Can nail fungus spread through nail polish. How does nail polish affect fungal infections. What precautions should be taken when using nail care tools. Is it safe to visit nail salons with toenail fungus. How can antifungal nail polish help prevent fungal infections.

The Spread of Nail Fungus: Facts and Misconceptions

Nail fungus is a common condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Understanding its transmission is crucial for prevention and management. While it’s widely known that nail fungus can spread, there are several misconceptions about how this occurs, particularly regarding nail polish.

Can nail fungus spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, nail fungus can indeed spread beyond the initially affected nail. It can migrate to:

• Other nails on the hands or feet
• The skin between toes
• The groin area
• The scalp

Interestingly, the same fungus causing nail infections can also lead to athlete’s foot. This underscores the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent widespread infection.

The Role of Nail Polish in Fungal Transmission

The relationship between nail polish and fungal transmission is more complex than it might seem at first glance. While nail polish itself isn’t a direct vector for fungal spread, it can create conditions that make fungal infections more likely.

Does nail polish directly spread fungus?

The likelihood of fungus spreading directly through nail polish is low. The chemicals present in nail polish create an environment that’s generally not conducive to fungal growth. However, this doesn’t mean the risk is non-existent. It’s still advisable to avoid sharing nail polish, especially if you have a known fungal infection.

How does nail polish contribute to fungal infections?

While nail polish may not directly spread fungus, it can increase susceptibility to fungal infections in several ways:

1. It can make nails more brittle and prone to damage
2. It reduces nail breathability, trapping moisture
3. Continuous use without breaks can weaken nail health

To minimize these risks, it’s recommended to use nail polish in moderation. A good rule of thumb is to follow a “one week on, one week off” schedule at most. This allows nails to breathe and recover between applications.

Nail Care Tools and Fungal Transmission

While nail polish may not be a significant direct risk for fungal transmission, nail care tools present a more substantial concern. These tools can easily become carriers of fungal spores if not properly sanitized between uses.

Which nail care tools pose the highest risk?

Several common nail care tools can potentially spread fungal infections:

• Toenail clippers
• Nail files
• Cuticle pushers
• Foot files or pumice stones

To prevent transmission, it’s crucial never to share these tools between individuals. Additionally, using separate tools for toenails and fingernails can help prevent the spread of fungus from feet to hands.

How should nail care tools be cleaned?

Proper cleaning and sterilization of nail care tools are essential for preventing fungal transmission. Here are some effective methods:

1. Wash tools with soap and water after each use
2. Soak tools in isopropyl alcohol for at least 10 minutes
3. Use UV sterilization boxes for more thorough disinfection
4. For metal tools, consider using an autoclave for professional-level sterilization

Regular cleaning not only prevents fungal spread but also extends the lifespan of your nail care tools.

Nail Salons and Fungal Infection Risks

Visiting nail salons can be a relaxing experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks, especially regarding fungal infections. While professional salons take precautions, there’s always a degree of risk involved.

Are nail salons safe for those with fungal infections?

While there’s no 100% guarantee of safety, many reputable nail salons follow strict hygiene protocols to minimize the risk of fungal transmission. However, if you have an active fungal infection, it’s generally advisable to avoid nail salons until the infection clears. This protects both you and other clients from potential cross-contamination.

How to choose a safe nail salon?

When selecting a nail salon, consider the following factors to reduce your risk of fungal infections:

• Ensure the salon and all technicians are fully licensed
• Choose salons that use autoclaves or UV light for tool sterilization
• Opt for salons with pipeless foot baths to reduce hiding places for fungi
• Schedule appointments earlier in the day when equipment is likely to be freshly sanitized
• Bring your own nail polish to eliminate the risk of contamination from shared bottles

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting a fungal infection at a nail salon.

Antifungal Nail Polish: A Protective Solution

For those who love to keep their nails polished but are concerned about fungal infections, antifungal nail polish offers a potential solution. These specialized polishes are designed to inhibit fungal growth while providing the aesthetic benefits of regular nail polish.

What makes antifungal nail polish different?

