Game World!: can vicks vaporub get rid of toenail fungus?

Good Morning Kuya: Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

Nail fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails.

If your condition is mild and not bothering you, you may not need treatment. If your nail fungus is painful and has caused thickened nails, self-care steps and medications may help. But even if treatment is successful, nail fungus often comes back.

Nail fungus is also called onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis). When fungus infects the areas between your toes and the skin of your feet, it's called athlete's foot (tinea pedis).

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Book: Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies

Symptoms

You may have nail fungus if one or more of your nails are:

Thickened

Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration

Brittle, crumbly or ragged

Distorted in shape

A dark color, caused by debris building up under your nail

Smelling slightly foul

Nail fungus can affect fingernails, but it's more common in toenails.

When to see a doctor

You may want to see a physician if self-care steps haven't helped and the nail becomes increasingly discolored, thickened or deformed. Also see a doctor if you have diabetes and think you're developing nail fungus.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Causes

Mayo Clinic Minute - Health Precautions You Need to Know About Pedicures

Show transcript for video Mayo Clinic Minute - Health Precautions You Need to Know About Pedicures

Fungal nail infections are caused by various fungal organisms (fungi). The most common cause is a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Yeast and molds also can cause nail infections.

Fungal nail infection can develop in people at any age, but it's more common in older adults. As the nail ages, it can become brittle and dry. The resulting cracks in the nails allow fungi to enter. Other factors — such as reduced blood circulation to the feet and a weakened immune system — also may play a role.

Toenail fungal infection can start from athlete's foot (foot fungus), and it can spread from one nail to another. But it is uncommon to get an infection from someone else.

Risk factors

Factors that can increase your risk of developing nail fungus include:

Being older, owing to reduced blood flow, more years of exposure to fungi and slower growing nails

Sweating heavily

Having a history of athlete's foot

Walking barefoot in damp communal areas, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms

Having a minor skin or nail injury or a skin condition, such as psoriasis

Having diabetes, circulation problems or a weakened immune system

Complications

A severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. And it may lead to other serious infections that spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions.

Onychomycosis / laser nail fungus treatment, fungal toe nails - Dr Malik's Montreal Podiatry Center

If you have diabetes, you may have reduced blood circulation and nerve supply in your feet. You're also at greater risk of a bacterial skin infection (cellulitis). So any relatively minor injury to your feet — including a nail fungal infection — can lead to a more serious complication. See your doctor if you have diabetes and think you're developing nail fungus.

Prevention

The following habits can help prevent nail fungus or reinfections and athlete's foot, which can lead to nail fungus:

Wash your hands and feet regularly. Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Moisturize your nails after washing.

Trim nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.

Wear sweat-absorbing socks or change your socks throughout the day.

Choose shoes made of materials that breathe.

Discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders.

Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms.

Choose a nail salon that uses sterilized manicure tools for each customer.

Give up nail polish and artificial nails.

Toe Nail Fungus: Natural Remedies that WORK!

Understanding Tinea Unguium

Tinea unguium is a type of fungal infection. The fungus infects the fingernails and, more commonly, the toenails. It’s more common in men, older adults, and people who have diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or another health problem that weakens the immune system.

How to say it

TIN-ee-uh uhng-GWEE-uhm

What causes tinea unguium?

Tinea unguium is caused by a fungus. Several different types of fungus can grow on the nails.

The condition is much more likely to occur on the toenails. It can spread from one nail to another. You are more likely to get tinea unguium if you:

Have another fungal infection, such as athlete’s foot

Have sweaty feet

Share nail clippers with a person who has a fungal infection

Swim often

Walk barefoot in damp areas, such as locker rooms

Use communal or shared showers

What are the symptoms of tinea unguium?

If you have an infected nail, it may become:

Brittle

Thick

Hard

Discolored, yellow to brown

Irregular in shape

The nail may also have crumbling white or colored material under it.

If left untreated, the fungus may spread to the nail bed, which is the skin under the nail. The nail may

also fall off.

How is tinea unguium treated?

With proper treatment, tinea unguium may be cured. But it often takes several months as the nail grows.

Treatments include:

Good hygiene. Keep feet and nails clean and dry. If the infection is on the toenails, check that your shoes fit properly.

Medicine. Over-the-counter antifungal products, such as creams, may kill the fungus and ease symptoms. If you have a severe infection, or the infection won’t go away, you may need to take another medicine by mouth. Some of these oral medicines can have side effects and need to be used for 3 months.

Surgery. The nail may be removed. But there is a high chance the fungus will return.

Laser. A special type of laser directed at the nail itself can kill the fungus.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these:

Pain that gets worse

Symptoms that don’t get better, or get worse

New symptoms

Vapor Rub Could Help Treat Your Toe Fungus!

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, is a common nail condition affecting millions of people in the United States. Fungal nail infections can develop on the nail from various organisms such as molds, yeasts, and fungi. This usually occurs after these organisms come into contact with a cracked nail or skin surrounding the nail as the opening provides a portal of entry for these organisms.

Risk factors

When your feet sweat or remain moist or damp, the opportunity for the fungus to grow on your toenails increases. Frequent exposure to warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, locker rooms, or even living in a humid climate places you more at risk of developing these types of infections. This is also why these infections seem to be more prevalent during the summer months.

Men have been known to develop these types of infections more than women as well as individuals with weakened immune systems—people with diabetes, poor circulation, and older adults. Individuals who frequent nail salons may also be placing themselves at risk of developing and spreading fungal infections to their feet. Evidence of a toenail infection includes discoloration in nail color which may be white, yellow, brown, or even black. The nail may become thickened, which makes it difficult for you to care for the nail on your own. Foul odor, brittleness, or even complete separation of the nail from the nail bed may occur.

Diagnosis

In order to confirm a toenail fungus, your doctor will first evaluate your feet. They may also decide to perform a culture where samples of the nail or skin may be taken for further evaluation at a laboratory. Because there are other causes of nail changes (psoriasis, microtrauma, poor nutrition, staining from nail polish), this is a vital step in picking the most appropriate treatment.

16 best home remedies for toenail fungus

A variety of treatment options for toenail fungus are available, including drug-free alternatives, over-the-counter medicine, prescription drugs, laser treatment, or even surgical removal for those severe cases. Most people start with items they have around the house before purchasing medication or visiting their doctor’s office. These treatments are most effective in mild fungal cases.

Unfortunately, there are no “quick fixes” when it comes to treating nail fungus. This is because a new toenail must grow to replace the old, damaged toenail. Typically, this takes anywhere from nine to 12 months to regrow the entire big toenail and approximately six months for the lesser toenails. This time frame varies on how fast or slow your toenails grow and how severe the fungal infection is. Many home remedies quickly improve the appearance of the nail, but the actual fungus is not gone until the new, healthy nail has replaced the old, damaged one.

Try some of these effective home remedies for toenail fungus:

Weekly maintenance

Clean socks and shoes

Hydrogen peroxide

Black tea

Vinegar

Baking soda

Epsom salt

Essential oils

Ozonated oils

Olive leaf extract

Snakeroot extract

Zinc

Garlic

Cornmeal

Diet changes

Exercise

1. Weekly maintenance

First, prepare your nails for treatment by trimming and filing them once a week. Clipping toenails relieves pressure on the nails and helps antifungal solutions penetrate the nail. Use traditional toenail clippers and an Emory board to keep nails short and thin. Make sure to disinfect utensils after each use. Maintaining trimmed, clean, and dry nails will be essential in treating toenail fungus and preventing it in the future.

2. Clean socks and shoes

Regularly changing your socks and shoes can also cut down on the growth of unwanted foot fungus. Both socks and athletic shoes can be washed in hot water to rid the growth of yeasts and fungi that may be growing on the fabric. Adding a half-cup of baking soda or one cup of vinegar to the washing machine can help eliminate bacteria or fungus on socks or shoes. Some shoes can be machine dried. Drying shoes in the sun is another option when cleaning footwear.

Boots and other footwear that are not machine washable could be wiped out with a vinegar and water solution or sprayed with an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal spray. Medicated powders are also helpful in treating shoes for foot fungus.

Allowing the feet to breathe by taking off shoes and socks when possible can prevent fungal growth. Protect your feet by wearing breathable footwear and clean socks. Antimicrobial socks and shoes made from bamboo, copper, or specialty fabrics are also available. They can help reduce unwanted bacteria and yeast from growing in your footwear.

How to Cure Nail Fungus

A proactive approach to keeping your feet clean and dry can prevent the spread of toenail fungus. You can wash or soak feet with warm soapy water or a foot bath using everyday household items. Soaking your feet in an all-natural, homeopathic concoction can be beneficial in reducing or eliminating toenail fungus.

3. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus that grows on toenails. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used in a foot soak. Mix 1/8 cup of hydrogen peroxide (or several capfuls) to four cups of cool water and soak feet for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse feet with warm water and pat dry.

4. Black tea

Soaking feet in plain tea can also be beneficial in treating toenail or foot fungus. Black tea contains tannic acid that dries out the feet, kills bacteria, and helps to close the foot’s pores to reduce sweating. Boil two quarts of water then add five to six tea bags. Allow the tea to cool and soak feet for 30 minutes. Use this foot soak daily if desired.

5. Apple cider vinegar

Another home remedy to treat toenail fungus includes the use of apple cider vinegar. Vinegar is an antifungal ingredient that can be mixed with water to create a foot soak. It’s acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection to other toes. Try two parts vinegar to one part warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily. For a more potent foot soak, the ratio could be one part vinegar to one part water. If the smell is too overwhelming, essential oils can be added to make the experience more pleasant. White vinegar can be used as an alternative as both are equally effective.

6. Baking soda

Add baking soda to a foot soak to heal the affected nail. You can also make a paste of baking soda with a minimal amount of water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry the foot thoroughly.

Baking soda can also be sprinkled onto the foot or in the shoes like foot powder. Once applied to a dry foot, put on clean socks; the baking soda can wick away moisture while healing properties work to reduce toenail fungus.

7. Epsom salt

Soaking feet in an Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) bath can be beneficial to relieve your foot fungus. You can mix one cup of Epsom salt to two quarts of warm to hot water and soak your feet for 10 to 20 minutes. You could also try a more elaborate Epsom salt concoction that includes:

4 cups warm to hot water

1/2 cup Epsom salt

1/2 cup baking soda

1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide

1/4 cup vinegar

Mix all of the ingredients and soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes. Essential oils are a great addition to foot baths. Essential oils with healing properties to treat foot fungus are listed below. Following your foot soak, rinse your feet with clean water and pat dry with a clean towel. To avoid contaminating clean feet, put on clean socks and breathable shoes following your foot bath.

8. Essential oils

Essential oils are gaining popularity in homeopathic treatment to heal a variety of common ailments. Many essential oils have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some essential oils that could help reduce toenail fungus include:

Tea tree oil

Clove oil

Clary sage oil

Jasmine oil

Lavender oil

Ylang-ylang oil

Eucalyptus oil

Cinnamon oil

Lemon oil

Lemongrass oil

Thieves oil

Wild oregano oil

Jojoba oil

Manuka tree oil

Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, before applying them to the skin. Mix the desired oil or combination of oils with a carrier oil of your choice and apply a few drops to the affected nail. As previously mentioned, you can also add two to three drops of essential oils to footbaths.

Fungus of the Toenail -- 3 Treatment Tips

9. Ozonated oils

Ozonated oils, such as olive and sunflower oil, contain ozone gas. The idea is that ozone delivers oxygen to the affected areas, which kills bacteria and stimulates skin cells for faster healing. One study found that ozonated oil is an effective home remedy for toenail fungus. Researchers tested ozonized sunflower oil on 101 samples of yeast. The oil was an effective treatment against several fungal strains. To try this remedy, clean and dry your foot first. Gently massage a small amount of ozonated oil into the skin, working it into the affected nails and around the entire toe.

10. Olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract contains oleuropein, which is a natural antifungal and antimicrobial. A salve made from the olive leaf can be applied to the toenails to reduce infection. You may also swallow capsules containing the extract to boost the immune system and treat toenail fungus systemically. Approximately two olive leaf extract capsules can be taken twice a day for an extended period. Consult your healthcare provider before taking olive leaf extract.

11. Snakeroot extract

Snakeroot extract, made from plants in the sunflower family, is an all-natural antifungal homeopathic treatment also used to treat toenail fungus. Commonly used in Ayurvedic practices in India, snakeroot extract can be applied directly to the affected toenail. Apply the extract two to three times a week for several months. Ask your healthcare provider if snakeroot extract is right for your type of foot fungus.

12. Zinc

Zinc oxide is a mineral that can treat fungal infections. As a skin protectant, miconazole-zinc oxide can be sprayed or applied to the affected area to fight infection and reduce signs of foot fungus. Check with your provider to see if adding zinc to your foot care regimen is right for you.

13. Garlic

Garlic is a potent antimicrobial plant. For topical treatment, chop cloves of garlic and leave it on the affected nails for 30 minutes. Use raw garlic sparingly, as it can result in a chemical burn.

Ask a pharmacist about herbal supplements that contain garlic. These supplements can be taken orally to not only treat skin infections but also high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and prevent tick bites. Garlic supplements should not be taken by people with stomach ulcers, digestion problems, or bleeding disorders. It might also make birth control pills less effective. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking oral garlic supplements.

14. Cornmeal

Cornmeal has some antifungal properties. You can try applying cornmeal as a paste or a soak. For a paste, dissolve cornmeal in warm water in a shallow pan. Let the paste cool before using it on your feet. Let it sit for an hour. As a soak, add an inch of cornmeal to a shallow container. Pour an inch of warm water on top of the cornmeal, letting the cornmeal and water mix naturally for an hour. Then, add enough warm water to cover your entire foot and let it soak for an hour. You can try cornmeal as a weekly home remedy for toenail fungus.

15. Diet

Your current diet could be feeding fungus caused by Candida overgrowth. Here are some diet changes you can make to starve the yeast and improve toenail fungus:

Cut out sugar

Don’t drink alcohol

Limit your carbohydrates to one cup a day

Cook with coconut oil

Incorporate ginger and garlic

Supplement with a probiotic

16. Exercise

Regular exercise can expedite the healing process. As blood pumps faster through the body, it releases natural vitamins and flushes toxins. Just be sure to practice proper hygiene to avoid making toenail fungus worse. Wear socks that wick away excess moisture, use antifungal foot powder, remove shoes immediately after a workout to let feet breathe, and wear flip-flops or sandals in shower rooms or pools. Remember to wash your feet with antibacterial soap and completely dry your feet after your shower.

Unsafe home remedies for toenail fungus

Although there are many effective home remedies for toenail fungus, there are still some natural and household products that can cause more harm than good. For example, you should never use bleach to get rid of toenail fungus. Its use may be toxic to the skin and cause severe skin irritation when not used properly.

Additionally, you should never use overly hot water when performing the variety of foot soaks mentioned above. Excessive heat to the nails and skin will not kill fungus—and extreme temperatures may injure the skin causing burns, blisters, and sometimes permanent skin damage. Always use lukewarm water for soaking.

Urine is another home remedy that should be avoided. Previously, it had been believed to be effective against fungal infections due to its urea contents. While urea is needed for the management of nail fungus, urine does not have high enough concentrations to be effective.

Does vapor rub cure toenail fungus?

And, finally, do not remove or excessively trim toenails at home. Fungal toenails should be properly trimmed and maintained on a regular basis, but do not remove too much nail. If toenail clipping or removal is not done properly, damage to the nail bed may cause additional injury to the nail, which can be irreversible. There also is the risk of causing bacterial infections when the damaged nail is not removed properly.

If the natural remedies for toenail fungus listed above do not work, there are other effective treatments for toenail fungus available at the drugstore.

Over-the-counter toenail fungus treatment options

While home treatments can be the cure you are looking for to treat toenail fungus, they’re not regulated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, sprays, and even medicated nail polish are available. Home remedies can often enhance the efficacy of these products.

Vicks VapoRub

One of the more popular over-the-counter remedies for treating toenail fungus is using Vicks VapoRub. Mentholated salves contain the natural ingredients menthol, eucalyptus oil, and camphor. Use Vicks alone or in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Clean feet and apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub daily.

Listerine

Soaking an infected nail in the OTC product Listerine can also help reduce or kill toenail fungus. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine applied to the affected toe or toenail for 20 minutes twice a day can effectively reduce signs of onychomycosis.

Athlete’s foot medication

Athlete’s foot sprays, powders, and creams are helpful in stopping fungal growth before it develops on the toenail or surrounding flesh. Brand-name products that you can purchase without a prescription include Tinactin (tolnaftate), Micatin (miconazole), Lamisil (terbinafine), and Lotrimin AF (clotrimazole). Ask a pharmacist at your local drugstore which is the best medication for your symptoms.

RELATED: Athlete’s foot treatments and medications

Toenail fungus prescription medications

Sometimes prescription medications are needed to treat a toenail infection that just won’t go away with natural remedies or over-the-counter medication in a few months. In this case, prescription-strength antifungal medication can eradicate stubborn onychomycosis.

Topical antifungal medications often are effective in treating mild to moderate toenail fungus. Topical solutions may include medicated nail polishes or liquid medications. Loprox (ciclopirox), Penlac (ciclopirox), Kerydin (tavaborole), and Jublia (efinaconazole) are among the top prescription drugs for toenail fungus. Some topical treatments require you to file down the surface of the nail to help the treatment get through to the nail bed.

Oral antifungal medications can come in capsules, tablets, or liquid. Some common prescriptions are Diflucan (fluconazole), Lamisil (terbinafine), Onmel (itraconazole), and Sporanox (itraconazole).

Side effects of toenail fungus medication

One of the many benefits of using a homeopathic remedy is that there are little to no adverse side effects. Topical treatments often prescribed to treat toenail fungus can potentially burn or blister the skin. Oral medications for treating onychomycosis can cause liver or gastrointestinal damage. Be sure to read your medication’s list of potential side effects. Consult your pharmacist, healthcare provider, or specialist if you are concerned about side effects of prescription drugs.

The Right Way To Use Vicks Vaporub for Toenail Fungus - Toenail Fungus Cure

When to see a doctor about toenail fungus

If you are experiencing persistent toenail fungus or pain is present, you may need to see a specialist. A dermatologist or podiatrist may be able to assess your symptoms and send a small sample of the affected toenail or flesh to a laboratory to be analyzed as there are various types of fungi and yeasts that cause onychomycosis. Knowing the specific cause of your foot fungus can help identify what route to take to treat your condition.

Nail changes can also be caused by underlying conditions, like psoriasis and diabetes, so it’s important to seek professional medical advice if your condition persists or worsens. Bacterial and fungal infection of skin in diabetes patients often result in hospital admissions, and in severe cases, can result in amputations. If you are at a higher risk for infection, you should skip home remedies and seek professional medical treatment.

Vicks Vapor Rub Toenail Fungus Treatment: This simple treatment method requires only a couple of things that are readily available at home!

Look:

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that can cause toenails to become thick, brittle, and yellow in appearance. This condition is caused by fungal microorganisms infecting the nail itself as well as the nailbed underneath. Using the medicated chest rub Vicks® for toenail fungus is a common home remedy that has not been scientifically proven as a toenail fungus cure, but is supported by anecdotal evidence and some limited scientific studies. When using Vicks® as a home remedy for toenail fungus, the ointment is usually applied to the infected nail once or twice per day, and the nail is then covered with a bandage, gauze, or a pair of clean socks. The makers of Vicks® VapoRub® do not advocate its use as a toenail fungus home remedy, and it is advisable to consult a doctor before beginning any treatments.

Some people believe that using Vicks for toenail fungus can actually worsen the condition.

Specific instructions for how to use Vicks® for toenail fungus vary, but often involve soaking the infected foot in hot or warm water for 20 minutes or more, usually before bedtime. The foot should then be thoroughly dried. It is possible to apply the VapoRub® without soaking the foot, but the water is thought to make the nails and skin absorb the treatment more effectively. Filing the affected nail gently with an emory board, and cleaning it with hydrogen peroxide is sometimes recommended before applying Vicks®. After the entire nail and surrounding skin has been covered with Vicks®, the treated area can be covered with sterile gauze or similar item or one can put on a pair of clean, dry socks to avoid staining sheets and other items.

The eucalyptus oil in Vicks has been shown to have anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.

Some people believe that using Vicks® for toenail fungus can worsen the condition rather than help it, because covering the infected nail provides the fungus with a moist, warm environment that can promote more fungal growth. However, some limited scientific studies do show that some of the ingredients in Vicks® can have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Specifically, the eucalyptus oil, camphor, menthol, and thymol in Vicks® have been shown to have such properties.

It is important to consult with a doctor before beginning any treatments for toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus usually takes a long time to clear up, whether prescription medication or home remedies are used to treat it. When using Vicks® for toenail fungus, one can expect improvement to take at least several weeks and usually several months. Vicks® should not be used for children under 12 without consulting a doctor, and Vicks® VapoRub® should not be used at all on children under 2.

Vick’s vapor rub can help your toenail fungus if used properly.

We are foot doctors, and we see toenail fungus getting better every day!

We go over videos & pictures for toenail fungus treatment and how to get your nails better!

So make sure you are preparing your toenails properly for good toenail fungus treatment and relief!

So, let’s GO!

How to prevent and treat nail fungus

Table of Contents

Best Toenail Fungus Home Remedies Video:

Causes of Thick Toenail Fungus:

Toenail Fungus Picture Gallery:

How Does Vick’s Vapor Rub Work?

How To Use Vick’s Vapor Rub For Toenail Fungus?

The Keys To Curing Toenail Fungus with Vicks Vapor Rub:

Home Treatment Guide:

Consider Athlete’s Foot Fungus Treatment:

Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis) Treatment & Cure Infographic:

Toenail Fungus Home Treatment:

How to fix toenail fungus:

Recommended foot fungus products:

Best Toenail Fungus Clippers & Files:

Best Toenail Fungus Polish and Remover:

Best Shoes For Toenail Injuries:

Best Antifungal Moisture Wicking Socks:

Best Toenail Fungus Home Remedies Video:

This video goes over Vick’s vapor rub and toenail fungus treatment at home.

Causes of Thick Toenail Fungus:

toenail fungus onychomycosis toenail infection

Toenail Fungus Picture Gallery:

This gallery shows different types of toenail fungus.

Look:

The most common type is called subungual onychomycosis. This is when the toenail fungus gets underneath the toenail and lifts the nail.

This can cause damage to the toenail bed, preventing future attachment of the toenail.

It is also possible to get superficial white onychomycosis. This is the buildup of white superficial fungus on top of the toenail.

If you just removed your toenail polish, this may not be fungus. It may be something called keratin granulations.

This may not be fungus if you have white horizontal lines or white horizontal ridges on your toenails.

It is also possible to get it throughout the entire nail, or the nail is destroyed and is dead.

The good news is these are all very treatable!

So click on the photos for gallery mode & description!

Home Remedy Cure for Toenail Fungus | The Best Nail Fungus Treatment Cure with Vicks VapoRub

toenail fungus ingrown toenail: 5 types of toenail injury.

Structure and anatomy of human toenail

Anatomy of a fingernail and toenail.

Three stages of development of fungal infection on nail of the toe

Different types of toenail disease. Note: this is not a comprehensive list!

Ingrown toenail vs impacted toenail graph. This is called a pincer ingrown toenail.

White nails: Superficial white onychomycosis, white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus. This toenail has horizontal ridges and horizontal white lines.

White nails: Superficial white onychomycosis, white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus.

White spots under the toenails keratin granulations

White nails: white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus

White Chalky toenails after removing toenail polish.

Keratin Granulations with white spots on toenails

White Spots & White Chalky nails from toenail polish

Keratin Granulations or Nail Fungus?

White streaks and keratin granulations

White Chalky Toenails From Nail Polish

Keratin granulations after removing toenail polish.

