Nail fungus is not just an aesthetic issue; it is a real infection that affects nearly one in ten people. Whether it's the hands that are visible at first glance or the feet hidden in shoes, no nail is immune to these pesky fungi. But rest assured, there is no inevitability when it comes to nail health! Discover all the keys to understanding, treating, and preventing nail fungus.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection of the nail caused by microorganisms such as fungi, yeasts, or molds. Two types of fungi are responsible: dermatophytes (microscopic parasitic fungi) and Candida (often Candida albicans).
Dermatophytes are present in 90% of cases on yellow toenails. On the other hand, nail fungus on the hands is caused by Candida in 75% of cases. It usually starts by infecting the side or tip of the nail and then spreads towards the nail matrix, more commonly on toenails. This is known as subungual distal-lateral onychomycosis, the most widespread form.
Also, a yellow nail does not necessarily mean nail fungus. Yellow nails can also be the result of certain lifestyle habits, such as excessive use of fake nails, smoking, or using chemical products without gloves.
How Does Nail Fungus Develop?
Nail fungus typically begins by infecting the side or tip of the nail. This is called subungual distal-lateral onychomycosis, the most common form. Over time, if left untreated, the infection can spread to the nail matrix, making the infection harder to treat and causing more severe damage.
The big toe is often the most affected by nail fungus, likely due to its larger size and position, which makes it more prone to trauma and moisture.
How Can You Tell if It's Nail Fungus?
Recognizing nail fungus is the first crucial step in receiving appropriate treatment. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for:
- Yellow toenail
- Damaged nails, brittle nails, ridged nails
- Nail that starts to detach
- Brownish nail
- Thickened nail
- Yellowish and moist dead skin under the nail
- White spots on the surface of the nail
- Visible yellow line on the nail
- Thick, dry, or sensitive nail bed (the skin under the nail)
- The big toe is often the most affected
- Inflamed, red, and sensitive nail bed and skin
- Moldy appearance
- Unpleasant odor
Does Nail Fungus Hurt?
Nail fungus can be painful if left untreated. The nail may gradually detach, and in addition to being unsightly, it can become painful. This is especially true for toenail fungus. The friction from shoes exacerbates the deterioration of the infected nail and causes redness, like a burn, around the edges of the infected nail.
How Do You Catch Nail Fungus?
Several factors can contribute to the development of nail fungus:
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Weakened nails: The most common cause. Nails that have previously suffered trauma are more likely to develop fungal infections. A traumatic nail is one that has been subjected to a blow or repeated microtraumas. Weakened nails, subjected to mechanical stress in shoes, may detach, allowing germs that thrive in warm, humid environments to settle under the nail.
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Athlete’s foot: Onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes typically leads to foot fungal infections. It is contracted from contaminated public surfaces where people with dermatophyte fungi have walked. Common places include public showers, pools, saunas, gym lockers, etc. Untreated athlete's foot, often found between the toes, can spread to the nails and cause nail fungus.
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Excessive contact with water: Yeasts thrive in moist environments and can proliferate under the nails of individuals who come into regular contact with water. This often occurs on hand nails.
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Molds: Soil contaminated by molds can lead to nail fungus. This often affects the nail's surface, causing white spots that can be easily cleaned by a podiatrist with a file or turbine. It’s the easiest form to treat as the fungus usually stays on the surface, provided it is treated quickly. This fungus is particularly common under gel nails.
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Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, HIV, vascular issues, psoriasis, immunosuppressive treatments, and corticosteroids significantly increase the risk of developing and spreading nail fungus.
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Poorly fitted closed shoes: Shoes that are too tight, narrow, short, high-heeled, or not flexible compress the toes and nails, making them more likely to detach and create a fertile environment for fungal growth.
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Clawed toes, overlapping toes, or raised toes (extensus): These conditions also weaken nails due to repeated friction and microtraumas.
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Trauma and bruising under the nails caused by activities such as tennis, trail running, hiking, skiing, or wearing poorly fitting shoes can also weaken the nail, making it susceptible to onychomycosis.
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Improperly ventilated safety shoes, occupations that involve contact with water, and excessive sweating are also risk factors.
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Repeated application of fake nails: Over time, fake nails can damage and weaken natural nails, especially if applied continuously.
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Aging of the nails, unbalanced flora, vitamin deficiencies, and a diet too rich in sugar can also contribute to nail fungus.
Is Nail Fungus Contagious?
Nail fungus is highly contagious. It is essential to treat it as soon as possible to avoid spreading it to others. Disinfect nail files, scissors, and nail clippers, and provide each family member with their own towel. Regularly change the bath mat. After a shower, disinfect the shower tray. These measures help reduce the spread of the fungus to other members of the household.