Antifungal nail polishes differ from regular polishes in several key ways:

1. They contain ingredients that actively inhibit fungal growth
2. Many are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene
3. They often include nourishing ingredients like Vitamins E, A, and B7 (Biotin)
4. Some are infused with undecylenic acid, a known antifungal agent

These polishes aim to provide protection against fungal infections while maintaining nail health.

Can antifungal nail polish cure existing infections?

While antifungal nail polish can be an effective preventive measure, it’s important to note that it cannot cure an existing, deeply rooted fungal infection. These polishes are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive nail care routine that includes proper hygiene and, if necessary, medical treatment for active infections.

Comprehensive Nail Fungus Treatment Approach

Treating nail fungus effectively often requires a multi-faceted approach. While antifungal nail polish can play a role in prevention, addressing an active infection typically involves more intensive measures.

What steps are involved in treating nail fungus?

A comprehensive treatment plan for nail fungus may include:

1. Professional trimming and filing of the affected nail by a podiatrist
2. Laser treatment to eliminate fungus beneath the nail plate
3. Daily application of topical antifungal medications
4. Keeping the nail uncovered when possible to promote drying
5. Consideration of Keryflex Nail Restoration for severely damaged nails
6. Use of antifungal nail polish once the infection is under control

This multi-step approach addresses both the immediate infection and helps prevent future recurrences.

Prevention Strategies for Nail Fungus

While treating nail fungus is important, prevention is always preferable. By adopting certain habits and practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing fungal nail infections.

How can one prevent nail fungus infections?

Effective prevention strategies for nail fungus include:

• Keeping feet clean and dry, especially between toes
• Wearing breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks
• Using antifungal sprays or powders in shoes
• Avoiding walking barefoot in public areas like pools or locker rooms
• Trimming nails regularly and keeping them short
• Using separate nail care tools for hands and feet
• Alternating shoes daily to allow them to dry completely
• Choosing breathable nail polishes and removing them regularly

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can create an environment that’s inhospitable to fungal growth.

Are there natural remedies for preventing nail fungus?

While medical treatments are most effective for active infections, some natural remedies may help prevent fungal growth:

1. Tea tree oil: Known for its antifungal properties
2. Apple cider vinegar: Creates an acidic environment unfavorable to fungi
3. Garlic: Contains compounds with antifungal effects
4. Oregano oil: Possesses natural antifungal and antibacterial properties
5. Coconut oil: Has both moisturizing and antifungal qualities

While these natural remedies can be helpful for prevention, they should not replace professional medical advice for treating active infections.

Understanding the relationship between nail fungus and nail care practices is crucial for maintaining healthy nails. While nail polish itself may not directly spread fungus, it can create conditions that make infections more likely. By adopting proper hygiene practices, choosing appropriate nail care products, and being cautious with shared tools and salon visits, you can significantly reduce your risk of fungal nail infections. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread of nail fungus to other nails or parts of the body. If you suspect you have a fungal nail infection, consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can Nail Fungus Spread Through Nail Polish?

Can Nail Fungus Spread?

The short answer to this is, yes. Nail fungus can spread to other nails, to the skin between your toes, and even to your groin and/or scalp! In fact, the same fungus that has caused your nail fungus can cause athlete’s foot in your feet. That’s why it’s important to keep tabs on symptoms and seek treatment as soon as you notice anything off.

So Can Nail Fungus Really Spread Through Nail Polish?

There is no short answer here. It’s kind of a yes, but not in the way you’d expect.

It’s highly unlikely that fungus will directly spread from nail to nail via nail polish application because a bottle of polish isn’t the most conducive environment for fungal growth due to all the chemicals present. However, while the risk is low, it’s not zero either, so we would not recommend sharing nail polish! And due to that, if you get your nails done in a nail salon, we would always recommend bringing your own nail polish in so that you know that only you have used it before.

Getting back to the main question, the bigger concern is that wearing nail polish at all can make you more susceptible to fungal infection. It can do this by making your nails more brittle, crumbly, and less breathable.

Our main suggestion is then that you use nail polish in moderation and avoid sharing polish with anyone else. Our golden rule is one week on, one week off, at the absolute most. Any more, and you’re basically preparing breeding grounds for nail fungi.

If you want to be extra safe, you can get separate bottles for your infected and non-infected toes.

