How It Works, Effectiveness and More

Listerine for feet?

A Listerine foot soak is a type of at-home foot bath. It’s primarily used to treat athlete’s foot and onychomycosis (toenail fungus). People also use Listerine on their feet to help remove dead skin.

Listerine, which is normally used to help prevent cavities and gingivitis, has numerous active ingredients. When it comes to feet, this type of wash isn’t used to combat odor, but rather for the antifungal properties found in menthol and thymol.

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Below are step-by-step instructions for performing a Listerine foot soak:

• Find a tub that fits the length and depth of your feet. While a foot spa works well, any deep tub can work.
• Fill the tub with Listerine along with two parts of warm water. You will need enough to cover your entire feet.
• Instead of water, you can also mix in equal portions of white vinegar. This type of vinegar is thought to get rid of fungus because of its high levels of acidity.
• Place feet in the solution for 45 to 60 minutes at a time.
• Use a Listerine foot soak every day until fungus clears up. You may also consider using the soak occasionally as a preventive measure.

If you’re running short on time, you may also apply Listerine with a cotton ball to your feet twice daily.

The key to using Listerine for fungus is patience. Just as with prescription antifungal treatments, it can take a few months for the fungus to completely go away. However, you may start seeing noticeable improvements right away.

Though the ingredients in Listerine are thought to possess antifungal properties, no studies have proven that the mouthwash is a surefire way to get rid of foot and nail fungus.

One study stated that Listerine could prevent fungal infections in people with autoimmune diseases. However, the study focused more on fungal infections in the mouth.

The powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties of Listerine are clear — as a mouthwash. Clinical studies are needed to support Listerine as an alternative treatment for foot fungus.

Although Listerine foot soaks are relatively safe, they may not be appropriate for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, the soak could cause mild irritation. Consider testing a small area of skin with Listerine (and vinegar if you decide to use it for the soak) before doing a full soak. After applying the sample, wait several hours to see if you experience any reactions.

If you have athlete’s foot, using this foot soak alone won’t prevent the condition from returning. Be sure to keep your feet dry and to bathe regularly after periods of sweating. Changing your socks often helps during long periods of activity. You may also use a daily spray or powder to keep your feet dry if your feet tend to sweat a lot.

Keeping your nails trimmed can also help prevent fungal infections from occurring on your feet. If you have in-grown toe nails, avoid using Listerine, as this could irritate the area. You may want to have the in-grown nail removed by your doctor to prevent infection.

When it comes to foot and toenail fungus, Listerine foot soaks may be an alternative remedy you can use at home. Overall, this method doesn’t carry serious risks and side effects. However, consider asking a pediatrician first before using this foot soak on children.

Still, there’s not enough solid evidence to support Listerine as a reliable treatment for foot fungus. You should see your doctor if fungal infections on your feet and toenails fail to clear up, even after using home remedies like Listerine. Some nail infections can lead to more serious complications, especially if you have diabetes or other underlying medical conditions.

Home remedies for toenail fungus: Are they effective?

Some people may try home remedies to get rid of toenail fungus. Examples include baking soda, menthol products, and more. However, home remedies may not be effective in preventing infections. Medical treatments may be necessary.

Toenail fungus is a common infection of the toenails. Also known as onychomycosis, it can cause the toenail to discolor and thicken. As it is contagious, it often starts in one toenail and spreads to several others.

Fungal nail infections can occur in anyone and result from many different types of fungi. They can be difficult to treat and often do not go away without prescription-strength antifungal medications, such as antifungal pills. Though effective, these medications cause unpleasant side effects in some cases, ranging from an upset stomach to other skin issues.

As a result, people may consider home remedies to treat toenail fungus. However, home remedies are often not effective. While they may help suppress mild cases, they are unlikely to prevent infections. Instead, people may consider trying certain remedies alongside prescription antifungal treatments.

This article will discuss some of the more popular methods that people may try at home to treat toenail fungus and their effectiveness.

Proponents of baking soda may suggest it as a remedy as it can help absorb moisture that may cause toenail fungus. Additionally, it may possess fungistatic properties, meaning it does not kill fungi but can prevent them from growing. A small older study supports this, suggesting that baking soda can prevent fungal growth.

However, there is not much scientific evidence to support baking soda as a remedy and no evidence suggesting it can treat fungal infections.

