
Pincer nails are a common condition, especially among pregnant and older people, caused by a transverse overcurvature of the nail. Treatment options include bracing, surgery, or medication. Bracing involves using steel or plastic devices that exert countertension on the nail, guiding it to grow flatter and wider. The application process for traditional nail braces can be painful and may lead to inflammation. However, modern bracing systems like Onyfix and B/S Brace offer painless alternatives that correct nail growth without surgery. These systems use composite materials and LED light to reshape the nail and ensure natural growth. The duration of wearing a brace depends on the severity of the curvature and the specific product used, typically ranging from a few weeks to a few months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment options | Bracing, surgery, or permanent removal of the nail |
| Bracing materials | Steel, plastic, hardened composite material |
| Bracing types | Onyfix, BS Brace, CurveCorrect |
| Onyfix application process duration | 20 minutes |
| Onyfix treatment duration | 2-3 months |
| Onyfix post-application care | Avoid water exposure for 24 hours, refrain from wearing tight footwear |
| BS Brace application process | Clean the nail with Clean-Ex, ensure the nail turns opaque or chalky, apply adhesive to the brace and activator to the nail |
| BS Brace application duration | 3 to 7 days after a pedicure |
| BS Brace treatment duration | 1 to 3 months |
| BS Brace post-application care | Check the fitting of the brace once a month, reduce tension by gently filing down the edges if the client feels more than a slight pull |
| CurveCorrect application process | Clean the nail with soap and water, cut the brace to the correct length, apply adhesive to one end of the brace, position the brace on the nail |
| CurveCorrect treatment duration | Weeks |
| CurveCorrect post-application care | Remove the brace if experiencing pain or bruising |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

The Onyfix nail correction system
Pincer nails are a transverse overcurvature of the nail, commonly caused by degenerative osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joints or by ill-fitting shoes. Treatment options for pincer nails usually include bracing, surgery, or permanent removal of the nail.
The Onyfix system is typically cured to the toenail for about 2-3 months. During this period, additional bands may be applied to the toenail to ensure the desired results are achieved. Once the desired results are achieved, the composite is removed, and the nail continues to grow naturally. The Onyfix bands will usually last at least 3 months or longer, and in most cases, it stays in place until it grows out with the nail.
The application process for Onyfix is simple and quick, taking about 10 minutes. Before application, the toenail is filed and smoothed to flatten it, and all nail folds and debris are cleared. The Onyfix composite is then modelled onto the nail and cured with the LED light. The foot healthcare practitioner will review the patient regularly and reapply the treatment as necessary.
Onyfix provides an alternative treatment option for patients who may not be suitable for ingrown toenail surgery due to needle phobia, pregnancy, breastfeeding, age, vascular disease, or other reasons. It is also suitable for adults, children, and diabetics.
Quick-Drying Color Street Nails: How Long Do They Take?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

The B/S Brace System
Pincer nails are a transverse overcurvature of the nail, commonly caused by degenerative osteoarthritis or ill-fitting shoes. Treatment options include bracing, surgery, or permanent removal of the nail.
The application process for the B/S Brace System is straightforward. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the client does not soak their nails or apply lotion before the application. The nail technician will then clean and etch the nail with a product like Clean-Ex and wipe it dry. Once the activator is applied to the nail, the technician will apply the adhesive to the brace and ensure it is dry before attaching the brace. The B/S Brace is best applied 3 to 7 days after any pedicure service, and no foot baths or lotions should be used before the service as they may affect adhesion.
When applied and sealed correctly, the B/S Brace should last one to three months. It is recommended to check the fitting of the brace once a month, as the tension lasts for four to ten weeks, depending on the curve of the nail. For extremely curved nails, the brace should be reapplied every four to six weeks. If the client feels more than a slight pull, the tension can be reduced by gently filing down the edges of the brace.
Silk Nail Wraps: How Long Do They Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