What About Other Nail Care Tools?

Nail care tools can definitely spread nail fungus, which is why salons are required to sterilize their tools between clients, just like in the healthcare world. Nail and skin care tools like toenail clippers, nail files, and the like should never be shared from person-to-person.

We also recommend you use separate clippers for toenails and fingernails, and clean and sterilize your tools after use. This way you for sure will not spread any toenail fungus to the nails on your hands.

Bonus tip: although it’s tempting to try to deal with a fungal toenail by attempting to trim it as short as possible, this is usually counterproductive. Cutting your nail too short usually means more trauma to the nail bed and a greater opportunity for further infection through an ingrown toenail.

Should You Go to the Nail Salon at All?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to be 100 percent guaranteed that you’ll be protected from contracting or spreading nail fungus if you go out for a pedicure. Fungi like to hide in foot baths, jets, and tools that haven’t been completely cleaned.

If you do want to take your toenails to the salon, whether you have an ongoing fungal toenail infection or not, following these tips can help make you safer:

• Make sure the salon and all technicians are fully licensed.
• Choose salons that fully sterilize all tools using either an autoclave or UV light between guests. Tools or products (such as polish) that can’t be sterilized should be single-use only.
• If possible, choose a salon that uses pipeless foot baths, as fungi can linger in pipes even if the basin is thoroughly sterilized between patients.
• Try to schedule an appointment earlier in the day, as there’s less opportunity for baths or tools to be contaminated by other guests.

I have toenail fungus but I want to paint my nails

There is an answer for toenail fungus …Antifungal Nail Polish!

Anti Toenail Fungus Polish

Nail polish that inhibits fungus growth on the nail. It is also free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, Xylene, Toluene, and Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) among others.

Antifungal polish comes in over 20 colors.

Chip resistent antifungal toenail polish contains Vitamins E & A, and B7 (Biotin). It is undeclyenic acid infused and is not tested on animals.

Regular nail polish traps moisture under the nail plate, creating the perfect growth conditions for fungus- a warm, dark, moist environment. While antifungal nail polish cannot cure an already deeply infected nail, it can protect the progress you can make all winter following our recommendations to beautiful fungus free nails!

Best way to cure  fungus toenails:

1. Have your Podiatrist trim back the damaged nail and file very smooth
2. Laser to kill fungus living under the nail plate.
3. Leave uncovered all winter and apply daily applications of topical antifungal medications
4. You may want to apply Keryflex Nail Restoration- a artificial toenail that doesn’t come off until it grows out.
5. Apply antifungal nail polish for the summer!

Ingrown Toenail: Topical antifungal Nail Treatments

There are several over-the-counter topical nail products for ingrown toenails available wherever health products are sold. Some of these antifungal treatments contain botanical ingredients such as menthol and tea tree oil designed to decrease your inflammation. Additionally many topical agents will contain a salicylic acid. Salicylic acids relieve pain and soften nails. Do not use over the counter remedies if you have diabetes, AIDS, an infection of the foot or poor circulation.

Make sure to wear shoe that fit well and have enough room for your toes. If your shoes are not well-fitting and roomy, they can apply constant pressure to the nail, causing it to embed into the skin. This helps both ingrown and fungal toenails!

When To Look For Ingrown Toenail?

Generally, you should see your doctor when you first notice your ingrown nail, but maybe you want wait for it to heal on its own. At first ingrown toenail may not sound like a really serious problem, but as it grows older it can start becoming dangerous, and can lead to many problems like pain, infections and amputation if ignored for too long, so if you notice the following symptoms visit your doctor as soon as possible.

1. If You Feel Continuous Discomfort

At early days of ingrown nail a little pain is normal, but as it grows older then discomfort will start raising and then there will be a point when you will feel continuous pain. If this happens then make sure to see your doctor first, since such symptoms aren’t good for an ingrown toenail at all.

2. If You Notice Pus From Your Nail

Pus coming out of your ingrown toenail has only one answer, your toenail is infected! The injury caused by your ingrown toenail gave a good way to bacteria and germs to enter your wound and body which caused you infection. If an infection isn’t treated properly then it can lead to dangerous consequences like amputation. Sometimes bacteria may even enter your bloodstream which can lead to infection everywhere in your body.