Some people may advise using products that contain menthol, such as a menthol rub, to help treat toenail fungus. However, they are unlikely to provide many benefits.

A small 2011 study using a mentholated ointment suggests it may help with toenail fungus but is unlikely to treat the infection. More research is necessary to prove that menthol products are effective for treating toenail fungus.

Vinegar is a common household product, and apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a common ingredient in many different home remedies. A 2017 study notes that ACV may possess some antifungal properties. However, it also notes that more research is necessary to investigate this further.

Click here to learn more about apple cider vinegar and candida.

As with vinegar, there is no direct scientific evidence to support using mouthwash to treat toenail fungus. However, some research suggests that mouthwash containing chlorhexidine may have antifungal properties.

It is worth noting that mouthwash containing this ingredient generally requires a prescription in the United States, so a person cannot buy it over the counter.

Typically used for seasoning food, garlic may provide some benefit for helping to treat toenail fungus as well. Though limited, there is some evidence to support this claim.

A 2019 study notes that garlic extract may display antifungal properties against fungi that can cause toenail infections. However, more research is necessary, and the study suggests using garlic extract alongside common antifungal drugs.

Snakeroot may not be well-known in the U.S. but is a traditional treatment for different skin conditions and injuries in Mexico. Also known as Ageratina pichinchensisis, it is part of the sunflower family and may possess antifungal properties.

A 2020 study adds that while a few small studies have found varying levels of success using snakeroot oil, larger, well-designed studies are necessary to evaluate its effectiveness further.

Some evidence suggests that certain essential oils may possess antifungal properties and have some use alongside existing antifungal treatments. However, these oils can pose a risk of allergy and irritation.

A 2020 study using a topical formulation containing vitamin E and essential oils of lime, oregano, and tea tree indicates it may have some benefit in treating onychomycosis. However, it is worth noting that this study used a topical product containing these ingredients, and using them at home may not have the same effect.

While home remedies are unlikely to provide many benefits, the following tips may be beneficial:

• keep nails short, dry, and clean
• use one nail clipper for the infected nails and another for the other toenails
• wear well-fitting and breathable shoes
• keep feet dry, wear cotton socks, and change them daily
• maintain good foot hygiene
• wear clean shower shoes when using a communal shower
• consider seeking treatment from a podiatrist if thickened toenails cause discomfort when walking

A person may require either oral or topical antifungal medication in most cases. In severe cases, they may also require surgery to remove the toenail.

Topical treatments

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that topical medicine may help treat a mild infection. In some cases, they may cause mild side effects, such as swelling, stinging, or burning. Topical treatments may include:

• amorolfine
• ciclopirox
• efinaconazole
• tavaborole

Oral treatments

For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral medications. These are often more effective and work quicker than topical treatments. However, these pills can cause side effects.

A doctor may advise that people avoid alcohol and sun exposure while taking these antifungals. They may also require blood tests to check for any problems. Oral treatments may include:

• fluconazole
• griseofulvin
• itraconazole
• terbinafine

Combination therapy

In some cases, a doctor may advise using both topical and oral antifungal treatments.

Toenail fungus is typically not a significant problem for most people. However, if there are no improvements or complications occur as a result of home remedies, people should speak with a doctor and stop using the home remedy as soon as possible. It is also advisable to contact a podiatrist if a person notices any discoloration, thickening, or abnormality of the toenails.

Furthermore, people at higher risk for complications should seek medical treatment for their toenail fungus and avoid home remedies altogether. This includes those with diabetes or with weakened immune systems.

Home remedies are typically not effective for treating toenail fungal infections. While some options may help temporarily suppress milder infections, they are unlikely to treat the infection. Instead, people should use prescription-strength oral and topical antifungal medications. It is also important for people to take care of their feet and maintain good foot hygiene.

A person should contact a doctor if they have any doubts about treatments, their infection is not clearing, or they have underlying conditions, such as diabetes.

Read the article in Spanish.

6 Ways to Safely Treat Toenail Fungus at Home

Toenail fungus sounds weird, but believe it or not, it’s more common than you think. That’s because this annoying foot problem, which most often shows up as yellowing, cracking, and thickening of the nails, can be caused by everything from slow nail growth and excessive sweating to nail fungus and walking barefoot in common areas like swimming pools. , showers, gyms, etc.

