Covering discolored or disfigured toenails with nail polish might seem like a quick solution, but it can actually make things worse. Fungus thrives in moist conditions, and polish can create an ideal environment for it to spread. Understanding how toenail fungus develops and the best ways to treat it can help you protect your nails and prevent further infection.
What Is Nail Fungus?
Toenail fungus or onychomycosis is a common fungal infection that affects toenails more often than fingernails. It occurs when fungi get in between the toenail and the tissue underneath, known as the toenail bed, usually through a crack or cut in the toe.
Symptoms of toenail fungus include:
- cracked, itchy, red, or swollen skin nearby.
- discoloration of the nail, as it may turn white, black, yellow or green.
- distortion of the nail, as it may become thick or take on an unusual texture.
- pain or discomfort, particularly when using or placing pressure on the affected digit.
Anyone can get this medical condition, but it often affects older adults, particularly those over 60.
Can Toenail Fungus Be Spread Through Nail Polish?
Applying polish to an infected nail can transfer fungal spores to the brush and bottle, potentially contaminating the polish. Fungi can grow in certain nail polishes, and the use of contaminated polish on healthy nails can lead to the spread of infection. You can bring your own nail polish to the nail salon to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I Wear Nail Polish While Treating Toenail Fungus?
Nail polish traps moisture in the nail bed. Since fungi grow in moist environments, wearing nail polish can make the infection worse. Plus, if a topical antifungal treatment is being used, nail polish may prevent it from effectively treating the nail.
Simply put, toenail fungus and nail polish don’t go hand in hand.
How Is Toenail Fungus Treated?
Treating toenail fungus is notoriously difficult, and it could take several months to resolve. A podiatrist can recommend the best treatment plan for you.
- Oral medication – A prescribed oral antifungal medication can be taken daily for several months to treat the fungus. Since these medications can affect the liver and interact with other medications, they’re not for everyone.
- Topical medication – Regularly applying a topical medication on the nail is another treatment method. It’s most effective when paired with an oral medication.
- Laser treatment – A healthcare provider can use a specialized laser to penetrate the nail and target the fungus beneath it. This in-office procedure is a non-invasive option that is typically considered after other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Introducing the PinPointe™ FootLaser®
PinPointe™ FootLaser® is the first FDA-cleared laser treatment for toenail fungus. This in-office procedure takes about 30 minutes, is nearly painless, and has minimal side effects. While other treatments struggle to reach the fungus, PinPointe™ FootLaser® safely penetrates the nail itself, directly addressing the root of the issue.
Explore Effective Solutions for Toenail Fungus
Covering toenail fungus with polish won’t make it go away, but the right treatment can. The Foot & Ankle Center provides thorough evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your needs. Our safe options, which include the PinPointe™ FootLaser®, effectively restore healthy nails.
Learn more by requesting an appointment online or calling our knowledgeable doctors at (314) 487-9300!