CurveCorrect toenail brace
Pincer nails are a transverse overcurvature of the nail, commonly caused by degenerative osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joints or by ill-fitting shoes. Treatment options for pincer nails usually include bracing, surgery, or permanent removal of the nail.
CurveCorrect offers an at-home ingrown toenail treatment that addresses the root cause of toenail pain by correcting the unhealthy shape of the nail. The CurveCorrect toenail brace is designed to correct curled toenails. The product is trusted by physicians, nail professionals, and over 250,000 pain-free users worldwide. The CurveCorrect toenail brace is made from a unique composite material that is fully transparent and adjustable by length to fit a wide range of nails. The brace is designed for the big toe of most adults 18 or older. The CurveCorrect toenail brace is available in a corrector kit that includes 10 toenail braces, a nail brace adhesive, a solvent, a nail file, and cotton swabs. The brace has mixed reviews, with some customers reporting that it stays on for weeks while others mention that it keeps breaking.
The application process of traditional nail bracing can be painful and cause inflammation. The Onyfix nail correction system is a painless alternative to traditional nail bracing. It uses a hardened composite material that is cured by an LED light and acts as a brace on the nail plate. The Onyfix system is cured to your toenail for about 2-3 months. During this period, additional bands can be applied to the toenail to ensure that the desired result is obtained. Before applying Onyfix, the toenail must be filed and smoothed to flatten the nail for application. The B/S Brace System is another non-surgical corrective procedure that eliminates pain and helps correct the curvature of the nail. The system was developed in Germany over 25 years ago as a safe and easy-to-apply solution for painful toenails.
The length of time that a brace must be worn for pincer nails may vary depending on the treatment option chosen and the severity of the condition. The CurveCorrect toenail brace can be worn for up to four months, according to a customer review. The Onyfix nail correction system is cured to the toenail for about 2-3 months. The B/S Brace System provides noticeable results in just a few days, but the brace may need to be reapplied every four to six weeks for extremely curved nails.
LED Nail Lamps: How Long Do They Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Toenail brace application process
Toenail bracing is a gentle and effective alternative to nail surgery for painful ingrown or curved toenails. Bracing can be used to treat pincer nails, which are a transverse overcurvature of the nail, commonly caused by degenerative osteoarthritis or ill-fitting shoes.
There are several toenail bracing systems available, including the CurveCorrect, Onyfix, and B/S Brace systems. The application process for each system may vary slightly, but here is a general overview of the toenail brace application process:
Step 1: Prepare the Toenail
Before applying the brace, the toenail should be prepared by filing and smoothing to flatten the nail and create a clean surface for the brace to adhere to. Any nail polish, shellac, or artificial nails should be removed, and the nail should be cleaned with a solvent and dried thoroughly.
Step 2: Apply Adhesive
Apply a small puddle of adhesive to one end of the toenail brace. The diameter of the adhesive puddle should be as wide as the brace and as deep as the thickness of the brace. Be careful not to let the adhesive touch any other part of your body, as it will bond immediately.
Step 3: Position the Brace
Position the first end of the brace (the end with adhesive) on the side of the toenail that is most affected. This end of the brace should lay flat against the toenail. The angle of the brace will vary depending on the curve of the nail.
Step 4: Bond the First End
Hold the brace motionless for 30 seconds to allow the adhesive to bond. Then, release and allow the adhesive to continue curing for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 5: Adjust the Length
Bend the second end of the toenail brace to the opposite side of the toenail to find its correct length. Ideally, it should reach all the way to the edge of the toenail.
Step 6: Bond the Second End
Apply adhesive to the second end of the brace and bond it to the nail. Ensure that the brace is positioned correctly and covers as much of the nail as possible, avoiding any sharply curved portions.
Step 7: Allow the Adhesive to Cure
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing the adhesive. For example, the Onyfix system uses an LED light to cure the adhesive, while the BraceNFix system uses a UV light.
Step 8: Maintenance and Follow-up
The brace should be checked for proper fitting and adjusted as needed. The Onyfix system recommends follow-up appointments every 6 weeks, with the brace typically remaining in place for 2-3 months. The B/S Brace system recommends checking the fitting after one month, with the brace lasting up to three months.
It is important to note that the application process may vary depending on the specific type of brace and the curvature of the nail. It is always best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the particular bracing system being used.
Funfus Nail Treatment: How Long to Recover?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Toenail brace maintenance
Toenail bracing is a gentle and effective alternative to nail surgery for painful ingrown or curved toenails. Bracing is a good option for those who may not be suited for surgery, such as those with needle phobia, diabetes, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Bracing can also treat pincer nails, which are a transverse overcurvature of the nail commonly caused by degenerative osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joints or by ill-fitting shoes.
There are various types of toenail braces available, such as the Onyfix Nail Correction System, the B/S Brace System, and the CurveCorrect Ingrown Toenail Corrector Kit. These systems use different materials and methods to correct the nail shape and relieve pain. Here are some general maintenance tips for toenail braces:
- Before applying a toenail brace, ensure your toenail is properly cleaned, etched, and dried. Remove all nail polish, shellac, and artificial nails. The nail may need to be filed down and flattened for the brace to adhere properly.
- Avoid applying lotion or soaking your feet before the bracing service, as this may impede adhesion to the nail.
- Follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen toenail brace system. For example, the Onyfix system uses a hardened composite material cured by an LED or UV light, while the B/S Brace System and CurveCorrect kit use adhesives to attach the brace to the nail.
- Check the fitting of the brace regularly, ideally once a month. The brace should be reapplied every four to six weeks for extreme nail curvature.
- If the brace becomes loose or falls off within the first week, incorrect application may have occurred. Reapply the brace and ensure proper fitting.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes, as they can cause discomfort and affect the brace.
- You can generally resume normal activities after applying a toenail brace, but it is recommended to avoid swimming and tight-fitting shoes for the first 24 hours.
- For systems that use adhesives, ensure that the adhesive is stored properly between uses. Keep it in a cool place, such as the fridge or freezer, and warm it to room temperature before use.
- Avoid contact between the adhesive and the activator, as this can cause the adhesive to become inactive. Always apply the activator to the nail and the adhesive to the brace.
- If you require additional care for your feet or nails, consult a podiatrist or nail technician who can advise on the best course of treatment in conjunction with the bracing.
With proper maintenance and care, toenail braces can provide long-term results and help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with ingrown, curved, or pincer nails.
Nail Painting: Quick Tips for Perfect At-Home Manicures
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The duration of wearing a nail brace depends on the severity of the curvature and the type of brace used. For example, the Onyfix nail correction system typically requires about 2-3 months for the brace to be cured to the toenail. During this period, additional bands can be applied to ensure the desired result. The B/S Brace System, on the other hand, may last from one to three months, with tension lasting 4-10 weeks.
It is important to maintain a dry environment for the treated toe for at least 24 hours after application to ensure proper adhesion. Swimming and wearing tight-fitting shoes should be avoided during this period. For the B/S Brace System, it is recommended to avoid foot baths, lotions, softeners, and cuticle removers before and after application as these may impede adhesion.
If the nail brace becomes loose or falls off within the first week, it may indicate incorrect application. It is recommended to check the fitting of the brace once a month. For the B/S Brace System, improper nail preparation, such as not properly cleaning and etching the nail, can cause the brace to come loose. Reactivating the adhesive by warming it to room temperature and ensuring it does not come into contact with the activator can help improve adhesion.






