“Most infections are caused by tinea species, but more difficult-to-treat dermatophyte species can also occur,” says Francisco Oliva. He adds that infections usually occur when several problems affecting the toenail come together. “Sometimes at some point there is a trauma to the nail,” he explains. “The consequences can be delayed for months and years. Once the fungus invades the nail, the keratin layer of the nail becomes an impenetrable barrier.”

What is toenail fungus?

DEFINITION: “Toenail fungus is usually an infection of the nail caused by opportunistic fungi,” explains Oliva. It can cause a yellow or white tint, thickening, or chipping of the outer edges of the nail.

While toenail fungus can occur in people of any age, board-certified dermatologist Mari Hayag, MD, says it’s most common in older people. “As we age, nails become brittle and dry, which can lead to cracked nails that make them susceptible to fungal infections,” she explains, noting that all of the aforementioned causes can become an even bigger problem as a result.

MEET THE EXPERT

– Marie Hayag, MD, is a board certified dermatologist practicing in Manhattan. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor at Mount Sinai Hospital and also teaches at the Department of Dermatology Surgery Clinic.

– Francisco Oliva, Miami-based podiatrist in private practice for over 25 years.

However, since toenail fungus can develop at any age, below are the best ways to treat toenail fungus at home.

1. APPLY NATURA HEAD EXTRACT

According to a 2008 study, regular use of serpentine extract on toenails can help clear up a fungal infection.

“A study found that applying snakehead extract to affected nails every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month can be as effective as the prescription antifungal drug ciclopirox ”, explains Khayag. “This antifungal plant can be found online and is relatively inexpensive.”

When using snakehead extract, a few drops can be added directly to each affected nail, or moistened with a cotton pad or gauze and stuck to the nail for longer absorption.

2. SPRAY THE AFFECTED AREA WITH OREGANO OIL

Believe it or not, this delicious herb can also work wonders for treating toenail fungus at home. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Skin Appendage Disorders, scientists have found that oregano’s antibacterial properties can inhibit the growth of nail fungus when included in an essential oil blend.

“Although the effectiveness of oregano oil is only known by hearsay, thymol, a common component of oregano oil, has been found to be an effective antibacterial and antifungal agent,” Hayag says. “People with toenail fungus can apply the remedy to the affected areas twice a day and can expect no improvement, partial improvement, or complete improvement of toenail fungus after using oregano oil.” However, she noted that oregano oil is quite potent and can cause an adverse reaction if you have particularly sensitive skin. For this reason, she recommends starting with a patch test. In addition, to prevent adverse reactions, it is recommended to mix oregano oil with a carrier oil such as olive oil or avocado oil to reduce its strength.

3. SOAK YOUR FEET IN VINEGAR

Here is another pantry item that can give optimal results for fungal toenail infections. According to Hayag, applying white vinegar to fungus-affected areas can be beneficial due to its antibacterial properties.

Like oregano oil, the use of white vinegar on fungal toenails has some anecdotal evidence of its antibacterial properties. “Soak your foot in one part vinegar to two parts warm water for 20 minutes daily,” she advises, saying it can help with fungus, only help with discoloration, or not at all, depending on how your feet react. toes.

4. ENJOY LAVENDER OIL

Lavender oil is known for being incredibly soothing to the senses, of course, but it’s also great for fighting toenail fungal infections. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, lavender has a powerful antifungal effect. “Lavender essential oil has demonstrated a powerful antifungal effect against fungal strains responsible for toenail fungus and other skin fungal infections,” explains Hayag. “When using lavender oil to treat toenail fungus, it is best to apply one to two drops of lavender oil to the affected nail and leave for 10 minutes.” Once absorbed, she advises gently brushing the affected area with a clean toothbrush and repeating the procedure daily until the infection clears up.

5. USE OR USE GARLIC

A 2019 study shows that garlic is an antifungal agent, potentially making it a gem for treating fungal toenail infections. “It’s best to apply crushed or minced garlic to the affected area every day,” Khayag says. “It is important to be careful when using this remedy, as garlic can cause chemical burns to the skin.” To avoid burns, you can also take garlic supplements to see if this helps clear things up.

