January 17, 2024 - Revitalise London

Introduction

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, affects millions of people around the world and causes discomfort and embarrassment. With an increasing interest in natural remedies for nail fungus treatment, many turn towards holistic approaches while others pursue advanced treatments like laser therapy. This blog explores natural solutions for removal of nail fungus and reviews the effectiveness of laser therapy offered at Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic.

What Causes Nail Fungus?

Before considering treatment options for nail fungus, it's essential to identify its causes and symptoms. Onychomycosis typically results from dermatophytes, yeasts and moulds which thrive in warm, moist environments. Toenails tend to be more affected than fingernails; this can cause discoloured, brittle and thickened nails.

Nail fungus can be particularly susceptible to certain risk factors, including:

Age: Older individuals are especially prone to nail infections due to reduced blood circulation and slower nail growth.
Sweaty Feet: Excessive sweating creates a moist environment that fosters fungal growth.
Public Facilities: Walking barefoot in communal showers, locker rooms or swimming pools increases the risk of contracting nail fungus.
Athlete's foot: If left untreated, this fungal infection can spread to nails.
Weakening Immunity System: Conditions such as diabetes or HIV can make individuals more prone to nail fungus infections.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key in order to prevent the spread of this fungus and its complications. Consult a dermatologist, such as those at Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic, for proper diagnosis and management.

Natural Solutions for Nail Fungus Removal

Numerous natural solutions claim to remove nail fungus:

Tea Tree Oil: Extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia plant, tea tree oil contains antifungal and antibacterial properties that may improve nail appearance. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil before application to reduce irritation or allergic reactions.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted apple cider vinegar creates an acidic environment that inhibits fungal growth. Soak your feet in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water for 20-30 minutes daily.
Garlic: Garlic's antifungal properties can be enhanced by applying crushed garlic directly on nails or taking it orally as a supplement. However, its efficacy remains uncertain; conduct a patch test first to avoid irritation.
Vicks VapoRub: This over-the-counter remedy contains camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol and may have antifungal properties. Some people have reported improvements after applying Vicks VapoRub daily; simply apply a small amount onto affected nails twice daily to cover both nail and skin.
Coconut Oil: Rich in medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil has natural antifungal properties. Applying it to nails may reduce fungal growth and enhance their appearance. For best results, apply a small amount of coconut oil onto clean, dry nails twice daily for best results.
Oregano Oil: Containing thymol and carvacrol, oregano oil has antifungal properties. Dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it topically on affected nails daily; however, some people may experience irritation or an allergic reaction; therefore a patch test is advised before use.
Baking Soda: By absorbing moisture, baking soda may help prevent nail fungus from spreading. Mix equal parts baking soda and water together and apply the paste onto affected nails; leave on for 10-15 minutes, rinse it off, then thoroughly dry your nails.

Natural remedies can be effective, though results cannot be guaranteed. While some individuals may find relief through these treatments, others may need more sophisticated solutions for relief.

Laser Therapy for Proven Nail Fungus Removal

For those seeking a more advanced and effective treatment for nail fungus removal, Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic offers laser therapy. This procedure works by targeting fungal cells with focused light energy, ultimately eliminating them without harming surrounding tissue.

Benefits of laser therapy for nail fungus removal include:

High Success Rate: Clinical studies have demonstrated the high effectiveness of laser therapy for treating nail fungus, with success rates reaching up to 80%.
Minimal Side Effects: Laser therapy has far fewer side effects than oral medications and does not pose the risk of liver damage.
Fast and painless: Laser therapy is a quick, non-invasive, and nearly painless procedure that usually only needs several sessions to achieve optimal results.
Long-Term Benefits: With proper post-treatment care and hygiene, laser therapy can offer long-lasting relief from nail fungus.

Preventing Nail Fungus Recurrence

Prevention is key when it comes to nail fungus. Here are some practical strategies to reduce the chances of recurrence:

Maintain proper hygiene: Wash your hands and feet frequently, then make sure your nails are dry before wearing socks or shoes. This will help you prevent nail infections.
Maintain a Proper Nail Shape: Regularly trim your nails straight across and file the edges to keep your nail shape perfect.
Select Breathable Footwear: Look for footwear made of breathable materials that allow air circulation, decreasing the likelihood of a humid environment favorable to fungal growth.
Apply antifungal powders or sprays: Apply these products to your shoes and feet to protect them from fungal infections.
Avoid walking barefoot in public areas: Wear flip-flops or sandals when using communal showers, locker rooms, or swimming pools to reduce your chance of contracting nail fungus.

Conclusion

While natural remedies may provide some temporary relief to individuals suffering from nail fungus, their effectiveness and results cannot be guaranteed. For those seeking a more advanced and reliable treatment option, Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic's laser therapy is an excellent option. By understanding nail fungus, exploring natural remedies, and considering laser therapy as one option for removal needs, you can make an informed decision about which option is best suited for you.

Nail Fungus Removal Options: Surgical or Non-Surgical? What You Should Know

Introduction

Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is an epidemic condition affecting millions of people around the world. At Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic - a premier London dermatology practice - we often get asked whether surgical or non-surgical removal of nail fungus is best. In this comprehensive guide we'll review all available treatment options and explain why our Harley Street clinic should be your go-to choice for all nail fungus needs.