Toenail fungus after removing toenail polish

Black toenail hematoma. The right great toenail is lifting.

White nails: Superficial white onychomycosis, white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus.

Subungual hematoma with blood and black toenail.

Yellow toenail fungus onychomycosis

White nails: Superficial white onychomycosis, white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus.

White dry skin after removing toenail polish. Leukonychia.

Ingrown toenail with pus

White nails: Superficial white onychomycosis, white spots, white marks & white toenail fungus.

Toenail psoriasis and nail pitting. Fingernail psoriasis.

less bad #6

Ingrown toenail without pus

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Click on pictures for full size & descriptions:

WILL VICK’S VAPORUB KILL TOENAIL FUNGUS!?

Toenail Fungus Treatment Guide – Overview:

Do you want to cure toenail fungus as quickly as possible?

There is really just one SECRET!

The secret is that the discolored toenail is already dead. You have to trim it and file it down.

The more you can groom and leave only blood flow-rich toenails, the better and faster you will heal.

Don’t waste time and money trying to heal detached and destroyed toenail tissue.

Please clean it up and start from good health and still alive toenail.

If you can do that, any one of these products or even Vick’s Vapor Rub will work great on your discolored yellow and thick toenails.

White Toenails from Nail Polish: Causes & Best Treatment

After trimming back the initial thick toenails covered with toenail polish, we can see many keratin granulations and white spots built up here. This will need the removal of toenail polish and further care!

Consider these recommended products for your toenail fungus:

It would help if you still considered Vick’s Vapor Rub. It works great.

These are just some other effective alternative options for your yellow crumbling toenails!

Best Toenail Repair Products:

Best Toenail Repair Pen.

Top Choice For Direct Toenail Application.

Top Choice For Cream For Toenails & Webspaces.

Great Option For Foot Soak.

Great Tea Tree Oil Treatment

Ariella Nail Fungus Treatment for Toenail and Fingernail, Maximum Strength Antifungal Nail Treatment Hydrates, Renews Yellow, Cracked and Split Nails

NZ Country 100% Manuka Essential Oil More Effective Than Tea Tree Oil for Skin Conditions like Infected Cuts, Rashes, Acne, Finger and Toe Nail Discoloration, Tinea Boils Roseca etc

Foot Finish Foot Repair Cream for Athletes Foot Treatment - 4oz Foot Cream for Dry Cracked Feet - Tea Tree Toenail Treatment - Powerful, Natural Anti Itch Cream with Tea Tree, Rose & Lavender Essential Oils

Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak with Epsom Salt - Made in USA - for Toenail Fungus, Athletes Foot, Stubborn Foot Odor Scent, Fungal, Softens Calluses & Soothes Sore Tired Feet - 16 Ounces

Naturenics Tea Tree Essential Oil-100% USDA Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia Therapeutic Grade- Natures Solution For Acne, Toenail, Lice, Hair, Face, Skin Problems-Roll On & eBook-1 Fl Oz

Price:

$19.99

$19.90

$12.99

$16.97

$22.99

Overview:

4 Pens with quick dry application that leaves a sealing lid on top. Easy to store and apply. Key is still to trim/file the toenail first!

All natural option that is toxic to fungus. This is similar to tea tree oil in that respect but can be more effective. You still need to exfoliate dead skin and trim thick toenails.

All natural cream option. This is a good option compared to some of the quick dry gels. This can be used on the skin surrounding your toenails.

Safe, cost effective and relaxing all at the same time! This needs to be used in a 20 minute foot soak. Works well for exfoliating loose skin/toenail as well as softening.

Tea Tree Oil is well studied and an all natural anti-fungal treatment.

Pros:

Easy to use, quick drying. This fills into the cracks and seals them with minimal mess. This is great for sealing even dehydrated keratin granulations.

All natural, relatively cost effective. 1,000s of reviews with excellent results. Very clean and quick drying, easy to apply.

Relatively cost effective. All natural tea tree oil that is proven toxic to fungus. Can be used on surrounding skin as well.

Very safe, little risk, low cost and very effective if used correctly. The key is to use it as an aid to soften and exfoliate loose/dry dead skin and toenail.

Great reviews at 4.7/5 at 500+ overall reviews. Well proven and natural option.

Cons:

0% chance of working if your toenail is loose and has no blood supply. Make sure you trim and file any loose finger or toenail. Otherwise “0% CHANCE OF WORKING!” You cannot restore a dead toenail without blood flow.

Small amount and a little more expensive than some other options. Once more has 0% chance of working if your goal is to heal a dead, detached toenail or dry skin. Are you noticing this is a trend? This is really the key!

Still more expensive than other options. Can get messy all over different areas of your foot. Key is still debride and cleaning your dry dead toenails and skin. TRIM them!

It once more has 0% chance working if you are trying to save loose and dead crusty skin. Fungus will always grow on this if no blood flow. It can not regenerate dead skin, only exfoliate it.

Not the greatest amount of solution, the all natural solutions can be more expensive.

Crucial Tips:

There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!

Although tea tree oil does nave studies and is antifungal, it is not an FDA approved medication and not studied for this specific use.

Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Buy on Amazon

How Does Vick’s Vapor Rub Work?

Vick’s Vapor Rub contains the ingredients Camphor (4.8%), Thymol (1.2%), and Menthol (2.6%), which have all been shown to all fight against toenail fungus in some research studies.

A Spanish study states that Vick’s Vapor rub is very effective.

The Mayo Clinic admits that while many people vouch for this treatment method, it is difficult to prove that Vick’s Vapor Rub has a great deal of effectiveness.

Anecdotal from our standpoint is that it can definitely kill fungus if used correctly!

Vicks Vapor Rub Toenail Fungus Home Treatment

Vicks vapor rub is a great treatment for toenail fungus. The key is to trim the toenails as much as possible before applying it! Otherwise, it can’t heal already dead toenails.

How To Use Vick’s Vapor Rub For Toenail Fungus?

There is an under 40% chance that this method will work on your fungal nails alone, but the odds can increase to perhaps even 50-80% if:

Meet a Toenail Fungus Expert

The area of nail involvement is under 50% of the total nail surface.

There is no ingrowing of the nails into the skin edges.

The nail is not painful.

The skin under and around the nail still looks normal and has not yet become thick.

No White/yellow or orange/brown streaks in the nail exist.

Keratin Granulations or Nail Fungus?

The white chalky substance underneath the toenail here is actually keratin granulations. Once we trimmed these nails, they were very healthy underneath. The patient was doing well!

The Keys To Curing Toenail Fungus with Vicks Vapor Rub:

If you follow this treatment guide, you can get as close to 100% if you follow this guide!

The supplies in this list can find all of these supplies very easily at home:

Nail File, emery board, or nail file.

Vick’s Vapor Rub.

Socks.

1-3 months to kill the fungus.

6-9 months for complete nail regrowth. (Seriously!).

Home Treatment Guide:

1)Trim and file the nail down before you try any treatment!

Studies show that using an emery board to file your nails down in length and thickness increases the effectiveness of all of the following treatments by 15-25%, which is actually huge if you only have a 40% of working in the first place!

The nail fungus has been shown to create a thick impenetrable layer of bio-film covering your toenail that prevents topical medications and treatments from entering the nail bed.

Research states that as you thin down your nails with an emery board or a pumice stone, as described in treatment section #1 above, you gain a 15-25% increased chance of the following treatments working for you.

This means medications have to travel a smaller distance and have less resistance in the distance that they do travel.

So trim your nails before the following treatments are tried!

2)Apply Vick’s, Vapor Rub:

Apply Vick’s vapor rub onto the affected toenails on top of the nail and around the nail edges, both on the sides and the front.

Try to smear it into the toenail.

3)Consider using socks:

Then put some socks over it, so it does not get onto your sheets.

This is not essential. This is mostly a cosmetic benefit.

4)Use it daily:

If you miss a night, it’s not a big deal, but try to use it consistently.

The goal is to rub it onto your nail every night before you go to bed.

5)4+ weeks shows most benefit:

You must do this for at least 6 weeks to 12 weeks minimum to eradicate the fungus from your nails!

6)Toenails grow slow:

The nails then need 6-9 months to grow out.

A toenail grows on average 1.5mm per month.

This is a long, slow and painful process. Just be persistent!

7)Watch the treatment video:

Follow the complete toenail fungus treatment guide to find out how to get the nail healthy faster!

The Complete Toenail Fungus Treatment Guide!

Other Related Nail Problems:

How to get rid and prevent toenail fungus?

See if any of these other problems apply to your situation!

Toenail Fungus

Very Long Toenails

Ingrown Toenail

Toenail Falling Off

Black Streaks Under The Nails

White Patches On Toenails

Black Spot Under The Toenail

Red Spot Under The Toenail

Toenail Coming Off The Nail Bed

Toenail Psoriasis

Consider Athlete’s Foot Fungus Treatment:

If you have toenail fungus, it is also important to treat your athlete’s foot fungus.

Even if you cure your toes, it can simply cross back onto your toes, don’t let that happen!

Vick’s Vapor rub can work well on foot fungus as well.

These are great alternative products.

If not treated, the fungus can come right back onto your toenails.

Products are listed below.

Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis) Treatment & Cure Infographic:

Toenail Fungus Treatment cure

Toenail Fungus Home Treatment:

These are our favorite products to treat toenail fungus at home.

It is difficult to properly diagnose any health problem such as toenail fungus with 100% certainty. So see your podiatrist and make sure you are not missing anything!

Also, many of these products are considered beauty products more so than health products. Just be aware that they are not always FDA evaluated or approved in any way.

How to fix toenail fungus:

There are many different types of toenail damage.

In our experience, about easily 50% or more is related to toenail fungus.

The key to toenail fungus is to trim it as much as possible and file that nail down vertically and length-wise.

If you can do that, you have to make sure you can kill fungus the rest of the way with creams and topical medication.

The best way to do that is to soak exfoliate the affected toenail skin. So, foot soaks can be a strong anti-fungus solution.

At the same time, you have to apply anti-fungal medication such as these medications evaluated here or the toenail repair pens.

Best Toenail Repair Products:

Best Toenail Repair Pen.

Top Choice For Direct Toenail Application.

Top Choice For Cream For Toenails & Webspaces.

Great Option For Foot Soak.

Great Tea Tree Oil Treatment

Ariella Nail Fungus Treatment for Toenail and Fingernail, Maximum Strength Antifungal Nail Treatment Hydrates, Renews Yellow, Cracked and Split Nails

NZ Country 100% Manuka Essential Oil More Effective Than Tea Tree Oil for Skin Conditions like Infected Cuts, Rashes, Acne, Finger and Toe Nail Discoloration, Tinea Boils Roseca etc

Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak with Epsom Salt - Made in USA - for Toenail Fungus, Athletes Foot, Stubborn Foot Odor Scent, Fungal, Softens Calluses & Soothes Sore Tired Feet - 16 Ounces

Naturenics Tea Tree Essential Oil-100% USDA Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia Therapeutic Grade- Natures Solution For Acne, Toenail, Lice, Hair, Face, Skin Problems-Roll On & eBook-1 Fl Oz

Price:

$19.99

$19.90

$12.99

$16.97

$22.99

Overview:

4 Pens with quick dry application that leaves a sealing lid on top. Easy to store and apply. Key is still to trim/file the toenail first!

All natural option that is toxic to fungus. This is similar to tea tree oil in that respect but can be more effective. You still need to exfoliate dead skin and trim thick toenails.

All natural cream option. This is a good option compared to some of the quick dry gels. This can be used on the skin surrounding your toenails.

Safe, cost effective and relaxing all at the same time! This needs to be used in a 20 minute foot soak. Works well for exfoliating loose skin/toenail as well as softening.

Tea Tree Oil is well studied and an all natural anti-fungal treatment.

Pros:

Easy to use, quick drying. This fills into the cracks and seals them with minimal mess. This is great for sealing even dehydrated keratin granulations.

All natural, relatively cost effective. 1,000s of reviews with excellent results. Very clean and quick drying, easy to apply.

