Toe Nail Fungus Treatments

Onyhomycosis, better known as “toe nail fungus” is a very common and persistent bacterial problem that plagues nearly 35 million people, which is about 12% of Americans according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Toe nail fungus is a fungal and bacteria based infection in one or more of your nails. A nail fungus infection may simply begin as a small yellow or white spot underneath the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection spreads deeper into your nail, however, it may cause your nail to discolor, become ingrown, thicken unnaturally and develop crumbling, weak edges. All of these developments can be unsightly and potentially painful problems.

Recurrent fungal infections in your nails are quite common, especially if you continue to expose your hands or feet to warm, moist conditions without proper cleaning, clipping and care.

Nail Fungus and Bacteria Treatment Options

Most physicians will generally prescribe an anti-fungal medication which is taken orally between 6 to 12 weeks. You will notice the results of the medication about four months after you have completed taking the prescription. Although the medication is effective, there are many possible negative side effects, varying from topical skin rashes or hives to liver damage. In addition, if you have an underlying health condition or are taking a conflicting medication, you may not be a good candidate for these prescription treatments.

There are also topical lotion, cream and nail lacquer treatment options. However, these surface options can take up to 12 months to produce complete results. In most cases, the use of a topical treatment regimen is not completely successful in curing tough nail fungus infections and conditions.

For a more severe or painful nail infection due to fungus, your doctor may suggest a surgical removal of the infected nail. A new nail will usually grow in its place, though it will come in slowly and may take as long as a year to grow back completely, during which time the surface below the nail will be painful and raw. If multiple nails are infected, this surgical removal can be inconvenient and painful.

Our Nail Fungus Laser Treatment Options

At Amore Laser of Austin, we use an alternate treatment which is approved by the FDA. Our Q-Clear FDA approved laser offers our clients a virtually painless procedure with no down time of long recovery period. The process is a great alternative to long-term medications or long-term nail growth.

Our Q-Switched Q-Clear laser is safe for all skin types and uses 1064nm and 532nm wavelengths to complete the process. This safe and effective treatment normally takes about 10 minutes to complete. Depending on the severity of the infection, our laser can generally get rid of the fungus in one treatment. Our lasers penetrate the complete nail, eliminating the destructive fungus that caused the infection at its roots. The light destroys the infection and stimulates your nail to revitalize as it heals. Your results can be seen in as little as 2-4 months, depending on how fast your nail grows.

There is no down time after our laser treatment. You may return to your normal daily routine immediately following your treatments, including painting your nails and receiving manicure or pedicure treatments. View the video below for Toe Nail Fungus Removal to see how quick, painless and effective this treatment is.