6. THINK ABOUT A HEALTHIER DIET

“It is widely recognized that there is a relationship between a healthy diet and a healthy body,” Hayag explains. “The healthier a person is, the more likely they are to be able to fight off infections like fungal toenail infections. ” With that in mind, Hayag says people should look to probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and foods high in protein to support nail growth, foods high in iron to prevent brittle nails, and foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. “While it cannot cure toenail fungus, it can help the body fight the fungus and promote an efficient healing process,” she explains.

FINAL WORD

Knowing how to treat a fungal toenail infection can be helpful. However, Oliva reminds us that we must live up to our expectations. “It can take at least four to six months for the infection to clear up,” he says, noting that he recommends seeing an orthopedic doctor if there is no improvement in that time. “Successful treatment can be judged if the new part of the nail grows more clearly within a few months of treatment.”

With that said, it’s just as helpful to know how to treat toenail fungus if it occurs, but it’s even more helpful to know how to prevent it. The best way to do this is to wear sweat-wicking socks, wear shower shoes in locker rooms and pools, and wash your hands thoroughly after touching your feet, Hayag says.

But the good news is that even if you develop a mild fungal toenail infection, Hayag says that for most people it causes little to no discomfort, and in some cases the fungus can go away on its own. “Most people can use home remedies or just let their toenails grow on their own,” she says. “However, if toenail fungus is severe enough, or if the person is immunocompromised, it is best to see a specialist.”

But note that this applies to mild fungal infections. If you notice that your toe is swollen, red, or tender to the touch, see your doctor. Also, if your toe is hotter than the rest of your body, pus starts leaking from it, or the infection spreads to your skin, see your doctor right away.

Source: www.byrdie.com
Author: Rebecca Norris

The Global Fashion store brings to your attention professional products for the care and modeling of nails.

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Is it possible to treat nail fungus at home

Treatment of nail fungus at home. What is the efficiency?
A common mistake is the irresponsible attitude to nail fungus. Many consider this disease only a cosmetic defect, do not pay attention to its treatment. Meanwhile, this pathogenic microorganism poses a danger to the whole organism. It releases toxic substances that penetrate into the bloodstream, to all organs, systems, and can cause a lot of harm. Not all patients, when a fungus is detected, turn to a specialist, believing that it is possible to cope with the disease at home with folk remedies. Practice shows that with the help of such methods it is impossible to completely get rid of the fungus.

Folk ways to fight the fungus, their effectiveness
There are many recipes for the treatment of nail fungus in the folk piggy bank. The most popular:

• treatment of nail plates with hydrogen peroxide, iodine;
• hot tubs with apple or wine vinegar;
• rubbing nails with celandine juice, garlic

These methods have a certain efficiency. The disinfectant properties of iodine tincture and hydrogen peroxide make it possible to destroy microorganisms. The fungus dies in an acidic environment under the influence of components of celandine juice and garlic. But, unfortunately, it is impossible to eliminate all causative agents of the disease using these methods. The fungus spreads deep into the nail plates, skin, cuticles. Processing, wiping, baths allow you to act only on the upper tissues. Microorganisms in the deep layers remain, multiply rapidly, the disease continues to spread.

Such methods have one more drawback. Their use allows you to suppress the activity of the fungus, the pronounced symptoms disappear, the patient stops treatment, believing that he has coped with the disease. However, a decrease in immunity due to diseases, stress, and for other reasons provides the fungus with the opportunity to actively multiply, increase the area of ​​\u200b\u200baffected areas.

Treatment with pharmacological preparations
Pharmacies offer a large number of different preparations intended for the treatment of fungus. You can go and buy products that are heavily advertised, promising instant recovery. The category of drugs includes:

• antimycotic tablets;
• antifungal ointments;
• special varnishes
All of these products contain active ingredients that destroy pathogens. But it should be noted that there are several dozen types of microorganisms. It is impossible to determine the pathogen on your own. It is important to choose the optimal course of treatment to prevent relapse. In addition, the fungus has a negative effect on the entire body, for a full recovery, immunomodulators, vitamin and mineral complexes may be required. Do not forget about the toxic properties of antifungal drugs. Wrong choice, use can cause serious problems. Therefore, only an appeal to a dermatologist can guarantee a complete recovery.

Effective ways to get rid of the fungus
In modern medicine, there are effective ways to deal with this disease.