Relatively cost effective. All natural tea tree oil that is proven toxic to fungus. Can be used on surrounding skin as well.

Very safe, little risk, low cost and very effective if used correctly. The key is to use it as an aid to soften and exfoliate loose/dry dead skin and toenail.

Great reviews at 4.7/5 at 500+ overall reviews. Well proven and natural option.

Cons:

Still more expensive than other options. Can get messy all over different areas of your foot. Key is still debride and cleaning your dry dead toenails and skin. TRIM them!

It once more has 0% chance working if you are trying to save loose and dead crusty skin. Fungus will always grow on this if no blood flow. It can not regenerate dead skin, only exfoliate it.

Not the greatest amount of solution, the all natural solutions can be more expensive.

Crucial Tips:

There is some evidence that these active ingredients work, just be aware: These are not FDA approved and massively studied medications!

Although tea tree oil does nave studies and is antifungal, it is not an FDA approved medication and not studied for this specific use.

Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Buy on Amazon

Recommended foot fungus products:

It is also vital to fix your foot fungus.

Athlete’s feet can be beneficial to remove from the foot because if left unchecked, they can quickly spread back to the toenails even if they are fixed.

Even if you cure your toenail fungus, keep your toenails trimmed in healthy: your foot fungus can spread back into toenails.

So make sure you treat your foot fungus, as well as your toenail fungus.

Table could not be displayed.

What is the best way to treat your nail fungus?

Best Toenail Fungus Clippers & Files:

You have to be careful using at home, and definitely be safe and don’t use these if you have dangerous health conditions.

It is important to see a podiatrist for foot evaluation and care if you have continued health care issues or problems with your feet.

These are some great value heavy-duty clippers and sets.

The key is to cut straight across and file the nail down from the top to keep it from impinging in the corners.

It is also important to make sure all dead, dry skin is removed surrounding the foot.

This is where you should really see your podiatrist if you have any concerns or are worried about cutting or hurting yourself.

This is something covered, so don’t take chances with your health!

Best Grooming Supplies

Best Value Clipping Set

Best Value Heavy Duty Clipper Set

Heavy Duty Non-Scissor Clipper

Nail Clippers Sets High Precisio Stainless Steel Nail Cutter Pedicure Kit Nail File Sharp Nail Scissors and Clipper Manicure Pedicure Kit Fingernails & Toenails with Portable stylish case (Black)

Norchan Large Nail Clippers Set, 3 Pcs Sharp Toenail and Fingernail Clippers for Men and Women (Premium, Big Size, Heavy-Duty Design)

KOHM Nail Clippers for Thick Nails - Heavy Duty, Wide Mouth Professional Fingernail and Toenail Clippers for Men, Women & Seniors, Silver

Price:

$15.99

$24.99

$13.99

Overview:

This is the Amazon best overall rated value set: Great Reviews and cost.

Value heavy duty clipper, nail file and currette for scooping under the nail.

Great alternative choice for heavy duty clipper if difficulty cutting with the other one.

Pros:

4.4/5 ratings at almost 800+ ratings. Multi-tool set that should be adequate for most people.

4.7/5 reviews with 200+ reviews. Strong clipper with files and currette, everything you need!

Excellent reviews, 4.8/5 with 600+ reviews. Some people prefer this grip

Cons:

It won’t work for heavy duty thickness. It can be dangerous clipping if you have health conditions.

It is still not perfect if you can’t reach your foot. See your podiatrist if health conditions.

No currette and no nail file, so you may need this.

Crucial Tips:

If your toenails are too thick and if you have dangerous health conditions, see your podiatrist for your toenail fungus!

If you have health conditions, be very safe at home, this can be a risky treatment! Be very safe.

Make sure to see your podiatrist if you have metabolic or blood flow conditions! Be safe if you can’t reach.

Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Buy on Amazon

Best Toenail Fungus Polish and Remover:

There is some great toenail fungus polish options and polish removal options.

There are no acetone-based toenail polish removers, they don’t dry as quickly, but they are less like a dehydrator toenail.

This also applies to your fingernails and hands.

The benefits of using these non-toxic toenail polishes are that they are filled with non-fungal options such as tea tree oil, preventing toenail fungus.

These can also work well for the fingernails.

So great combo is to use one of these healthier toenail paint options, as well as a non-acetone-based toenail polish remover.

Non-Toxic Toenail Polish

Great Non-Acetone Toenail Polish Remover

Great Clear Topcoat & Anti-fungal Toenail Polish.

Great Multicolor Topcoat & Anti-fungal Toenail Polish.

Nail file and removal equipment set.

Karma Organic Beauty Natural Soybean Lavender Nail Polish Remover - Non Toxic, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Acetone free – Nails Strengthener for Fingernails – 4 fl. Oz.

Total Two-In-One Base And Top Coat Nail Polish Clear Glaze Organic Nail Polishes Quick Dry (Two-In-One Base And Top Coat, Clear Combination Base & Top Coats)

Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish, Smart Start Pink Kit With Remedy Remover And Signature Jute Bag, 5.7 Fluid Ounce

Gel Nail Polish Remover Tools, 20pcs Fingernail &Toenail Clips 114Pcs Nail Pads 5pcs 100/180 Grits Nail Files 400/4000 Grits Nail Buffer Nail Scraper for Dip Powder NailBy Teenitor

Price:

$11.99

$21.00

$52.49

$9.99

Overview:

Great non-toxic and non-acetone toenail remove. Great budget price with removal.

Great reliable brand that is combined with non-toxic and anti-fungal ingredients.

Great reliable brand that is combined with non-toxic and anti-fungal ingredients. Variety of colors.

Great reviews and value for toenail polish remover with nail file.

Pros:

Great reviewed product: 4.4/5 with 1600+ reviews. No acetone.

Tea tree oil base. Great reviews at 4.4/5 with over 200+ ratings. Great brand.

Tea tree oil base. Great reviews at 4.5/5 with a reliable brand.

Great reviews at 4.4/5 with 270 ratings. Includes nail files which are important.

Cons:

There are some questions about what organic really means for this brand. Some prefer the faster drying of acetone.

Some compliants of it getting thick if not sealing it properly.

Some compliants of it getting thick if not sealing it properly. Can be more expensive due to anti-fungal ingredients

More of a value budget set.

Crucial Tips:

Some prefer the quicker drying of acetone, but this works better if you are having drying and fungus issues.

If you still use acetone, it may still dehydrate.

The key is after removal, the nail files are useful for removal dry superficial nails and keratin granulations.

Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Buy on Amazon

Best Shoes For Toenail Injuries:

The key to prevent toenail ripping and lifting is to have good supportive shoes.

If you have a good supportive shoe that keeps pressure off your toes in your toenails, there will be no lifting and cracking to allow bacteria and fungus to get in.

This almost seems counter-intuitive, but when people make a switch to perfect supportive shoes that fit properly, their toenail problems almost always get better over the next few months or a year.

Your current nail is already likely destroyed, especially with joggers toe, but let the new nail growing healthy without new damage.

Click the following link for our most recommended shoes. Try to focus on shoes with mesh and room around the big toe and also the smaller toes.

Best Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

20 Ways To Get Rid of Toenail Fungus (Proven CURE & Home Remedies)

Best Antifungal Moisture Wicking Socks:

These are some great options for moisture-wicking sucks.

The more you can wick moisture from your foot, the less chance there is that toenail fungus, and athlete’s foot can survive.

We tried to focus on budget value stocks that are not too expensive.

Sure there are better stocks out there, but these are great socks for a great price for most people.

If you have diabetes, focus on getting yourself some diabetic socks.

Yes, you're allowed to use it. Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment for use on the skin.

Although the key ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) are meant to treat coughs, they may also help with toenail fungus. Vapor rubs aren't a strange idea. Menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oils are commonly included in these famous ointments, which have been around for hundreds of years. It's promoted as a cure for cold and cough symptoms.

According to the firm, Vicks VapoRub can help with minor muscle pains and joint soreness. The chemicals in Vicks VapoRub are the same as in classic vapor rub formulas:

4.8 percent camphor
menthol (2.6%) menthol (2.6%) menthol (2.6%)
1.2 percent eucalyptus oil

When Vicks VapoRub is applied to your feet or other regions of your body, it has a cooling effect. The presence of camphor and menthol is mostly responsible for this. The cold sensation of the vapor rub may be calming and boost your mood for a short time. It has no effect on body temperature or fevers, though. Vick's VapoRub also includes eucalyptus oil, which contains a natural substance called 1,8-cineole. Its antibacterial and antiviral activities are due to this molecule. It contains anti-inflammatory qualities, as well.

This indicates that it may aid in the relief of pain and the reduction of edema. This may also help to relieve the aches and pains associated with a feverish cold. The fragrance of all three of these substances is really strong and minty. Vicks VapoRub, according to the Mayo Clinic, does not cure a stuffy nose or sinus congestion. Instead, the menthol fragrance is so strong that it fools your brain into believing you're breathing more deeply.

Nail fungus is a not unusual circumstance that begins as a white or yellow spot under the end of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection is going deeper, nail fungus may additionally cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the threshold. It is able to affect numerous nails. Here are some natural tips.

If your circumstance is mild and no longer bothering you, you could now not want a remedy. if your nail fungus is painful and has triggered thickened nails, self-care steps and medications such as this one [1]may additionally help. But even though remedy is a success, nail fungus regularly comes again.

By using this fungus medication you can get rid of it permanently. The best thing about it is that is has been created with natural ingredients created with scientific research of years. It would bring rapid results and convenient to utilize. Here you can see the before and after the use of this product.

You can find health recipes and tips and improve your health entirely by visiting the following resource.

A daft idea. Read what it says on the tin or jar!

If available to you locally, then I recommend Gehwol Protective Skin and Nail Oil, which contains a genuine anti-fungal medication called Clotrimazole. Apply a drop daily for 3–6 months as the nail grows-out (and softens, reattaching the three layers).

Be aware that 10% of nail infections are in fact a yeast. For this (if using an anti-fungal fails) then Mykored is a useful alternative as a an alcohol + acid to change the acidity of the nail bed (kills any yeast component).

How to Get Rid of Toenail Fungus With Vicks

Sometimes you have both! In this case, I suggest alternating Gehwol and Mykored, daily use of one for a fortnight, then the other for a fortnight, alternating for 3–6 month as the nail grows out.

If you have a thickened, slow growing, traumatised toe nail (short, loose footwear / horses / other), then you will find it very difficult to win this race.

Oral terbinafine is available from your doctor on prescription, is suggested when the infection is likely to be fungal and has spread to multiple toes.

There is evidence that Vick’s can cure some cases of toenail fungus. Particularly if the fungus has not gotten all the way into the root of the nail. It does require perseverance, daily application for 6 to 18 months or longer. Oral medications, particularly terbinifine, have a much higher cure rate and can be effective in more severe cases.

Vick’s does help condition the nail and is an analgesic, so it may be helpful even if it doesn’t cure the fungus.

No matter what you use there is a very good chance that the fungus will return eventually.

There is also the possibility that your skin might get irritated by the Vick’s, in which case you might switch to just Vaseline for a while.

Mechanically or chemically removing as much of the infected nail as possible is also helpful.

I have never known a topical treatment of nail fungus to be effective on a nail that is totally infected, that is, when the fungus goes down to the root.

As a final caveat, some podiatrists and dermatologists think that as much as 50% of conditions identified as fungal nails are actually something else, like psoriatic nails or just idiopathic yellow nails. In which case Vick’s might improve the appearance and comfort of the nails, but not cure.

For best results see a podiatrist or dermatologist who can identify the cause of your problem nail(s), thin them and create a treatment plan that works for you. Otherwise there is little risk to trying the Vick’s, but probably only a 7 to 25% chance of a cure.

Toenail fungus is a common fungal infection of toenails. It causes yellow discoloration of your nails and makes them thick and dry, leading to cracks.

Toenail fungus is caused by various fungi, dermatophyte being the most common type. Molds and yeast can also cause this infection.

