If your nails are moldy, but you don't want to waste time trying ineffective home remedies, opt for research-backed treatments. Although it takes time, with this type of treatment you can kill the fungus that causes the nail infection. In addition, you can also see a doctor and use oral or topical medications.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Trying Home Treatments
Step 1. Apply an antifungal essential oil to the nail surface once a day to get rid of fungus naturally
Mix 12 drops of a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil with 1-2 drops of an antifungal essential oil. Next, pour 1-2 drops of this oil mixture onto the surface of your nails and let it soak for 10 minutes. To help the oil penetrate the nail bed, you can scrub it with an old, soft toothbrush.
- If you have diabetes or have a weakened immune system, don't use home remedies and seek medical attention immediately if you find fungus on your nails.
- Do this treatment every day for at least 3 months to heal the nails.
Essential Oils with Antifungal Efficacy:
Aegle
Citronella
Geranium
Lemongrass
Orange
Palmarosa
Patchouli
Peppermint
Eucalyptus
Step 2. Brush the snake root extract onto the nail surface 2-3 times a week if you don't want to use drops
Purchase an antifungal medication that contains snake root extract, an effective antifungal ingredient. This remedy usually comes with a brush that can be used to spread the extract onto the surface of the nail. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week and allow it to dry.
- You have to use snake root extract for about 3 months before feeling the results.
- Purchase snake root extract at your local drugstore and convenience store, or online.
Step 3. Apply menthol ointment to the nail surface once a day as a long-term treatment
Research shows that applying menthol ointment to the nails can be both an inexpensive and effective treatment. Simply dip a clean cotton swab or fingertip into the menthol ointment and then apply it to the surface of the fungus-infected nail. Continue to do this treatment once a day until the yeast infection improves.
- If you want to apply menthol ointment before bed, consider wearing gloves or socks to keep the ointment from getting on your sheets.
- Remember, it may take up to a year for your nail to heal.
Step 4. Try an inexpensive treatment by applying a baking soda paste to your nails at least once a day
Although more research is needed, there is one study showing that baking soda can inhibit the growth of mold. To use it, put baking soda in a small bowl then add a little water to form a spreadable paste. Apply this paste to the nail surface and leave it on for 10 minutes. After that, rinse your nails thoroughly and dry them.
- You can try this treatment several times a day, but the results may not be noticeable after 1 year.
- While you may have heard that a mixture of baking soda and vinegar is claimed to cure toenail fungus, this treatment has not been shown to be effective.
Method 2 of 3: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Make an appointment with the nail fungus if it doesn't respond to home treatments
If you have been trying to use home remedies for at least 3 months for toenail fungus or 12 months for toenail fungus, but do not feel that your condition is improving, call your doctor. You should also make an appointment with your doctor if your nails appear discolored or thickened.
- If the nails become very thick, home treatments will be difficult to deal with the fungus. So you must confirm the diagnosis and undergo a medical treatment program.
- The doctor will take a sample of the nail culture and examine it under a microscope to make a diagnosis.
Step 2. Use an oral prescription medication for 8-12 weeks to treat the fungus
Although it must be used for several months, prescription medication is one of the most effective treatments for toenail fungus. Your doctor may prescribe terbinafine tablets to treat the fungus.
Consult the side effects of drugs such as rashes and liver problems. Tell your doctor if you are taking antibiotics, asthma medications, heart medications, or antidepressants because oral yeast medications can interact with these medications
Step 3. Apply antifungal nail polish daily for at least 2 months to heal the nails
If you're concerned about the side effects of oral antifungal medications, or if your yeast infection isn't severe, your doctor may prescribe a clear antifungal nail polish that you can use once a day. Trim your nails and wash them with water or alcohol before applying nail polish.
Some antifungal nail polishes only need to be used every 2 days or a few times a week. So, ask your doctor how to use it specifically
Step 4. Try a topical cream if less than half of your nails are infected with fungus
If your doctor suspects your nails might respond to a mild treatment, he or she may ask you to soak your nails in water and then apply a urea-based cream that will soften them. Next, cover the nail with a bandage for 1 day then soak it again. After that, scrape the surface of the nail and apply the cream again. Repeat this treatment for 2 weeks.
To get rid of the fungus completely, apply an antifungal cream after scraping the infected nail surface
Step 5. Have nail removal surgery if the fungal infection doesn't respond to oral or topical treatments
To treat a severe infection, the doctor may have to remove the nail so that it can reach the infected area underneath. Once the nail bed is treated, your nails should be healthy again.
Do you know?
In some cases, the doctor may inhibit nail growth. Ask the doctor about the purpose of surgery and recovery. That way, you will be satisfied with the results.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Nail Fungus
Step 1. Choose breathable socks and comfortable footwear
Your feet must be dry throughout the day to avoid fungal infections. Wear moisture-wicking socks and make sure your shoe size is not so tight that it presses against your toes.
Try wearing different shoes every day. That way, the shoes you wore the previous day can dry before you put them back on and don't make your nails wet
Tip:
if you can, also avoid wearing tight bottoms like stockings or compression socks as these can trap moisture around the nails.
Step 2. Wear rubber gloves when washing dishes or using cleaning products
These gloves can not only protect against bacteria during cleaning, but also prevent your hands from drying out. Because mold likes to live in warm and humid places, keeping your hands dry can help prevent infection.
Change gloves if there is liquid trapped in them. Don't let your nails soak in the dishwashing water or cleaning solution
Step 3. Wear shoes or sandals in public
Because the soles of your feet can be exposed to fungus when walking in public places barefoot, be sure to always wear sandals. Remember to wear slippers in public bathrooms, locker rooms, or in public swimming pools.
Do not share sandals or shoes with other people
Step 4. Trim your nails and keep them clean
Clean the dirt from under the nail then trim it horizontally before it gets too long. While it's okay to paint your nails occasionally, give yourself a break before changing the color, as nail polish can also trap moisture and increase the risk of infection.
If you paint your nails in a salon, make sure the equipment is sterilized for each customer
Tips
- Research shows that vinegar, oregano oil, and mouthwash are not effective at treating toenail fungus.
- The time it takes for fingernails and toenails to grow back to normal is 3-6 months and 12-18 months, respectively.
- Clinical laser treatment may be effective for toenail fungus, but is currently only available in clinical trials.