3. If You Have Diabetes

One last important thing about ingrown toenail everyone should know is that a diabetic person should never ignore it. Since any kind of wound can be life threating to a diabetic patient as their healing speed is really slow which makes them more susceptible to infections. Many diabetes patients need to lose their legs because of such reasons, so if you are a diabetic person suffering from ingrown nail then make sure to get it’s treatment right away.

Which Nail Polish Can You Use If You Have Fungal Toenails?

Medications-Free Nail Polish

Regular nail paint may look beautiful when used to hide diseased toenails, but doing so might exacerbate infections.

It is wet and dark where fungus thrives. Fungus can flourish in environments created by nail polish.

Antifungal nail polish can be covered with non-medicated nail polish. But, it’s recommended to completely avoid non-medicated nail paint if you want your fungal infection to go away. Antifungal treatment will permeate the nails more slowly if non-medicated nail polish is used.

If you want to use non-medicated nail polish, give your toenails a chance to breathe and take the polish off as soon as you can.

Application of Antifungal Nail Polish

To be successful, medicated nail paint can be used everyday or a few times each week.

Before reapplying, remove the previous coat of antifungal nail lacquer with an alcohol swab. Wash your feet with warm water or take a warm shower.

Your toenails should be filed and trimmed to get rid of any damaged or infected areas. Polish up clean, dry nails with nail polish.

Apply the therapy to the skin around the nails, the nail bed, and the nails themselves. Let it at least 30 seconds to dry.

Let’s review the main recommendation for avoiding fungus:

• Use an anti-fungal spray on your shoes. It keeps the fungus at bay.
• If your old, worn-out gardening shoes are not made of rubber, throw them away. The same goes for your long-time favorite canvas shoes.
• To reduce moisture if you have sweaty feet, switch your socks once throughout the day. A fungus has a less-than-ideal environment to develop in the less moisture you have.
• If you have a tendency to perspire a lot, apply an anti-fungal powder on your feet.
• Weekly bath mat cleaning. We have no idea what animals are prospering there.

Call now for general information or to schedule an appointment 878-313-FEET (3338)!

• Pittsburgh Podiatrist with 22 years of experience
• 4 convenient Pittsburgh foot clinic locations
• Board Certified Podiatrist ABFAS

list of top 6 inexpensive and effective products for adults according to KP

The condition of the nails and the skin around them is an indicator of the health of the body as a whole. In men, fungal diseases of the nails occur 1.5 times more often, but at the same time they go to the doctor 2 times less often than women ¹ . Elderly people get sick with fungus more often, but in children, onychomycosis is very rare ¹ . Another fact: toenails are 10 times more likely to develop fungus than fingernails ¹ .

The duration of treatment for fungal nail is usually 6 to 12 months. However, doctors remind that if the recommendations are not followed, the disease may return ¹ .

List of Top 6 Inexpensive Toenail Fungus Polishes for Adults by KP

Various drugs, both medicinal and cosmetic, are used to treat onychomycosis. We have collected 6 inexpensive varnishes for toenail fungus, which can be found in pharmacies.

Important! Any varnishes from nail fungus have side effects and contraindications. Our material is for guidance only and does not serve as a guide to action. Before buying funds, be sure to consult a dermatologist or podiatrist.

Exorolfinlac

Amorolfine-based agent is indicated for fungal nail infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts and molds. It is also convenient to use varnish for the prevention of toenail fungus in adults.

The drug is sold in 2.5 and 5 ml vials and is a clear, colorless liquid. The kit also includes spatulas for applying the product, cleansing wipes and nail files that allow you to avoid spreading the fungus to other healthy nails.

Contraindications : hypersensitivity to amorolfine and other components of the drug, under 18 years of age.

Amorolfine

It is a clear, colorless to yellow lacquer. This drug with the same active ingredient in the composition is intended to combat fungal nail infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts and molds.

Also suitable for the prevention of toenail fungus.

Antifungal drug is available in vials of various sizes – from 0.5 to 10 ml. The set also includes spatulas, nail files and cleansing swabs.

Contraindications : children under 18 years of age, hypersensitivity to amorolfine. Also, the drug should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.