How to Quickly Treat Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus may seem like a challenging problem, but with the right tools and a methodical approach, it's entirely possible to get rid of this persistent infection and enjoy healthy nails once again.
Topical Antifungal Solutions
Topical antifungal treatments are often the first line of defense against nail fungus.
Poderm® has developed effective solutions with concentrated ingredients for quick and effective treatment of nail fungus. The Poderm® Nail Fungus Serum is the number one solution for treating nail fungus. The product works mechanically by forming a protective lipid film that eliminates the fungus and promotes natural nail regeneration.
This can be complemented by Poderm® Booster for severe or difficult-to-treat cases. The Booster accelerates the treatment of nail fungus.
The toe protector is a shield that both protects and prevents the degradation and detachment of nails damaged by fungus or trauma.
Poderm® also offers the Intensive Night Treatment, which contains a Fungal Nail Serum and a gel cap enriched with Tea Tree and Aloe Vera. This overnight treatment promotes faster healing of the infection, strengthens the repair of the infected nail, and prevents contagion.
We recommend our ready-to-use treatments, sold individually or in packs, depending on your needs.
The food supplement for nails is designed to complement your nail care routine and support your overall health.
Home Remedies for Nail Fungus: Do They Work?
Grandmother's remedies for treating nail fungus, such as baking soda, iodine, lemon, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or seawater, have not been medically proven to be effective. Some of these can even be dangerous, such as the myth that bleach can treat fungus, which can cause severe burns.
If in doubt, consult a doctor, dermatologist, or podiatrist.
Which Essential Oils to Treat Nail Fungus?
Essential oils, known for their natural antifungal properties, can be valuable allies in treating nail fungus. The most effective include:
- Tea Tree oil
- Lavender oil
- Oregano oil
- Lemongrass oil
Always dilute essential oils in a neutral vegetable oil (such as sweet almond oil) before applying. A mixture of 2-3 drops of essential oil to 10 drops of vegetable oil is usually recommended. Apply this mixture to the affected nail 1-2 times a day, massaging gently. Consistency is key: a regular treatment for several weeks is necessary to see results.
Treatment of Nail Fungus by a Podiatrist
Some podiatrists perform mechanical treatment, which involves cleaning the affected part of the nail and removing the fungal infection. The detached part of the nail is trimmed to access the fungi underneath and remove it with a spatula, gouge, or turbine. The nail is then cleaned to create the healthiest base possible. This treatment is painless, as the skin under the detached nail has already healed.
For those who wish, onychoplasty (nail reconstruction) can be performed by the podiatrist to restore a more aesthetically pleasing appearance to the nail.
For fungus caused by molds, simply file the nail surface to remove white spots and apply an antifungal treatment.
Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
Laser treatment for nail fungus involves destroying the fungi responsible for the infection located under the nails. However, nail thickening is not always caused by fungus, and in such cases, laser treatment will not work. A podiatrist's diagnosis is essential.
Is laser treatment painful?
Laser treatment for onychomycosis can be painful. A strong heat sensation may be felt during the session, and no anesthesia is applied. This solution is relatively quick, lasting about 30 minutes for all infected nails
How Many Sessions Are Needed to Achieve Healthy Nails?
Generally, you should expect 3 sessions spaced 1 to 2 months apart for the treatment to start showing results. The duration of the treatment may vary depending on the progression of the fungal infection.
The price varies depending on the clinic, but you can expect to pay around £170 per session, which is not covered by the NHS (in the UK).
Preparation Before a Laser Session
Before a laser session, it is essential to carry out a mycological sample at a specialised laboratory to confirm the diagnosis. The nail sample should be taken 3 months after stopping any treatment. It must be prepared by a podiatrist, who will reduce its thickness to one millimetre before treatment. The heat of the laser will then destroy the microscopic fungi responsible for the infection.
Complementing the Laser Treatment with a Local Therapy
It is necessary to use a local treatment in addition to the laser treatment to help the nail revitalise and regrow healthily. The Poderm Nail Fungus Serum is perfectly suited to complement the laser action. This natural alternative treatment, based on antifungal active ingredients, helps maintain nail health and contributes to the balance of the nail’s flora.
Nail Fungus Treatment: How Long Does It Take?
Treating nail fungus is a process that requires time and patience:
- For toenail fungus, the average treatment duration is about 6 months.
- For fingernail fungus, treatment usually takes around 4 months.
These durations may vary based on several factors:
- Severity of the infection: A fungal infection detected and treated early will heal faster than an advanced one.
- Location: Toenails, particularly the big toe, generally take longer to treat than fingernails.
- Overall health: People with a weakened immune system or poor circulation may require longer treatment.
- Type of treatment chosen: Some treatments, such as oral medications, may act faster than topical treatments, but they are not suitable for all cases.