What Causes Nail Fungus?

Understanding Nail Fungus

Nail fungus is an infection caused by various microorganisms such as dermatophytes, yeasts and non-dermatophyte molds that thrive in warm, moist climates. These organisms can easily invade the nail through microscopic injuries or separation between its base and nail bed.

Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For:

Early signs of nail fungus include white or yellow spots under the tip, discolouration of the nail, thickening and crumbling at its edges. Treating this condition quickly is key in order to avoid permanent nail damage as well as infection spreading elsewhere on your body.

What Increases Your Risk for Nail Fungus?

Factors That May Increase Your Risk

Age: Older adults are especially vulnerable due to slower nail growth, reduced blood circulation and a longer history of exposure to fungal infections.
Sweating Abundantly: Prolonged perspiration can create a moist environment which fosters fungal growth.
History of athlete's Foot: Prior experience with athlete's foot can increase the risk for developing nail fungus.
Walking barefoot in damp communal areas: Public swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms can be breeding grounds for fungi.
Weakening Immune System: Conditions such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS can weaken the immune system, making it more vulnerable to fungal infections.
Wearing Closed-Toe Shoes: Shoes that do not allow adequate air circulation create a humid environment which fosters fungal growth.
Nail Injury: Damage to the nail or nail bed can provide a breeding ground for fungi.

To reduce the risk of nail fungus, practice proper foot hygiene by trimming nails and drying them thoroughly, as well as wearing breathable footwear.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Exploring Non-Surgical Nail Fungus Treatments

Topical medications: Over-the-counter anti-fungal creams, ointments, and lacquers can help eliminate infections when combined with oral medications. However, they tend to be less effective for nail fungus infections.
Oral Antifungal Medication: Prescription oral anti-fungals can help clear away infection by encouraging new, healthy nails to grow.
Laser for Nail Fungus Therapy: Laser therapy is an innovative non-invasive treatment option that targets the fungus beneath the nail without harming surrounding tissue. This procedure has shown promising results for stubborn infections. Typically, multiple sessions are necessary for optimal results and effectiveness may vary depending on how severe the infection.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): This treatment involves applying a photosensitising agent to the affected nail, followed by exposure to specific wavelengths of light. The light activates the photo-sensitiser, eliminating it from your nail bed. PDT may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
Home Remedies: Some people have reported success with home remedies such as tea tree oil, Vicks VapoRub and vinegar soaks for nail fungus. However, the effectiveness of these solutions varies considerably and they may not be suitable for severe cases.

Surgical Nail Fungus Treatments

When Surgery May Be Necessary

Nail Avulsion: This procedure involves the surgical removal of an affected nail to allow for direct application of topical antifungal medications. It's usually performed under local anesthesia and may be combined with oral anti fungals for enhanced effectiveness.
Nail matrixectomy: For more severe cases, partial or complete removal of the nail matrix (the area responsible for nail growth) may be necessary to prevent recurrent infections. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and may involve using chemical or laser agents to destroy or damage the nail matrix.
Debridement: In some cases, a healthcare professional may need to remove the thickened and crumbling portions of an infected nail in order to reduce pain and apply topical antifungal medications.

Before considering any treatment option, it is essential to speak with a qualified Revitalise London Dermatologist. Not all patients are suitable for surgical procedures, so make sure you discuss your concerns beforehand.

Selecting the Appropriate Treatment at Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic

Why Personalised Care Matters

At our Harley Street clinic, our team of expert dermatologists will assess your nail fungus infection and suggest the most suitable treatment option based on its severity and extent. We take great pride in offering personalised attention combined with advanced technologies for optimal results.

At your consultation, our Harley Street Dermatologists will perform a detailed examination of your nails and review your medical history to determine the most suitable treatment plan. We may also perform nail sample analysis to identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection, which can inform the selection of anti fungal medications.

Revitalise London: The best dermatology clinic

Expertise: Our highly-trained dermatologists possess decades of expertise treating various skin conditions, including nail fungus infections.
Advanced Treatments: Our selection of non-surgical and surgical treatment options allows you to receive the optimal care for your condition.
Personalised Care: At our clinic, we understand that each patient is unique and tailor our treatments to fit your individual needs and preferences.
Modern Harley Street Clinic with State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our modern Harley Street clinic is outfitted with the newest technology and equipment for your comfort and safety during treatment.
Patient Satisfaction: At Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic, we take great pride in delivering outstanding results and maintaining an impressive level of patient satisfaction. We constantly strive to improve our services and stay abreast of the newest advancements in dermatology.

Conclusion

Nail fungus removal can range from surgical to non-surgical procedures depending on the severity and individual needs. At Revitalise London Dermatology Clinic, our expert dermatologists will guide you through every step of the treatment process to help determine which option is best suited for your infection. If you're struggling with nail fungus and looking for a trusted London dermatology clinic, contact us today to book a consultation at our Harley Street location. Together, we can achieve healthier nails free from infections and restore your confidence!