My father had this infection a few years back. In the starting, we also tried all homemade remedies, but the results were not so good. We visited the doctor on time before it could spread to other parts and got it treated.

I suggest you take this infection a bit seriously and visit the doctor on time if you feel pain and discomfort. Otherwise, it can spread to other toenails and skin as well.

Hi.

I was suffering from toe nail fungus last 3~4 years. Slowly it was increasing .I was removing the nail from infected area and applying allopathic lotion over the nail and affected area for a few weeks but could not see a change. This was partially the nail grows very slowly any could not judge whether the fungus is being destroyed or not and the nail which is coming up will be ok. My doctor told me that if fungus grows severely it can penetrate into toe skin at root of nail and a day came when my entire toe nail got infected and skin at root of nail also got turned red and puss also. I got really scared and started searching on net.

One solution (video) I found was use paste of garlic and wrap it with polythene so that moisture remains there. It clicked as it is said that it has anti bacterial and anti fungul effect. I did so but after 3~4 hrs I had burning sensation and gradually it was increasing. I could not resist and opened the polythene and found that skin had turned black like burnt skin. I just washed it off. It took 3~4 days to heal that. I continued reading on net at several sites Vicks Veporub was mentioned but I was not able to digest a medicine for cold and cough will work for fungus. I one of the article written by a user it was meh ntioned that it has ucliptis oil which is anti fungul. It clicked and I decide to to it.

Now my whole toe nail was removed surface was whitish rough. I applied reasonably this layer of Vicks Veporub , put cotton over it , of course with a bandage inbetween so that cotton does not stick to rough surface. To my utmost surprise when I got up in morning opened bandage and saw the toe I was extremely soft all whitish fungus has become loose which I could wash and remove. I decided to continue. In the morning I use to apply with bandage for whole day and remove in night while sleeping In 3 days the skin became absolute pinkish and after 1015 days I saw beautiful pinkish nail growing out. I continued this practice for several months and got full healthy nail.

Why You SHOULD NOT use Vicks Vaporub For Toenail Fungus. (Here's What I've Learned.)

I was not difficult at all as just before getting ready for office I use to put bandage wear shoes and go to office and when come back home remove shoe and bandage too. Not cleaned with detol or sevlon ever as while bathing it got cleaned.

3 days back one of my neighbour called me that I have ingrown nail and I can not even touch the toe can you recommend some doctor. I am not able to go to office since last 4 days. I told him try Vick Veporub it will soften your nail as well as entire skin. Third day he met me and thanked for relief.

You will do well to be using Vicks Vaporub for your antifungal strategy. I apply Vicks for every second day I go to work. I shower, towel off, and then apply the Vicks to my feet before I put my socks and shoes on.

Every week, I have to trim my toe nails before I have a shower. Then I apply the Vicks to make sure that I get to areas that the longer toe nail protected.

If you are just using Vicks for the first time, it will take a week before the toe nail will darken. That is assuming you are applying the Vicks every day. The toe nail can be trimmed back over time. Eventually, your toe nails will look healthy. If you have a bad case of toenail fungus, the toenail will probably fall off. Either way, when the new nail grows back, you should have a healthier outlook on your feet.

But keep at it. Even when your toenails look healthy, you might want to reapply some Vicks Vaporub in a few months to ensure that the fungus does not return.

You’re probably familiar with the strong smell of this over-the-counter topical cough suppressant by Procter & Gamble. Giving Vicks VapoRub its infamous smell is camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol.

The connection between toenail fungus and VapoRub comes down to the two active ingredients: camphor, eucalyptus oil. These ingredients have been seen to have antifungal properties.

While their intended use is to soothe a cough when applied to the chest, there are some that swear it’s strong enough to kill toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus can be caused by a few different strains of fungi. Can VapoRub act as a catch-all and kill all toenail fungus?

Let’s find out.

Consulting the scientific research

It’s time to get science-y.

In 2011, an interesting study researching over-the-counter cures for toenail fungus was published. In this study, researchers used Vicks VapoRub against toenail fungus.

The first thing to note here is there are a few types of toenail fungus. Toenail fungus can be caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds.

However, the most common culprit of toenail fungus is the dermatophyte trichophyton rubrum, also known as T. rubrum.

In this study, researchers studied the following toenail fungus:

T. mentagrophytes (dermatophyte)

T. rubrum (dermatophyte)

Candida parapsilosis (yeast)

After 48 weeks, all patients with T. mentagrophytes or Candida parapsilosis toenail fungus went on to a “total cure”.

While those with the common T. rubrum seemed to fare the worst. Of the 6 with positive T. rubrum cultures, 5 saw a particle cure and 1 saw no change.

HOW TO TREAT FUNGAL NAIL INFECTION - TINEA UNGUIUM / ONYCHOMYCOSIS

Remember, T. rubrum is commonly the fungi culprit behind most toenail fungus infections...

So, can Vicks VapoRub kill toenail fungus?

While the study concluded positively, stating “Vicks VapoRub seems to have a positive clinical effect in the treatment onychomycosis” -- it’s clear it only works for some.

(T. rubrum party excluded.)

Since most toenail infections are caused by T. rubrum, it’s not likely Vicks VapoRub can help kill your infection. However, if your infection is yeast-based or due to T. mentagrophytes -- it might help.

One clear limitation to this study is the lack of patient follow-up after product use stops. Considering nail fungus infections easily and quickly reoccur after treatment, it’s quite difficult to consider it a “cure” if it reoccurs.

Summary

Can Vicks VapoRub treat toenail fungus?

Yes and no.

Vicks VapoRub can’t treat the most common fungus culprit. Which, might suggest for the large majority -- it’s just not useful.

If your infection is primary yeast-based or due to T. mentagrophytes -- Vicks VapoRub might help.

For the rest of us, trusty and tested azole antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole might be the best way forward.

Honestly, when I read anything about Vicks VapoRub (Procter and Gamble) and onychomycosis, my “mythbusters” mind activates. I can’t even count the times I have heard physicians and patients extol the positives of this over-the-counter ointment. I understand the cost benefit of using an easily attainable product but I want to see the evidence before recommending it.

What are the components of Vicks VapoRub? Thymol, menthol, camphor and oil of eucalyptus seem to be broad spectrum anti-infectives that have shown activity in vitro against Candida, Aspergillus and some dermatophytes.1 That said, in a recent literature search for a chapter I am writing on the myths of onychomycosis, I came across several articles on the use of the mentholated ointment for toenails, one of which was a clinical trial.1

The first clinical trial completed using Vicks VapoRub on mycotic nails was a pilot study by a family medicine group.1 Eighteen people who had nail disease completed the 48-week study. There are some positive aspects of this study but it did not follow all of the protocols that researchers normally do for topical antifungal studies. Unlike Phase 3 clinical trials for toenail onychomycosis, this study did not exclusively enroll patients who had cultures for dermatophytes like T. rubrum or T. mentagrophytes, and did not limit the percent of the affected nail to 50 or 60 percent.

Instead, the study authors included patients who cultured organisms like: “fungal elements,” Cryptococcus, Candida, Penicillium and Fusarium, and allowed people who had up to 100 percent of the nail affected visually.1 Of the 18 patients, only nine had cultures of either T. rubrum or T. mentagrophytes. The study authors found that five of the 18 patients (27.8 percent) had a mycological and clinical cure, and 10 (55.6 percent) had “partial clearance.”

Let’s dissect this further. If we were to look at the nine people who had cultures for the most common dermatophytes causing onychomycosis, those who had T. rubrum fared the worst. Five patients had partial clearance (at times only a 10 percent change in the nail appearing clearer at week 48) and one study participant had no change at all.1 T. mentagrophytes infected toenails did the best with all three patients going on to a complete cure but the authors did not define a complete cure as 0 percent of the surface area affected. These patients still had 5 percent or more of the nail visually affected at 48 weeks. In regard to the other organisms involved, both people who had Candida parapsilosis went onto a complete cure but there was no change for those who had Penicillium species and Candida albicans (one patient each).

Ten of the 18 patients had greater than 60 percent of the nail affected at the beginning of the study with some having 89 or 100 percent affected nails. This is highly unusual for a toenail clinical trial and one can certainly argue that a 48-week treatment period isn’t long enough to manage a nail that is totally dystrophic. Adding a modality such as nail debridement could be synergistic for a topical study that enrolls patients with nails as involved as these.

Did this study convince me to recommend Vicks VapoRub to my toenail onychomycosis patients? No.

While I think this study is a positive start in supporting or shattering the use of a mentholated ointment for mycotic nails, a study that controls the percentage of nail involvement, nail thickness, nail debridement, organisms cultured and product use — some patients used it daily while some only used it three to five times per week — while having a vehicle arm and a larger sample size would be more convincing to me. Time will tell if this ointment truly can eradicate fungus or, by virtue of its ointment properties, simply creates a more hydrated nail unit that gives the appearance of a healthier nail.

Home remedies are rarely studied in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. As a result, we don’t often have scientific research to show how well-or not-they may work. It is unusual for us to have a solid explanation for the success of certain popular home remedies. One example is the use of Vicks VapoRub for toenail fungus.

Fighting Toenail Fungus:

Q. I have lived with a fungus infection of one big toenail for several years. Various over-the-counter remedies I tried did not work.

I read the following article in the “CR Health” department of the March, 2006 issue of Consumer Reports magazine:

“Applying Vicks VapoRub to fungus-infected toenails can clear up the notoriously hard-to-treat condition. Michigan State University clinicians found that applying the product daily to the infected nail cleared the condition in 32 of 85 patients, though it took anywhere from 5 to 16 months…”

I purchased a tube of Vicks Greaseless Cream VapoRub in mid-February, and have applied it morning and evening to the affected toenail. I use only a small amount, enough to scrape off my finger under the front of the nail and around the cuticle.

To my immense gratification, IT WORKS! (At least for me.) After six weeks of use, the nail has lost most of its previous black color and is showing about a quarter of an inch of fresh, healthy-looking nail coming out of the cuticle as the nail grows. It’s worth trying – nowhere near as expensive as the ineffective stuff they sell for the purpose!

How Well Does Vicks VapoRub Work?

A. Over the years we have heard from many people who have had success with Vicks VapoRub in the treatment of nail fungus. You will read some of their stories below. Others tell us this remedy is totally worthless.

That is not surprising. Many people report failure with pricey prescription anti-fungal products too. Some people spend quite a bit of money on oral antifungal medicine and take it for many months, only to have the fungus return after a temporary “cure.”

It seems as if nail fungus is surprisingly variable. This may be due both to the range of fungal pathogens that can affect nails and to differences among the hosts’ immune systems. Some people never get nail fungus even though they walk barefoot in the garden, in the shower or at a locker room. Others find all their toenails are thick, yellowish-brown and misshapen. Not only do they look ugly, but they are hard to clip. One treatment may work for awhile, but the fungus seems to come back relentlessly.

How to Spot and Treat Fungal Nail Infections

We often wonder whether there are different fungi at work or if the relationship between the immune system and the fungi have something to do with this problem.

The Research on Vicks VapoRub for Nail Fungus:

As for Vicks VapoRub, there actually have been a few studies showing benefit against nail fungus. In one, people with AIDS (whose immune systems do not function well) had their nail fungus treated with Vicks. The conclusion: safe and effective (Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, Jan-Feb., 2016).

Previously, a pilot study had shown results in 15 out of 18 people using Vicks VapoRub on the nails daily for 48 weeks (Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, Jan-Feb., 2011). Even before that, a study of some of the essential oils in Vicks VapoRub showed that they are active against five different species of fungus that infect nail tissue (Phytotherapy Research, April, 2003). Camphor, menthol, thymol and oil of eucalyptus are effective against these organisms. Moreover, fungi rarely develop resistance to them (Mycopathologia, Feb. 2016).

Vicks VapoRub Stories and Experiences from Readers over the Years:

Tom N. touts the house brand at lower cost:

“My solution was simple and no fuss. I rubbed Walmart house brand version of VapoRub (1/3 cost of Vicks) on toenail, uncovered, each night before retiring. After 5 months the fungus has grown out the end of the nail.