Exilac

The product contains two active ingredients: terbinafine and econazole. These substances enhance the effect of each other, have an antifungal and antibacterial effect, disrupting the synthesis of the cell wall of the fungus at different stages of the life cycle. Indications for the use of medicinal nail polish are onychomycosis, or fungal diseases of the nails.

Exilac is available in 10 ml bottles. It is a colorless or light yellow transparent solution with an ethanol odor. Along with the varnish, a nail file is attached, you need to apply the product with a brush, which is already on the bottle cap.

Contraindications : hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnancy, breastfeeding period, age up to 18 years.

Onyhelp

Antifungal drug based on amorolfine acts pointwise, fighting mycelium and fungal spores in the thickness of the nail. Also, the varnish prevents the spread of fungus to neighboring nails.

The product is a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution and is available in 2.5 ml and 5 ml vials. The pack also contains alcohol wipes, nail files and applicator spatulas for applying the product.

Contraindications : hypersensitivity to amorolfine and other ingredients. Due to limited data, the varnish is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Oflomil

An antifungal drug with amorolfine as the active ingredient penetrates into the nail and into the nail bed.

Varnish has a wide spectrum of action, it is used against both the most common and rare pathogens of fungal infections of the nails. Also, varnish can be used as a prevention of fungal infections.

Oflomil is available in 2.5 ml and 5 ml vials. The set includes spatulas, nail files and cleansing swabs.

Contraindications : hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnancy and lactation.

Loceryl

The active ingredient in this medicinal varnish is also the antifungal substance amorolfine. It penetrates through the nail plate and reaches the site of infection, while preventing it from spreading to healthy tissues.

Antifungal is available as a colorless, clear liquid in 2.5 ml and 5 ml vials. The kit includes nail files and alcohol wipes, a spatula for applying varnish is already built into the lid of the product.

Contraindications : hypersensitivity to amorolfine and other components of the drug, pregnancy and lactation

How to choose varnishes from toenail fungus

You can choose varnish from toenail fungus for preventive purposes in a pharmacy yourself, after carefully reading the instructions. But if a fungal infection of the nail is already present, it is important to consult a dermatologist. The doctor, after examination and diagnosis, will prescribe an effective complex treatment ² , which will include medication, the use of external agents, as well as cosmetic procedures.

Doctors’ opinions about toenail fungus varnishes

According to many experts, toenail fungus varnishes are quite convenient to use. But still, it is better to use them specifically for the prevention and treatment of superficial and initial forms of nail fungus. In advanced cases, varnishes are not always effective.

Specialists also pay attention to the importance of correct application of the drug. Before starting treatment, remove as much of the affected nail plate as possible. The remaining part of the nail, which will be varnished, must be filed with the included file to create an uneven surface. Then the varnish is applied with a brush or spatula, which are included with the antifungal varnish. Before each application of varnish, the previous layer must be removed.

Popular questions and answers

The most popular questions about the treatment of toenail fungus are answered by teacher and director of the School of Apparatus Pedicure Anna Obukhova .

Is it possible to cure toenail fungus with nail polish alone?

– The pharmaceutical industry does wonders by creating antifungals with proven efficacy and a high safety profile. These drugs greatly facilitate the treatment process. However, the effectiveness of onychomycosis therapy increases if complex treatment is used. In advanced cases, systemic drugs and local agents are prescribed, which increases efficiency and reduces treatment time.

If you are using antimycotic nail polish to prevent fungal infection, you are guaranteed to keep your nails healthy.

Is it possible to cure nail fungus with folk remedies?

– Onychomycosis is not just a cosmetic problem. Over time, onychomycosis of the nails can develop into systemic mycosis, that is, the fungus will begin to affect the internal organs. The use of folk remedies for treatment will only increase the lifetime of the pathogen. With each week, the fungus and its spores penetrate deeper into the nail space and the skin around the nail.

Treatment started at an early stage reduces the duration of treatment to 3-6 months, while the likelihood of relapse is minimal. What will you choose: soak the nails affected by the fungus for years in decoctions of herbs or pastes / ointments prepared by yourself, or put on open shoes again in 3-12 months?

Which doctor treats toenail fungus?