- Consistency of the treatment: It is crucial to follow the treatment regularly and consistently to achieve the best results.
Good to Know: Even after the visible symptoms disappear, it is advisable to continue the treatment for a few extra weeks to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and prevent recurrences.
Can Nail Fungus Go Away on Its Own?
It’s natural to wonder if nail fungus can heal on its own, without intervention. Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. Nail fungal infections are persistent and almost always require active treatment to be eliminated.
Why Doesn’t Nail Fungus Disappear on Its Own?
The fungi responsible for nail infections are tenacious organisms that thrive in the warm, humid environment beneath the nail. Without treatment, they continue to proliferate.
Nails, especially toenails, grow very slowly. It takes about 12 to 18 months for a toenail to completely renew itself. During this time, the infection has plenty of opportunity to spread.
The nail acts as a barrier, protecting the fungi and making them difficult to eliminate naturally by the immune system.
Without treatment, a nail fungus tends to worsen over time, potentially affecting other nails or causing complications.
Nail Fungal Infections: What Hygiene Practices Should Be Followed?
The podiatrist's advice for preventing nail fungal infections is based on three key principles: hygiene, footwear, and regular podiatrist visits.
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Good foot and nail hygiene: Regularly trim nails, use a nail brush with soap to clean them, dry feet thoroughly after showering (especially between the toes), and disinfect nail clippers and files after each use.
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Footwear: Sport shoes should be reserved for physical activities and well-ventilated. They must not remain damp between sessions. Wear cotton or bamboo fibre socks in closed shoes to reduce sweat and friction. Use anti-perspirant powders for excessive sweating or talcum powder. Always wear sandals in public places like showers, pools, and locker rooms.
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Consult a podiatrist regularly: Regular visits help ensure healthy feet and start treatment early if needed.
How to Cut a Nail with Fungus?
To trim a nail infected with fungus, you should cut it regularly. This way, as the treated nail grows back healthily, you remove the damaged portion bit by bit.
How to File a Nail with Fungus?
Filing a diseased nail helps reduce its thickness, allowing the antifungal treatment to penetrate more effectively. It’s advised to file the damaged nail once a week.
How to Hide a Nail with Fungus?
Afficher une belle manicure/pédicure quand on a une mycose ? Oui, oui, c’est possible !
Can you still show off a beautiful manicure/pedicure when you have nail fungus? Yes, it’s possible!
Discover our Poderm Color Care polishes. This range includes Color Care Nail Polish and Illusion Polish, specifically designed to cover nails affected by fungus, including those of men. The range also includes a Base Coat, Top Coat, and a Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover. These polishes are breathable, allowing treatment to penetrate through the nail. They are to be used alongside the Nail Fungus Serum for perfectly healthy nails.
How to Know If Nail Fungus is Healed?
A nail fungus is healed when the nail regains a shiny, smooth appearance. There should be no more white or yellowish spots.
How Long Does It Take to Heal Nail Fungus?
It takes around 6 months to treat toenail fungus and 4 months for fingernail fungus. Treatment is lengthy, and it is essential to be consistent to achieve effective results and have healthy nails again.
Even in the case of mild nail fungus, treatment should be started to prevent the infection from worsening. Prevention and monitoring of your nails are crucial to keeping feet and nails healthy!
Why Do Fungal Infections Recur and How to Prevent Relapse?
Relapses of nail fungus are common and can be frustrating. They often occur for several reasons: incomplete initial treatment, reinfection due to an environment conducive to fungal growth, or increased individual sensitivity. To prevent these relapses, take a proactive approach:
- Always complete the prescribed treatment, even if symptoms have disappeared.
- Maintain excellent foot hygiene: wash your feet daily, dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Wear well-ventilated shoes and alternate them to allow complete drying.
- Wear natural fibre socks that absorb sweat.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public humid places like pools or locker rooms.
- Treat any new fungal infections of the skin promptly to prevent them from spreading to the nails.
- Consider using a preventive antifungal product like Poderm Fungal Nail Serum, particularly if you're prone to recurrences.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of unwanted fungal infections coming back.
Treat Yourself Now!
You’re now well-informed about nail fungus!
Remember, the key to successfully fighting nail fungus lies in three magic words: speed, consistency, and patience.
- Speed: The sooner you act, the sooner you’ll have healthy, beautiful nails.
- Consistency: Treatment requires regularity. Stick to your care routine!
- Patience: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither were your nails. Give them time to heal and regrow.
Don’t forget that you’re not alone. With Poderm’s complete treatment, you have all the tools you need to say goodbye to nail fungus.
And why not see this treatment as an opportunity? It’s the perfect time to pamper your feet and hands, give them the attention they deserve, and perhaps discover new care habits that will continue long after your healing.