“Disclosure: I am not a shill for Walmart….”

We have no opinion as to the quality of generic Vicks VapoRub. The relatively low cost of either the name brand or the house brand does not make this a big issue for us. Keep in mind that a jar will last a long time, even with daily applications.

Vagisil for Nail Fungus?

Jim P. offers a different option–a vaginal anti-itch product:

“On a radio show years ago, Joe or Terry mentioned that resorcinol was an anti-fungal. This is the active ingredient in Vagisil (and store brands).

“So I tried it on my toenail fungus. The results were equal to Vicks VapoRub (complete cure on 3 nails, partial on 1), but the nail surface was smoother and more normal-looking. All I do is rub Vagisil into the affected nails and nail bed once a day after my shower. 30 seconds once a day is all it takes, and there’s no odor or greasy residue.

“Note – you won’t clear up existing fungus; you have to wait for new nail growth to see the difference. (I tried a weak tea tree oil lotion years ago, and all the fungus grew back. I haven’t tried a 100% tea tree oil.)”

Resorcinol has been around for more than 150 years. It has been used topically as an antiseptic and to treat a variety of skin conditions including psoriasis, eczema and acne. Not surprisingly, it has antifungal activity, which might account for why it could be useful against nail fungus.

Amber Listerine & White Vinegar:

Jen says Listerine and vinegar are her go-to solution:

“I used tea tree oil faithfully for several years with some improvement. Also oregano oil, recommended as stronger than tea tree oil – and quite expensive. Again, some improvement. I tried the Vicks with socks at night, but I don’t like sleeping with socks.

“Then I began one hour per week of soaking in water with lots of white vinegar. I had immediate success – the fungus cleared almost completely and quickly.

“Since then I have continued the weekly soaks with vinegar and the amber Listerine and no water – one hour while sitting at the computer. I wonder if there is more than one kind of fungus since the tea tree oil was only somewhat successful, while the vinegar was much better for me. If there is more than one kind of fungus, that would explain why different strokes for different folks seems to be a key factor.

IS THIS TOENAIL FUNGUS? ***LEARN ALL ABOUT NAIL FUNGUS TREATMENT*** MUST WATCH!!!

“Incidentally, the weeds in my garden do not like vinegar so I just dump my used soaking mixture there – I have lots of weeds to use it on! And it works.”

We have lost count of the number of people who insist that when all else fails, white vinegar and Listerine foot soaks do the job. We are not surprised. Listerine has a good dose of alcohol and other ingredients that attack fungi.

Vinegar also makes the environment inhospitable to fungi. It does take the kind of patience that Jen describes to work the magic.

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Cornmeal Mush Foot Soaks:

K.B. offers one of the stranger home remedies we keep hearing about. His baggie trick is quite clever:

“Regarding the cornmeal treatment: I read about it on this website perhaps two years ago, but, at that time, there were no specific instructions as to usage, so I devised my own, and had great success in approximately six weeks.

“I half-filled a ziploc baggie with corn meal, and as I read or applied makeup or watched television, I placed my foot into the bag so that my afflicted nail was submerged into the dry cornmeal. I would do that twice a day for ten or fifteen minutes at a time.

“For housekeeping purposes, one would need a towel so that foot could be free of cornmeal when finished with treatment. The results were miraculous, and this was such a simple remedy after years of having this unsightly nail, and even visiting dermatologist for prescriptions that did not work. The healthy condition has been maintained without cornmeal.

“I tell everyone about your website and your Saturday morning program on NPR as you truly stay abreast of so many things. of course, we all read your weekly column also.”

K.B.’s innovative approach is quite different from anything we have heard when it comes to cornmeal. The more typical remedy is to make a cornmeal batter. Here is one example:

Larry loves cornmeal mush. We are still astonished that it could work SO fast. It kind of defies logic, but hey, there’s not much to lose giving it a try:

“When examining me my doctor noticed that I had nail fungus affecting toes on each foot. He recommended that I make a batter by mixing cornmeal and water, let it sit for an hour, and then using a shallow pan, soak my feet for an hour. He told me to do this once a week for a month. If the fungus was not gone, I was supposed to apply Vicks Vaporub once a week for a month.

I did the cornmeal therapy for three week and the fungus was gone. I don’t know why it works, but it’s cheap, harmless, and it worked for me.”

We make no promises about any nail fungus remedy. What works for Larry may not work for Sue or Henry or Mary. You will have to experiment to discover whether Vicks VapoRub or some other remedy is the best approach for you.

How To Treat Toenail Fungus With VICKS VAPORUB

Please share your own experience in the fight against nail fungus in the comment section below.

Interviewer: They're ugly, and, for some, nail fungus can be painful and also very tough to get rid of. Dermatologist, Dr. Christopher Hull, what's the first thing you do when a patient comes in with nail fungus?

Dr. Hull: Well, first, I like to make sure that it actually is nail fungus, because there are other nail conditions that can look very similar to and mimic nail fungus. So first that usually involves assessment of the nails. Sometimes we'll do some confirmatory testing with clippings and cultures and scrapings. And then, once we're comfortable that it's a fungal infection and not another condition of the nail that looks like nail fungus, then we talk about how it's affecting them and what they're hoping to achieve as far as treatment.

Interviewer: Got it. So if it's something else, the treatment options would be different. That's why you really want to find out, what . . . it is fungus, right?

Dr. Hull: Right. And treating nail fungus is notoriously very challenging, often with failures along the way. And so it's important to be sure that before you start going down the path of treatment, that you've actually got a correct diagnosis.

Interviewer: And it can take a long time to treat. So you wouldn't want to go down this path of treatment and then . . . yeah.

Dr. Hull: Right. And some of the treatments require monitoring and have some risks associated with them.

Treatment Options for Nail Fungus

Interviewer: Got it. So you find out it's a nail fungus. At that point, what are the treatment options?

Dr. Hull: There are a number of treatments. There are many things that are you know, available over the counter. You go to the internet and Google "nail fungus treatment," you'll come up with 10,000 hits, I bet.

Interviewer: Yeah, pills, polishes, creams?

Dr. Hull: Right.

Interviewer: Yeah, all sorts of things. What do you tend to like to use?

Dr. Hull: Most of those have not been investigated with really good clinical trials. But I think there's things that people have used and have found to be helpful. One common thing that comes up are products that contain menthol. So Vicks VapoRub is a common nail remedy for nail fungus. It probably won't help. But it won't hurt anything either.

Most of my conversation is usually discussing medical therapy, so things that are available by prescription only. And those come in two main forms, which are topical antifungal medications, and then oral antifungal medications. There are other surgical or procedural options, so you can remove nails as well. And then there's starting to be more interest in technologies like lasers for nail fungus.

Interviewer: So you would said at one point that you have a conversation with the patient, what is it you're trying to accomplish. I understand for some people it can be very painful. So it might be to alleviate the thickness of the nail and the pain.

Dr. Hull: Right. And it gets difficult to clip, trim, and groom nails when they get very thick. It can be associated with pain because of ingrown nails. And in some cases, it can also predispose people to infection, so cellulitis and so forth. So there are medically important reasons to treat them. Some people just don't like the appearance of the nails.

The Right Way To Use Vicks Vaporub for Toenail Fungus Toenail Fungus Cure

Interviewer: Yeah. Because doesn't look good in your flip-flops, does it?

Dr. Hull: Right. Wearing sandals in the summer time with thick, yellow nails is something that a lot of people would like to not have to do.

Interviewer: So if it isn't necessarily painful, do you recommend treatment? Do you really leave that up to the patient at the point?

Dr. Hull: Yeah. My personal philosophy is to leave it up to the patient. So I give them the different options, talk about the length of treatments, the monitoring, the likelihood of success, and then have a conversation with them about whether they want to move forward with those treatments. And a lot of people like not to do anything and many people are very motivated to treat their nails.

Pros and Cons of Oral Treatments

Interviewer: Sure. What about the oral drugs? I understand that some people are concerned about the side effects those can cause. So are the oral drugs, generally, better than the topical or . . .

Dr. Hull: Yeah. The oral medications are more effective than topical treatments.

Interviewer: Sure.

Dr. Hull: The good news though is that the safety of most of these oral medications is very good. And the treatments are also much less expensive. So there's quite a bit of cost benefit from using the oral medications.

Interviewer: What are some of the concerns with the oral medication side effects?

Potential for Liver Toxicity

Dr. Hull: The primary concern is liver toxicity, because these medications are metabolized by the liver. Looking at cost effectiveness of oral versus a topical medication, I'm really sort of arguing for the oral medication because it's so much less expensive. But then, also, looking at a lot of the safety information about the medication and the risk of serious liver adverse event is very low in that medication. That said, I still will recommend appropriate monitoring. And that's laboratory testing, usually a baseline and then midway through the treatment.

Interviewer: Are they antibiotic based?

Dr. Hull: They're antifungal, so they're specific towards fungus. So they have no effect on bacterial like an antibiotic would.

Interviewer: So people that are afraid of antibiotics for whatever stomach reasons they might have.

Dr. Hull: Yeah. It won't have any effect on the flora of the gut. And actually, interesting, they don't . . . this particular one, terbinafine, doesn't have an effect on the natural yeast that we see in the intestine called candida. So it shouldn't have any effect on that. Some people can get rashes, and there's, you know, other less common side effects. But for the most part, I find them to be well tolerated.

How To Use Vicks To Treat & Cure Toenail Fungus - FAST EASY REMEDY

Home Remedies for Nail Fungus

Interviewer: Some of the home remedies that I saw, you mentioned Vicks VapoRub, snake root extract, tea tree oil . . .

Dr. Hull: I haven't come across snake root extract yet. But it sounds like it might eat away a nail pretty well.

Interviewer: Sure.

Dr. Hull: Yeah. There's a lot of those things out there. A lot of people use vinegar, tea tree oil. The hard part with any of these topical medicines is they don't penetrate the nail unit very well. So getting them, actually, to the fungus in the nail unit is very difficult. And that's why a lot of the prescription topical medicines have such limited effects.

Interviewer: What about do-it-yourself at home trying to thin that nail out like, you know, by coating it with . . . what do people coat it with?

Dr. Hull: Well, I think doing debridement at home is, actually, helpful. So a lot of times, I'll have people file their nails down, clip the nails back, because that helps to kind of trim away some of the infected nail as well.

Best Candidates for Oral Treatment

Interviewer: Would your recommendation, generally, be for somebody to use the oral pills if possible just because it's such a shorter treatment time?

Dr. Hull: Well, I think it just depends on the person. There are some people who have other risk factors, who have a history of liver disease or something where I wouldn't be comfortable putting them on that medication. So I use both medications, and sometimes I use them in combination. So I'll have them do a first course with an oral antifungal and then follow up with a topical. And that may help prevent reinfection, too, down the road.

Interviewer: Which is pretty common from what I understood.

Dr. Hull: Yeah. So it's common. You can get the nail clear, and then people are just exposed to the fungus in their environment, in their shoes and so forth, and they can get reinfected easily.

Interviewer: So it sounds like that if somebody does have nail fungus, for the most part, does it bother you because it's ugly? If there's pain involved, then for sure, you would recommend some treatment. For some people, there could be other medical reasons to treat it.

Dr. Hull: Right, yeah. Somebody with, you know, for example, diabetes who's at risk of ulcerations on the feet, cellulitis infections, they are people that may be . . . they may be more proactive about treating to help reduce their risk of infections.

Interviewer: But for the most part, it sounds like if you don't really have many symptoms, it's just kind of a personal choice?

Dr. Hull: That's true.

A longstanding rumor among those who suffer from fungus-ridden feet contends that over-the-counter Vicks VapoRub has a hidden podiatric power: it allegedly cures toenail fungus.

A 2009 piece from the New York Times backed up the unwittingly miraculous cure, citing one study that noted how one of the ointment’s active ingredients, thymol, had unforeseen anti-fungal qualities. Herbal medicine enthusiasts probably relished the scientific validation, because thymol is a chemical compound found in the oil of the common household herb thyme.