– For starters, you can contact your local general practitioner. After the examination, he will give a referral to a dermatologist. An examination will be carried out, a scraping from the affected area will be taken. And only after that the doctor will make a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment regimen. In severe cases, a dermatologist may refer you for a consultation with a mycologist. A mycologist is a narrow specialist who knows everything about fungal infections.

If cases where the use of antimycotics will not be beneficial.

– In the post-COVID period, patients with the problem of onycholysis ³ are increasingly turning to us, confident that it is a nail fungus. If you notice that the entire nail or part of it has separated from the nail bed, while not changing the color and structure of the nail, then this is most likely not a fungus.

In this case, regular long-term use of antifungal varnishes and solutions will not be useful, will not restore the integrity of the nail and nail bed. It is also possible to burn the open space of the delicate nail bed.

If you have such a problem, you definitely need the help of an experienced specialist. Indeed, with such a nail, one must be especially careful: do not cut or remove it in order to preserve the natural appearance of the fingers.

Is photodynamic therapy effective for treating nail fungus?

– This relatively new treatment for onychomycosis really works. With the help of a light wave emitter and a special gel, pathological cells are destroyed safely and painlessly. The number of sessions and the depth of exposure depend on the degree of damage to the nail plate.

To protect and strengthen the structure of the nail, it is recommended to use antimycotic varnishes between treatments.

Photo: market.yandex.ru, KP

Sources :

1. Onychomycosis: treatment and prevention. Lykova S., Nemchaninova O., Spitsyna A. Vrach magazine, 2016. https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/onihomikoz-lechenie-i-profilaktika
2. Onychomycosis: a view of a dermatologist and a surgeon. Burova S.A., Privolnev V.V. Journal them. professor B.M. Kostyuchenko, 2015. https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/onihomikozy-vzglyad-dermatologa-i-hirurga
3. Onychodystrophy: clinic, diagnosis, treatment. Tsykin A.A., Sirmais N.S. breast cancer. No. 9 dated 05/20/2015. P. 508. https://www.rmj.ru/articles/obshchie-stati/Onihodistrofii_klinika_diagnostika_lechenie/

Toenail fungus lacquer: Oflomil, Loceryl, Batrafen, Mikozan

Contents tic agent

Toenail fungus is common. Onychomycosis brings inconvenience, no matter what a person’s immunity, age or lifestyle. If the disease is not cured at the initial stage, there is a threat to health. Under the action of the fungus, the work of internal organs is disrupted, the protective functions of the body weaken, and allergies appear. There is a deterioration in the appearance of the nails: they exfoliate, thicken, change color, and collapse. Mandatory treatment required.

Infection occurs during contact with a sick person, when visiting crowded places:

• swimming pools;
• gym locker rooms;
• public showers;
• beauty salons;
• saunas;
• shops;
• beaches.

The appearance of fungus is possible if you use someone else’s shoes, clothes, towels. The disease appears after wearing tight shoes:

• small wounds form on the skin;
• feet overheat, sweat;
• there is a favorable environment for reproduction.

Onychomycosis develops when you fail to wash your feet on time. Tourists and the military are familiar with this problem.

Antifungal varnish effectively fights infection

Varnish is widely used among effective drugs against fungus. It has a liquid consistency, so it gets directly to the source of the disease. The antimycotic fights against dangerous microorganisms located even deep inside the nail plate. After drying, a dense film is formed on the surface, which remains for a long time and is not smeared. The resulting coating prevents the reproduction of the fungus inside the nails, as it blocks the access of oxygen to it. It is also recommended to use before visiting places where the likelihood of infection is high.

Contraindications

Before applying varnish, you should carefully read the instructions for the drug, study the list of contraindications and side effects. Most medications excluded:

• while breastfeeding;
• during pregnancy;
• for children under 5 years of age.

Rules for applying nail polish

1. Wash hands and feet with soap, make a soap and soda bath.
2. Dry toenails with an absorbent towel.
3. Carefully remove affected nail areas where possible using scissors and a nail file sold with antifungal medication.
4. Soak a cotton swab in a water-alcohol solution, degrease the surface damaged by onychomycosis.
5. Apply the treatment varnish with a special spatula or brush, avoiding contact with the bottle itself.
6. Let dry for a few minutes.
7. Repeat the procedure 1-2 times a week, depending on the directions for use.

