Nail fungus can be quite hideous especially if you have been suffering from the condition for a while. It can leave the nails brittle, cracked and yellow. Fungal infection can look unhygienic especially if it affects the fingernails.
Although the condition is not life threatening, it should still be treated as soon as possible. Fungus can be very resistant to treatment and each person responds differently to each treatment method. One method is to kill nail fungus with bleach. There are various methods of applying bleach to nail fungus but which one is right for you?
How to Kill Nail Fungus with Bleach
Method #1
Mix one part of bleach to 10 parts of water in a spray bottle. Swirl or shake gently to thoroughly combine the mixture. Place your nails over a drop cloth. Spray the solution over the affected area. Let it stay for 10 to 15 minutes.
Using a nail brush, rub the area in a circular motion. Apply slight pressure so the fungus visible on the surface of the nails will be removed. Wear a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from excessive contact with bleach.
Rinse the affected area with hot water. Be sure to remove all bleach residues before wiping the area dry. Spray the affected area again with the bleach solution. Wipe off excess solution. Let it stay for a few hours so remaining spores will be killed. Rinse off again with hot water and wipe the area dry.
Method #2
This method is more applicable to moderate to severe nail fungus that has penetrated the nail bed and the surrounding area. Before applying bleach, cut short the affected nail as close as possible to the nail bed. File the affected nail so it becomes thin enough to be saturated by the bleach solution.
Add a tablespoon of bleach to a basin of warm water to make a foot or hand soak (1:100 ratios). Let the affected foot or hand sit inside the basin for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse the affected area with water and soap to remove any bleach residues. Dry the affected area thoroughly especially in between the toes.
Do this once a day for several weeks until signs of nail fungus clears. In case of skin irritation, reduce the frequency of foot or hand soak. Never apply pure bleach to affected area because it might cause skin irritation.
Method #3
This method involves a rather concentrated solution of bleach and water. It should be applied with precaution especially for those with sensitive skin, those who have diabetes or those who suffer adverse reaction to chlorine.
Combine one part of bleach to four parts of water. Using an eyedropper or medicine dropper, apply the solution to affected nail. Lift the nail as far as possible from the nail bed. Drip two to three drops of the solution and let it stay for 5 to 10 minutes. Be sure to wipe off excess bleach that comes in contact with the skin.
Special Precautions
Bleach contains chlorine and other harsh chemicals that can cause redness, rashes, itchiness and other forms of skin irritation. It should be applied with precaution especially to children, diabetic patients and those with sensitive skin.
Never mix bleach with ammonia because it can create fumes which are harmful when inhaled. Always ensure proper ventilation applying bleach solutions. Use rags or drop cloth to protect surfaces and furniture from the solution as it may cause discoloration.
Bleach may not be effective or suitable for everyone. It would be best to seek professional help from a podiatrist to select the most appropriate treatment for you. Never take your nails for granted. There are many alternatives to treating nail fungus. Prescription drugs and topical creams may be prescribed by the doctor. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is by far the best and most effective treatment method. For more information on this treatment option, contact Clear toes clinic.