SUPER THICK TOENAIL - HOW TO FIX!!

Perhaps owing to the insignificance of toenail fungus in light of other, more pressing health matters, the intrigue around this alleged cure still stands. And the question obviously remains: does it actually work?

What did the New York Times article say?

Researchers have been studying the effects of the herb, thyme, on curing toenail fungus—a condition that, while not normally harmful, eats up an expectedly large portion of Americans’ medical bills every year. Over-the-counter medications for eliminating nail fungus are plagued with drawbacks: They’re expensive, don’t have great results, and have a whole slew of side effects. Here’s what The New York Times had to say in 2009 about the research surrounding the use of herbal remedies such as thyme to treat dermatophytes—a common type of fungi that humans contract from contact with other humans, animals, and soil.

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Does the rest of the podiatry world believe it?

Not exactly. There isn’t enough of a scientific literature directly applied to the use of Vicks VapoRub and thymol to make a definitive conclusion as to whether it will help your toenail fungus. It’s likely that your podiatrist won’t advise you to use it for this purpose.

Writing for Podiatry Today in 2016, Tracey Vlahovic looked at one of the more influential studies in the area, deducing that there just isn’t enough evidence to support this specific ointment as a good treatment.

Time will tell if this ointment truly can eradicate fungus or, by virtue of its ointment properties, simply creates a more hydrated nail unit that gives the appearance of a healthier nail.

Additionally, Dr. Christopher Hull, a dermatologist at the University of Utah, recently claimed the remedy “probably won’t help. But it won’t hurt anything either.”

Hull went on to explain why topic treatments usually don’t do much:

There’s a lot of those things out there. A lot of people use vinegar, tea tree oil. The hard part with any of these topical medicines is they don’t penetrate the nail unit very well. So getting them, actually, to the fungus in the nail unit is very difficult. And that’s why a lot of the prescription topical medicines have such limited effects.

Get Rid of Toenail Fungus: **Doctor Recommended Home Guide!**

The best course of action is take whatever anti-fungal drugs your doctor recommends. There might not be an exciting over-the-counter cure sitting in your medicine cabinet, but at least your doctor can prescribe a drug that will.

How long does it take for Vicks to work on nail fungus?

Background: Current medication treatments for onychomycosis have less than full cure-rate efficacy and have the potential for adverse side effects. Vicks VapoRub (The Proctor & Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH) has been advocated in the lay literature as an effective treatment for onychomycosis. This pilot study tested Vicks VapoRub as a safe, cost-effective alternative for treating toenail onychomycosis.

Methods: Eighteen participants were recruited to use Vicks VapoRub as treatment for onychomycosis. Participants were followed at intervals of 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks; digital photographs were obtained during initial and follow-up visits. Primary outcome measures were mycological cure at 48 weeks and clinical cure through subjective assessment of appearance and quantifiable change in the area of affected nail by digital photography analysis. Patient satisfaction was a secondary outcome, measured using a single-item questionnaire scored by a 5-point Likert scale.

Results: Fifteen of the 18 participants (83%) showed a positive treatment effect; 5 (27.8%) had a mycological and clinical cure at 48 weeks; 10 (55.6%) had partial clearance, and 3 (16.7%) showed no change. All 18 participants rated their satisfaction with the nail appearance at the end of the study as “satisfied” (n = 9) or “very satisfied” (n = 9).

Conclusions: Vicks VapoRub seems to have a positive clinical effect in the treatment onychomycosis.

Mentholated OintmentOnychomycosisTreatment

Toenail onychomycosis is a common diagnosis for primary care physicians. The prevalence of onychomycosis in the North American adult population may range from 2% to 18%, with prevalence increasing to 20% and 30% for those older than 60 years and 70 years, respectively.1–5 Onychomycosis is commonly associated with tinea pedis. Significant physical and psychological effects, such as pain and negative self-image, may occur in patients with onychomycosis.6

Dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes are the predominant pathogens in onychomycosis; nondermatophytes (usually Candida) account for a smaller percentage (10% to 20%) of toenail onychomycosis.1,7 Presentation of infection may occur in various patterns: fungal invasion of distal or lateral margins of the nail (distolateral subungual onychomycosis); direct effect from above or on top of the nail with a powdery, white, patchy discoloration (superficial white onychomycosis); or infection beginning from the proximal location beneath the nail bed (proximal subungual onychomycosis).7

Current treatment agents for onychomycosis include both systemic and topical medications. A meta-analysis of systemic therapies showed mycological cure rates of 76% with the use of terbinfine, 63% with the use of itraconazole pulse dosing, 61% with the use of griseofulvin, and 48% with the use of fluconazole.8 Downsides to oral therapy include the potential for adverse side effects, most notably hepatotoxicity, and the significant cost of the medication course, which is typically of 3 months’ duration. Ciclopirox 8% is a topical lacquer solution that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of onychomycosis, with reported mycological cure rates of 34% in meta-analysis studies of North America patients.9 Cure rates of ciclopirox 8% and other topical therapies that have not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (eg, amorolfine 5% and tioconazole 28%) are lower than those observed with systemic treatments, and the course of topical treatments ranges from 6 to 12 months.7

Vicks VapoRub (The Proctor & Gamble Company, Cincinnati, OH) has been popularized by lay medical Web sites as a home cure for onychomycosis.10 No published trials examining the effect of this compound on onychomycosis have been accomplished. However, the active and inactive ingredients in Vicks VapoRub (thymol, menthol, camphor, and oil of Eucalypus) have shown efficacy against dermatophytes in vitro.11–14 The purpose of this pilot study was to test the efficacy of Vicks VapoRub as a safe, cost-effective alternative for treating toenail onychomycosis in an outpatient clinic setting.

Methods

The study protocol was approved by the institutional review board of the Malcolm Grow US Air Force Medical Center. Participants were recruited from an outpatient family medicine clinic that serves both an active duty and civilian (dependent and retiree) populations. Information posters were placed in the clinic lobbies to advertise the study. Patients used contact details on the posters to arrange an appointment with study investigators. During the initial appointment, the study was explained and informed consent for participation was obtained. Demographic data (age, sex, military status) was obtained along with historic data (duration of dystrophic nail, prior treatment for onychomycosis, chronic medical diseases, medication use, and allergy history).

Toe Fungus Best Tip Ever! Update

Inclusion criteria were men and women older than 18 years of age with clinical onychomycosis that was evident on at least one great toenail. Exclusion criteria included any history of allergic sensitivity to Vicks VapoRub or its active ingredients (thymol, camphor, menthol, or oil of Eucalyptus); any use of oral antidermatophyte medication within the last year; any deformity of the affected nail that would preclude sampling for potassium hydroxide (KOH) and culture or prevent adequate photographic assessment of the nail; and a negative culture of fungal infection from the sampling taken during the initial visit.

After consent was obtained, a digital photograph of the affected nail was taken, and then a nail wedge/clipping was collected for KOH microscopy and culture. The participant was then supplied with the study treatment (Vicks VapoRub) and instructed to apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub with a cotton swab or finger to the affected nail at least once daily. If the culture of the nail sample was negative for fungal infection, volunteers were contacted and removed from the study. Volunteers with positive cultures were contacted for follow-up assessments at 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks. Repeat digital photographs, assessment for adverse reactions, treatment effect, patterns of VapoRub use, and the patient's perceived tolerability of treatment were performed/assessed during each visit.

The primary outcome measures for the study were mycological cure at 48 weeks, defined as negative KOH and culture of nail sample, and clinical cure (clearance of dystrophic nail). Clearance of dystrophic nail was assessed by gross appearance at the end of the study period as “complete,” “partial,” or “no change.” Clearance was quantified through serial digital photography of the affected nail. Photographic editing software (Photoshop CS3, Adobe Systems, Inc., San Jose, CA) was used to define the nail edges and the borders of the affected nail region so areas (in pixel units) of total nail and affected nail could be calculated. Using these areas, the ratio of affected nail area to total nail area was calculated for each photograph taken during the course of the study. A secondary outcome measured was patient satisfaction with the appearance of the affected nail at the end of the study period; this was assessed using a single-item questionnaire scored on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = very satisfied, 2 = satisfied, 3 = neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, 4 = dissatisfied, and 5 = very dissatisfied).

Statistics

Descriptive statistics were used to report outcome data. Paired t test and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze significance of treatment effect from the initial to 48 week period and between infecting pathogen subtypes.

Results

Forty participants were recruited to the study over 10 months. Of these, 20 were removed because of a negative fungal culture result on the initial nail sampling. Two participants removed themselves from the study (1 at 12 weeks and the other at 24 weeks), citing an unwillingness to continue follow-up examinations/photographs. Thus, 18 of the 20 participants with culture-proven onychomycosis completed the 48-week study period.

Five of the 18 participants who completed the study were seen at every follow-up period and had photographs taken at 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks. The remaining 13 participants attended the majority of follow-up appointments (average missed appointments = 1.8). Most missed appointments (16 of 23) were in the 4- or 8-week follow-up period; 6 were in the 12-week period; and 1 was in the 36-week period. At each follow-up visit, queries about compliance and use patterns (1–2 times per week, 3–5 times per week, or daily) showed that the majority of participants (15 of 18) reported daily application of the Vicks VapoRub and the remaining participants (3 of 18) reported use 3 to 5 times per week.

The outcome data are presented in Table 1. Overall, 15 of the 18 participants (83%) had a positive response to the Vicks VapoRub treatment for onychomycosis. Five participants (27.8%) had a mycological cure (negative nail culture) at 48 weeks; 4 of these 5 showed complete clinical and mycological cures (22.2%). However, one still had evidence of dystrophic nail. Ten participants (55.6%) showed evidence of partial clinical cure (decreasing area of dystrophic nail); 9 of these had positive nail cultures at 48 weeks and one had a negative nail culture. The remaining 3 participants (16.7%) showed no significant clinical improvement through 48 weeks and had positive cultures at 48 weeks. Interestingly, all 18 participants rated their satisfaction with the appearance of the affected nail after the study course as either “very satisfied” (n = 9) or “satisfied” (n = 9). Photographs of the observed changes in the toenails of three participants are presented in Figure 1. The average ratio of affected to total nail area decreased from 63% at initial evaluation to 41% at 48 weeks (P < .001; paired t test).

Figure 1.

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Figure 1.

Serial photographic assessment of clinical onychomycosis in selected participants.

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Table 1.

Participant Demographics, Culture Organism, Photographic Assessment of Percentage of Nail Affected Initially and at 12-Week Intervals, Final Clinical and Mycological Cure, and Satisfaction

Dr. Sherry Ingraham on Toenail Fungus

Outcomes were better for the 5 participants with positive cultures for either Candida parapsilosis or T. mentagrophytes. All 5 of these participants showed complete clinical cure compared with none of the 13 participants with other organism growth (P < .001; Fisher's exact test). Four of these 5 participants also had negative cultures by the end of the study compared with one of the 13 remaining participants (P = .008; Fisher's exact test). All 5 participants with positive cultures for either C. parapsilosis or T. mentagrophytes where also highly satisfied with treatment compared with only 4 of the 13 remaining participants (P = .029; Fisher's exact test). Although these findings indicate a strong association between the organism and the success of treatment, they should be considered preliminary because they do not correspond to any preplanned hypothesis.

Discussion

We demonstrated in this pilot study that Vicks VapoRub provides a positive effect in the treatment of onychomycosis. This is the first clinical study in the literature to describe this finding.

To date, treatment for onychomycosis is accomplished primarily with oral (cure rates, 48% to 76%) and/or topical (34% cure rate with ciclopirox 8%)8,9 The cost for a complete course of oral medication treatment for onychomycosis ranges from $780 to $900 (not including associated costs for laboratory monitoring); a course of treatment with ciclopirox 8% is approximately $200.15 A 1-year course of Vicks VapoRub, by comparison, can be expected to cost approximately $24 to $36 (the cost of 2 to 3 6-ounce jars).

