, whether prescription or OTC, often take longer and have a lower success rate. Maintaining good foot hygiene and addressing underlying conditions can help prevent recurrence.
Is Vicks or Vaseline better for toenail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil, which some people find helpful in managing nail fungus symptoms. Vaseline, on the other hand, is primarily a moisturizer and won’t directly combat the fungus. While anecdotal evidence suggests Vicks may offer some relief, it’s not a proven cure. Neither should be considered a replacement for medical treatment.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Never attempt to cut off a toenail affected by fungus yourself. This can lead to infection and complications. A doctor might consider surgical removal in severe cases, but this is a last resort. Focus on consistent antifungal treatment and proper nail care, and consult a podiatrist for the best course of action.
In Summary
While some people swear by Vicks VapoRub for nail fungus, it’s important to remember that there’s not much scientific evidence that it works. Just because someone says it worked for them doesn’t mean it will work for you.
Vicks might give you some temporary relief from the symptoms of nail fungus, but it probably won’t cure the infection completely. For a real diagnosis and treatment plan, it’s always best to see a doctor. They can recommend treatments that have been proven to work and give you tips on how to keep the fungus from coming back.