Does over the counter nail fungus treatments work? This is a question that many people ask themselves. Nail fungus treatments that you can purchase over the counter at your local pharmacy or drugstore tend to offer either disappointing results or no results at all. If you suffer from this unsightly (and slightly embarrassing physical ailment) then there is a chance that you have tried several topical creams and lotions as well anti-fungal oral treatments. Many of these products carry a warning label that reads “Results May Vary” although the fact of the matter is that they really do not offer much help at all.
Why do Over the Counter Treatments for Nail Fungus not Work?
Nail fungus directly affects the finger or toenail of the person concerned. The yellow discoloration, cracks and flakes occur directly within the keratinized layers of the nail itself. Nails are, essentially, hydrophobic — they do not absorb water, in fact, they do whatever they can to repel it. Because of the lack of absorption, it seems fairly clear that lotions will not be able to penetrate the nail in order to get at the problem.
Will Oral Fungal Treatments Work?
On some rare occasions, oral fungal treatments may be able to do the trick. Unfortunately, this requires several trips to the doctor and several repeat prescriptions before any clear results are noticeable. Chances are that the infection will come back almost as soon as you have managed to get rid of the problem. The thing about nail fungus, is the fact that it is incredibly resilient. Once it manages to take hold, it does whatever it can to not let go.
What About Laser Treatment?
The fact of the matter is that laser treatment seems to be the only real solution to the problem. Where over the counter nail fungus treatment fails, laser treatment succeeds. The reason for this is the fact that the strength of the laser directly targeted at the bacteria and fungal agents is particularly strong. Nail fungus is most comfortable in moist, clammy, dark environments — shoes and socks are definitely a wonderful breeding ground. A laser is the complete antithesis of this type of environment, which makes it the perfect treatment. Many people are concerned that this type of treatment will be painful. However, the laser is directed at the nail only, which is a part of the human body that does not contain nerves.
Where You can Get the Best Treatment?
We at Clear Toes Clinic are dedicated to providing our patients with relief from the seemingly never-ending nightmare that accompanies toenail fungus. We use the Q-switched laser to get rid of toenail fungus permanently. Summer is just around the corner and if you want to wear comfortable open shoes, you should first get rid of the toenail fungus underneath your toenails. Contact us today for a free consultation.