Key weaknesses if this study include the small sample size, the lack of a control group, and variability in the pathogens, as well as the initial degree of nail involvement between participants. These weaknesses underscore the fact that this study does not prove or disprove the clinical utility of this unorthodox treatment of onychomycosis.

Nevertheless, the strength of this study is found in the simplicity of its design; we provided a relatively inexpensive and innocuous therapy with straightforward instructions for use and then measured for effect through objective culture and clinical appearance. Although inherently subjective, we believe the assessment of clinical appearance to be an important outcome measure. Nail fungal culture has good specificity and positive predictive value (>94%), but the sensitivity is poor (30% to 50%).7 Photoshop CS3 software allowed for measurement of the area ratio of clinically affected (dystrophic) nail to the total nail. Although an unvalidated method of measuring the degree of infection in the nail, it was useful in providing a more objective means of estimating effect and change in clinical appearance. The participants’ positive satisfaction ratings with the treatment irrespective of the final clinical outcome shows that there is potential benefit in providing this simple, innocuous treatment even with unproven or partial efficacy.

Future studies may benefit from grouping by the pathogens isolated. In the current study we enrolled 3 participants with cultures positive for C. parasilosis and 3 with cultures positive for T. mentagrophytes. These 6 participants accounted for all 5 of the complete clinical cures (one participant with the C. parapsilosis organism had a partial cure). In contrast, of the 6 participants with cultures positive for T. rubrum, 5 had a partial cure and 1 had no change. Focusing future treatment studies on specific organisms may provide more details about treatment efficacy. Additional areas for future studies may include combining Vicks VapoRub with other medical and physical modalities (filing/clipping) or comparing efficacy based on the degree of nail involvement (mild vs severe).

Conclusion

In this pilot study, Vicks VapoRub seemed to have some clinical effect in treating onychomycosis, particularly when C. parapsilosis and T. mentagrophytes were the infecting organisms. Regardless of clinical effect, participants were highly satisfied with the simple, innocuous treatment strategy of once-daily application of Vicks VapoRub to the affected nail. Vicks VapoRub may represent a significant addition to the clinical options for treating onychomycosis, not only because of its clinical effect but also because of the minimization of side effects and its lower cost compared with established therapies. Such a treatment might be a viable first-line option for a condition with limited morbidity apart from cosmetic effect. Future studies are required for proof of efficacy and better delineation of treatment effects.

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that typically starts between the toes. It causes a scaly, itchy rash that may have painful or burning sensations. In some cases, people may also experience ulcers or blisters, which can be very painful.

Fortunately, athlete’s foot can be extremely receptive to home treatment. Here are 10 home treatments that are known to be effective.

1. Over-the-counter treatments

There are a number of over-the-counter (OTC) treatments available for athlete’s foot. These can come as powders, sprays, ointments, and lotions. Many cases of athlete’s foot respond well to OTC treatments and may never require other options.

How to Get Rid of Toenail Fungus Fast and Naturally | Jovanka Ciares

You can apply these treatments directly to the affected area and use them for at least 1 week after symptoms resolve to prevent the infection from immediately returning.

2. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can effectively kill the fungusTrusted Source on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection.

Pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area. Note that it may sting, and it should bubble, especially if you have open wounds. Do this twice daily until the infection subsides.

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which is part of the reason it’s commonly used to treat many fungal infections (including both ringworm and candidiasis).

One 2002 study foundTrusted Source that applying tea tree oil daily could treat both the symptoms of athlete’s foot and the fungus that causes it within a few weeks.

To treat athlete’s foot, mix a carrier oil like warm coconut oil with tea tree oil for a concentration of 25 to 50 percent tea tree oil. Apply it to the affected area two times a day.

4. Neem oil

Both neem oil and neem leaf extracts have incredible antifungal capabilitiesTrusted Source that can help fight athlete’s foot. You can apply the neem oil (or extract) directly to the affected area two to three times a day, massaging it into the skin. This can also be helpful for treating infections that develop under the toenails.

5. Rubbing alcohol

Much like hydrogen peroxide, many families will have rubbing alcohol on hand to clean cuts. Like hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol can help kill off the fungus that’s on the surface level of the skin.

You can apply it directly to the affected area or soak your feet in a footbath of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and 30 percent water for 30 minutes.

6. Garlic

Garlic may have a strong scent, but it can be an effective topical treatment for athlete’s foot. One older study even found that a derivative of garlic, alone, resulted in a complete cure in 79 percent of participantsTrusted Source after just 7 days.

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To use garlic to treat athlete’s foot, crush four to five cloves of garlic. Once smashed, rub them over the affected area. Do this twice daily.

7. Sea salt baths

Sea salt has strong antibacterial and antifungal propertiesTrusted Source, making it a great natural treatment for athlete’s foot and any complications it could cause. It may actually inhibit the growth and spread of athlete’s foot.

Some treatments involve mixing sea salt with other natural treatments, like vinegar, to make a sort of paste. The most effective way to use this treatment may be to dissolve a cup of sea salt into a warm foot bath. Soak your feet for at least 20 minutes. Dry your feet thoroughly when you’re finished soaking.

8. Talcum powder

Talcum powder, corn starch, or baby powder work to treat athlete’s foot by keeping the affected area dry and clean. This makes it difficult for the fungus to thrive and spread by keeping sweat and moisture under control.

To use this treatment, apply talcum powder (or antifungal powder) directly to the dried, affected area every time before putting on socks. Be careful not to inhale talcum powder.

9. Vicks VapoRub

Not only can Vicks VapoRub reduce symptoms from a bad cough, it can help treat athlete’s foot. This may be because of its use of eucalyptus oil and menthol, both of which have antifungal properties

Rub Vicks on the affected area every night, massaging it into the foot. Do this every night for at least a month, or up until a week after the infection has disappeared.

10. Keep your feet dry and clean

It’s important to prevent athlete’s foot. Fungus can grow in dark, moist areas, making your feet an ideal place for athlete’s feet to develop. If you have athlete’s foot (or even if you just want to prevent it), keep your feet as dry and clean as possible.

Change your socks regularly. As soon as you’re done working out, clean your feet and put on a fresh pair of socks. Dry the space between your toes. Don’t go barefoot in public pool or gym areas.

You should also use shoes that are well ventilated and allow your feet to breathe to help athlete’s foot resolve more quickly.

Potential risks and complications

If untreated, athlete’s foot can result in a bacterial infection if skin is broken. This can happen due to scratching or when blisters pop or ulcers become infected. Any type of infection can be very serious and requires prompt treatment.

Athlete’s foot is also very contagious. It can easily spread to your hands, especially if you’re scratching at the affected area. This fungus can also infect the area under your nails, which can be more difficult to treat, or the groin area.

When to see your doctor

If you think you have athlete’s foot and it hasn’t subsided after a week of home treatment, make an appointment to see your doctor. You may need prescription antifungals (either oral or topical) to get rid of the infection.

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You should also make an appointment to see your doctor if you have athlete’s foot and diabetes. This is especially true if you have signs of a secondary bacterial infection, which can be more dangerous in those with diabetes due to their nerve damage.

Signs of infection include redness, pus, swelling, drainage, and fever. If you have diabetes, you may not feel pain in your feet due to nerve damage.

Your doctor will likely be able to diagnose athlete’s foot just by looking at it.

Takeaway

Because athlete’s foot is contagious, make sure you avoid scratching or touching the area except when treating the affected area.

Wash your hands before and after applying treatment. This can help prevent the foot from developing a bacterial infection and prevent the fungal infection from spreading to other parts of your body.

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection of your toenail. The most noticeable symptom is a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of one or more of your toenails. It may spread and cause the nails to thicken or crack.

Sandal season or not, toenail fungus typically isn’t what you want to see when you look at your feet. Fortunately, there are many treatments you can try.

Prescription oral antifungals, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan), are traditionally used to treat toenail fungus. These treatments are often effective, but they may cause serious side effects ranging from upset stomach and dizziness to severe skin problems and jaundice.

This may be why many people try home remedies instead. Here are 10 of these popular at-home treatments.

1. Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus.

A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus.

To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.

Shop for Vicks VapoRub online.

2. Snakeroot extract

Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family.

A 2008 studyTrusted Source showed that the remedy is as effective against toenail fungus as the prescription antifungal medicine ciclopirox.

For the study, snakeroot extract was applied to the affected area every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month.

How to Treat Toenail Fungus & Athlete's Foot Naturally

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca, is an essential oil with antifungal and antiseptic abilities.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source, some small-scale clinical studies showed that tea tree oil might be effective against toenail fungus.

To use, paint the tea tree oil directly onto the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab.

Shop for therapeutic-grade tea tree oil online.

4. Oregano oil

Oregano oil contains thymol. According to a 2016 review, thymol has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

To treat toenail fungus, apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together.

Both products are potent and may cause irritation or allergic reaction. Combining them may increase this risk.

Shop for oregano oil online.

5. Olive leaf extract

An active substance in olive leaf extract, oleuropein, is thought to have antifungal, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting abilities.

You can apply olive leaf salve directly to nail fungus or ingest in capsule form.

According to a 2012 review, taking one to three olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily is more effective than olive leaf salve in treating toenail fungus. It’s recommended that you drink plenty of water throughout this treatment.

Shop for olive leaf extract capsules or oil online.

6. Ozonized oils

Ozonized oils are oils like olive oil and sunflower oil that are “injected” with ozone gas.

According to a 2011 studyTrusted Source, this type of ozone exposure in low concentrations for a short duration can then inactivate many organisms such as fungi, yeast, and bacteria.

Another studyTrusted Source found ozonized sunflower oil was more effective in treating toenail fungus than the prescription topical antifungal, ketoconazole (Xolegel).

Vicks Vapor Rub On Feet Fungus - Vicks Vapor Rub For Headaches

To treat toenail fungus with ozonized oil, work the oil into the affected toenail twice a day.

7. Vinegar

Only anecdotal evidence exists supporting vinegar as a treatment for toenail fungus. Still, it’s a reasonably safe home remedy to try.

To use, soak the affected foot in one part vinegar to two parts warm water for up to 20 minutes daily.

8. Listerine mouthwash

Listerine mouthwash contains ingredients such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. This may be why it’s a popular folk remedy for toenail fungus.

Supporters of the treatment recommend soaking the affected foot in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes daily.

Shop for Listerine online.

9. Garlic

A 2009 reviewTrusted Source found that garlic has some antifungal and antimicrobial capabilities.

You may treat toenail fungus with garlic by placing chopped or crushed garlic cloves on the affected area for 30 minutes daily.

It may be better, and less smelly, to treat it from the inside out with garlic capsules. Take as directed by the manufacturer.

10. Adjust your diet

The link between diet and health is clear: The healthier the foods you eat, the better chance your body has to fight off conditions such as toenail fungus.

Give your body the nutrients it needs by eating:

probiotic-rich yogurt

enough protein to support nail regrowth

enough iron to prevent brittle nails

a diet rich in essential fatty acids

foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as low fat dairy products

When to see a doctor

In most cases, toenail fungus is considered a cosmetic problem. Still, it may cause serious complications for some people.

If you have diabetes, toenail fungus may lead to foot ulcers or other foot problems. According to a 2012 study, chronic toenail fungus is a significant risk factor for bacterial cellulitis of the leg.

If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you shouldn’t use home remedies for toenail fungus. Contact your doctor for the appropriate course of action.

Toe Fungus Best Tip Ever!

The bottom line

Home remedies may be more effective than prescription medications in treating mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Although home remedies typically have fewer side effects, there’s less scientific evidence that they work.

Many factors come into play when treating toenail fungus, such as nail penetrability, infection severity, and overall health.

Home remedies may take longer to wipe out toenail fungus than prescription topical medications or oral systemic antifungals. You may not see results for several months. Reinfection is common.

Once the infection is gone, keep your toenails dry, clean, and well-trimmed.

Severe cases of toenail fungus may cause pain and irreversible toenail damage. If you try home remedies to treat the infection and they don’t work or cause side effects, consult your doctor.

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