Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that begins in the layer underneath the nails (basically of the feet) and is accompanied by an alteration in color, thickening or flaking of the nail itself. It's a hassle, so you'll definitely want to get rid of it as soon as possible. One remedy you've probably heard of is to soak your foot in vinegar to get rid of the infection. Vinegar is an acidic substance, capable of killing bacteria and fungi. However, it has very limited effectiveness because it cannot penetrate under the nail. If you want, try it, but if you don't notice any results within a couple of weeks, consult your dermatologist for further treatments.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Prepare a Vinegar Based Soak
If you are going to treat nail fungus with vinegar, the best thing to do is soak your foot in a mixture of water and vinegar. Diluting the vinegar is important to avoid irritating the skin. Try the treatment every day and see if it helps clear the infection. If not, don't worry, you can always resort to conventional care.
Step 1. Shorten the nail first
If the nail covers the fungus, no topical treatment will have much effect. So, take a nail clipper and shorten the nail as much as possible. This will allow the vinegar to reach the mushroom and kill it.
- Do not cut it beyond where the white part ends. You could get hurt.
- If you're having trouble, try softening it first with a urea-based cream. It is a rather used cosmetic treatment for skin irritations, available in pharmacies.
- Disinfect the clipper as soon as you're done so you don't spread the infection. Kill all the mushrooms by soaking it in isopropyl alcohol for half an hour.
Step 2. Mix 240ml hot water and 240ml white vinegar in a bowl
Get a basin or bucket to soak your foot in. Pour in the vinegar and hot water, then mix.
You can also use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar. Both contain the same amount of acetic acid
Step 3. Soak your foot for 10-20 minutes
Insert your foot into the basin making sure the water covers the infected toe. Then, let it soak for 10-20 minutes so that the vinegar has time to soak into the tissues and attack the fungus.
If you have any cuts, the vinegar may sting slightly. However, you don't have to worry
Step 4. Dry your foot thoroughly when done
Fungi thrive in humid environments, so dry your foot as soon as you finish the treatment. Take a clean towel and pat it dry before putting your socks and shoes back on.
Wash the towel before using it again, otherwise you risk spreading the fungus
Step 5. Repeat the treatment twice a day until the symptoms disappear
Nail fungus is difficult to get rid of, so it will take some time. Soak your foot in the vinegar and water solution twice a day. If you notice any improvement after 1-2 weeks, continue. If not, consult a dermatologist to intervene in another way.
- If the nail grows, cut it again so that the vinegar is able to attack the fungus.
- This method may take several months before it gives the desired results. If you are unable to soak your foot a couple of times a day or if the situation does not seem to be improving, consult a dermatologist.
Method 2 of 2: Using Conventional Care
Unfortunately, home remedies, such as soaking in water and vinegar, are not very effective in treating nail fungus. No doubt it's a hassle, but there are better alternatives if you see a doctor. Topical creams may work, but oral medications are more effective against nail fungus. Visit a dermatologist and follow his instructions to get rid of the problem for good.
Step 1. Apply antifungal cream
Antifungal creams have a greater effect than soaking in vinegar. Try buying one at a pharmacy and apply it following the instructions on the package insert. Generally they should be used every day, for at least 1-2 weeks. Read the directions and see if it helps you clear the infection.
- Antifungal creams are based on amorolfine, ciclopirox, efinaconazole and tavaborole.
- Shorten your nails so that the active ingredient can reach the fungus.
- Creams are usually not very effective against this type of mycosis because they cannot penetrate the nail. Don't be surprised if you don't notice great results and are forced to consult a dermatologist.
Step 2. Take oral medication as prescribed by the dermatologist
In general, oral medications are the best therapy for onychomycosis because they act on a systemic level. If the infection does not go away with self-medication, make an appointment with the dermatologist. He will examine your nail and prescribe an antifungal medication. Take it as directed for 2-3 months to permanently eradicate the infection.
- The most common antifungal drugs include Lamisil and Sporanox.
- Do not stop taking it before the time indicated. If you stop it before killing the fungus completely, the infection could reoccur.
- On the first appointment, the dermatologist may also trim the nail a little in order to partially remove the pathogen. This surgery can be helpful, but it won't completely heal the infection.
- Antifungal drugs are very strong, so your dermatologist is likely to order you to periodically check your blood tests to make sure your general values are normal. Too much of these medicines could damage the liver.
Step 3. Try medicated nail polish
It is possible that the dermatologist will prescribe this product for you in combination with oral drug therapy. It is a treatment capable of penetrating into the tissues and fighting the fungus. It is usually applied to the nail and left for a week. Then you have to remove it with alcohol and apply a new layer. Continue the treatment for as long as indicated by the dermatologist.
The application process may vary depending on the drug. Follow the instructions provided in the package insert
Health reminder
Although vinegar is a home remedy used for fungal infections, it does not produce the desired effects on the nails. As it cannot penetrate the underlying layers, it is unable to kill the fungus. You can try it if you want, but you won't necessarily get great results. If you do not notice any improvement within 1-2 weeks, consult your dermatologist so that you can treat yourself properly. Even when using creams and medications, it takes a few months for the infection to go away completely, so follow your doctor's instructions to fix the problem.
Advice
There are other home remedies for nail fungus. Even applying Vicks VapoRub once a day can clear the infection
Warnings
- Nail fungus is contagious, so wash any object that comes into contact with the infected foot. Wear socks around the house to avoid passing it on to other people.
- You can also try applying tea tree oil to the infected nail once a day to see if the situation improves.