Before each new application, the old layer of medication is removed from the nails. There are times when allergic reactions to varnish occur: burning sensation, rash, itching. You should definitely inform your doctor about the occurrence of side effects!

List of the most common antifungal varnishes

Pharmacies provide a large selection of antimycotic agents that differ in their active ingredients. To eliminate the causative agent of onychomycosis, doctors recommend using varnish, which includes a substance effective against a particular type of infection.

For the selection of such drugs, the patient needs to contact a mycologist or dermatologist to take tests to identify the type of fungus. The list of the most effective varnishes includes Lotseril, Batrafen, Mikozan, Oflomil.

Loceryl

The drug Loceryl promotes the destruction of more than ten varieties of nail fungus. Dermatologists prescribe this varnish in the treatment and prevention of adult onychomycosis. It is permissible to use for the treatment of children only from the age of 12. The active ingredient is amorolfine. Loceryl penetrates deep into the nail bed, slows down the reproduction processes in 24 hours, disrupts the structure of the fungus.

After the first application, the effect of the medicine lasts more than a week. Then the procedure must be repeated. If the disease has captured small areas, then it is enough to use only varnish. When more than 2/3 of the nail plate is infected, complex treatment is carried out using additional drugs. Lotseril has a convenient package. The box contains a bottle of liquid, nail files, spatulas, and alcoholized cotton swabs.

Batrafen

Batrafen destroys more than 58 types of infections caused by dermatomycetes, yeast-like, mold fungi. It is suitable for combating pathogens of mycosis on the legs with any degree of infection of the nails. Contraindicated in children under 10 years of age. Not used during lactation and pregnancy. The active substance is ciclopirox. After getting into the depth of the keratin layer, Batrafen stops the spread of mycosis, as it disrupts the feeding process of the fungus, leads to the destruction of its cell membranes.

The treatment regimen is determined by the results of therapy. The first month to use Batrafen is recommended once every two days. Then the medical procedure is repeated twice a week. If the therapeutic effect is not achieved, then after 3 months the agent is applied once a week. It is undesirable to use Batrafen for more than six months.

Mycosan

Mycosan is an antimycotic varnish that helps to destroy the infection and improves the condition of the nails. The active ingredient is an extract of rye enzymes. It prevents the growth and reproduction of the fungus. This drug is prescribed for adults, except for pregnant and lactating women. Children under four years of age varnish is contraindicated.

Treatment lasts three to five months. It is applied twice a day, the data can be immediately entered into a special diary with which the drug is equipped. Mycosan should also be applied to intact nails to prevent infection. The drug is used both in the fight against mycosis and for its prevention. Varnish is useful for the prevention of mycosis of the nails. Under its action, they are smoothed, their appearance improves. The kit contains nail files, a brush applicator, templates on which you can mark the area of ​​​​infection, as well as a special diary for recording procedures.

Oflomil

Oflomil lacquer is a drug against nail fungus based on amorolfine. Effective in the treatment of onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes, candida, actinomycetes, cryptococci, molds and other types of fungus. The active substance has a disinfecting effect even in deep keratin layers. Lac Oflomil creates a special film on the surface of the nails, through which the oxygen necessary for the life of the fungus does not pass. Pregnancy, lactation and children under 5 years of age are contraindications for use.

According to the instructions, the antimycotic should be applied once or twice a week. The procedures are carried out throughout the year until the full growth of healthy nails. Oflomil preparation is equipped with applicators for varnish, nail files for preliminary cleaning, cotton swabs soaked in alcohol.

Antimycotic drugs do not belong to the drugs with immediate effect. It is achieved after prolonged use. The healing process can take from a month to a year. Experts advise continuing to treat the damaged areas of the nails until the final recovery, when the nail plate grows back without signs of fungus. In complex therapy, not only varnish is used, but also other antimycotic agents for internal and external use: tablets, ointments, solutions. Only a specialist can choose the optimal combination of medicines. It is undesirable to supplement or change the list of drugs without consulting a dermatologist.

How to choose an antimycotic agent

It is not easy to choose medications for toenail fungus on your own.