Caleb Foster
Nail fungus is a common condition that can affect both toenails and fingernails, causing the nail to become thick, discoloured, and brittle. While it is not a serious infection, it can be persistent and take a long time to treat, with prescription medications typically taking 2 to 3 months for fingernails and up to 12 weeks for toenails. Even with treatment, nail fungus can return, and it may take up to 18 months for a new, healthy nail to grow out completely. Home remedies like vinegar soaks, baking soda, and tea tree oil may be used alongside prescription medications for faster results.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken for a fingernail to grow out | 4 to 6 months |
| Time taken for a toenail to grow out | 12 to 18 months |
| Time taken for antifungal pills to work | 12 weeks |
| Time taken for antifungal pills to completely clear the fungus | 10 months or longer |
| Time taken for laser treatments to work | Varies, but may take up to a year |
| Time taken for topical treatments with nail polish to work | Up to a year |
| Time taken for antifungal tablets to work | Several weeks to 6 months or more |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Prescription medication
Topical prescription medications include antifungal nail polishes and creams. These treatments may take up to a year to work and are more suitable for mild cases of toenail fungus. Prescription nail polishes contain antifungal ingredients such as amorolfine or ciclopirox. The nail polish is typically applied daily or weekly, and the old layer must be removed with an alcohol swab before a new application.
Prescription antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and terbinafine (Lamisil), are also available. These creams are rubbed into the nail after trimming and soaking the area. Topical treatments are generally recommended for children due to their thinner and faster-growing nails.
Oral prescription medications come in the form of antifungal pills or tablets. Examples include itraconazole (Sporanox) and terbinafine (Lamisil), which help new, healthy nails to grow. These medications are typically taken for several weeks to months and are more effective than topical treatments. However, they may cause side effects and are not suitable for people with liver disease or heart problems.
Combination therapy, which involves taking antifungal pills and applying topical medication, can be more effective than using either treatment alone. It is important to follow the prescribed treatment regimen consistently to achieve the best results.
French Nails: How Long Do They Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Home remedies
While home remedies for nail fungus abound, it is important to note that there is little evidence that they are effective in treating the infection. In fact, there is currently no evidence that any home remedy can fully clear up a fungal nail infection. Medical treatments are the only known methods to effectively treat nail fungus. However, home remedies may help to relieve symptoms and can be used alongside medical treatments. Here are some home remedies that may be worth trying:
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment designed to suppress coughing. Its active ingredients, camphor and eucalyptus oil, may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a "positive clinical effect" in treating toenail fungus. To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves of the tea tree, a plant native to Australia. It has been traditionally used as an antiseptic and has been researched for use in treating skin conditions like acne. In one study, tea tree oil was applied to the affected nail twice a day for six months, and the cure rate for toenail fungus was found to be comparable to using the cream clotrimazole. However, another study that ran for only eight weeks showed no improvement, suggesting that longer treatment durations may be necessary.
Listerine Mouthwash
Listerine mouthwash contains menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. To use, soak the affected foot in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes daily. Alternatively, follow recipes for using apple cider vinegar, substituting the mouthwash for the vinegar.
Oregano Oil
Apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily using a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together, but caution is advised as both products are potent and may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Snakeroot Extract
Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal derived from plants in the sunflower family. A 2008 study showed that snakeroot extract was effective against toenail fungus, comparable to the antifungal medication ciclopirox.
It is important to remember that while home remedies may provide temporary relief, they do not replace medical treatment. If you suspect you have a nail fungus infection, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Ultimate Nail Glue: Beauty Secrets' Longevity Secrets
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Oral antifungal medicines
Oral antifungals are typically prescribed when multiple nails are infected, or the infection has spread across a large area of the nail. They are also often necessary when the infection starts at the base of the nail. In severe cases of nail fungus, oral tablets can be combined with topical treatments, such as nail polish or cream, to enhance effectiveness.
Some examples of oral antifungal medicines include itraconazole (Sporanox) and terbinafine (Lamisil). These drugs work to help a new, healthy nail grow in to replace the infected nail. However, these medications are not usually given to individuals with liver disease or heart problems, as they may cause side effects such as an upset stomach, dizziness, severe skin problems, and jaundice. Moreover, oral antifungals can interact with other medications, such as antidepressants and beta-blockers. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist before starting oral antifungal treatment.
During oral antifungal treatment, it is recommended to have blood tests performed regularly to monitor for any problems. Additionally, liver function tests may be necessary, as oral treatments can affect the liver.
When Will Nail Hurt Disappear?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Laser treatments
Laser therapy is a quick, safe, and effective way to treat toenail fungus. It is a relatively newer treatment option that uses concentrated light to kill the nail fungus and prevent its growth. The treatment is pain-free and easy, requiring about 12 minutes per foot. It is also a good option for those who cannot tolerate the side effects of oral antifungals or are on medications that may interact with oral antifungals.
The exact mechanism of how laser treatment removes nail fungus is not yet clear. However, it is believed that the light penetrates the nail and is absorbed by the fungus, causing damage or death to the fungus cells. The laser is set at a specific wavelength that is only absorbed by the fungus, leaving the surrounding skin and tissue unharmed. This principle is called selective photothermolysis, which involves the precise targeting of the fungal areas with enough heat to disrupt growth while avoiding damage to other tissues. The laser treatment aims to heat the nail bed to temperatures between 40°C and 60°C, which is sufficient to stop fungal growth.
There are several types of laser treatments available, and the cost can range from $200 to $700 per session. The number of sessions required may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of laser used. The CO2 laser and the 1064-nm Nd: YAG laser have shown promising results in clinical trials, with high cure rates and good safety profiles. In one study, patients received three sessions of CO2 laser treatment at four-week intervals, and 50% of them achieved a "complete cure", defined as negative fungal culture and total visible clearance of infection. Another study used an 870/930-nm laser on patients with onychomycosis, and 65% of the treated toenails showed at least 3 mm of clear linear nail growth at 180 days.
While laser therapy has been proven effective in clinical trials and cleared by the FDA, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully assess its effectiveness and long-term results. As with all treatments for nail fungus, it may take months to see the full results as you wait for the new, fungus-free nail to grow in.
Stick-on Nails: How Long Do They Actually Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Nail removal
If you have a severe nail fungus infection or other treatments just don't work, your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail to get rid of the infection. There are two types of nail removal procedures: surgical and nonsurgical. In the case of the latter, a chemical is applied to the nail to remove it. Both procedures can be performed in a medical office or clinic and do not require a hospital stay.
Before opting for nail removal, it is recommended to try other treatments such as antifungal pills, creams, ointments, sprays, liquids, or lacquers. These treatments can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected nail. It is important to follow the directions carefully and treat the nail for at least six months or more to increase the chances of clearing the infection.
If you are considering nail removal, it is important to consult with a dermatologist or podiatrist to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. They can advise you on the best course of treatment based on the severity of your infection and your individual needs.
To prevent nail fungus from returning after treatment, it is crucial to practise good hygiene and disinfect your bathroom and nail care tools regularly. Keeping your hands and feet clean and dry, wearing shoes in public places, and changing your socks when they get sweaty can also help prevent reinfection.
When Did Furniture Makers Stop Using Square Nails?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Fingernail fungus can take anywhere from four to six months to clear, while toenail fungus can take 12 to 18 months.
Treatment options for nail fungus include over-the-counter or prescription antifungal nail polishes, creams, gels, and ointments. For more severe cases, antifungal pills or tablets may be prescribed by a doctor. Laser treatments are also an emerging treatment option.
Nail fungus typically causes the nail to become thick, discoloured, and brittle. The nail may also change shape and become easy to break or crumble.
