The treatment of advanced forms of nail fungus takes more than a year. However, in the initial stage, the disease can heal faster. To do this, created nail polish from nail fungus on the hands and feet.
Treatment of fungus-affected nails with varnish: indications and approach
![how to treat toenail fungus](/images/article/687/how%20to%20treat%20toenail%20fungus.jpg)
Antifungal varnish is a tool that has recently become relevant in the fight against nail fungus in the early stages of infection, ie in cases where the plate is less than 50% damaged.
The tool is convenient and practical: unlike ointments, it does not rub and does not wash off after drying.
However, antifungal nail polish is shown in only 2 cases:
- In the initial stage of the disease, when it affects up to 30% of the plate and no more than 3 nails on one foot, hand. In larger and deeper foci, antifungal tablets cannot be avoided.
- For the prevention of onychomycosis. The coating reliably protects the nails from re-infection.
The drug can be prescribed for self-medication or as part of a complex treatment.
How does antifungal varnish work?
The nail polish for fungus on the nails of the feet and hands has a liquid structure, is quickly absorbed and penetrates even into microcracks. The active substance begins to destroy the cell membrane, enzymes and spores of the pathogen. After curing, the coating clogs the plate, prevents the leakage of oxygen. Left without a basis for vital activity, the fungi stop multiplying and gradually die.
Mycologists also prescribe a means of preventing fungus, especially for people with excessive sweating and after acrylic extensions. The resulting protective film prevents the ingress of moisture, fungus, infections into the nail. In addition, the alcohol, oils and plant extracts in the composition are disinfected and dried.
Effectiveness of treatment
Nail fungus varnishes are effective only for the prevention and treatment of onychomycosis in the initial stage. The drug forms a protective coating, quickly eliminates the infection and prevents the appearance of new ones. Full recovery occurs after 3 months of therapy, the first results are seen after 7-10 days.
Tests should be performed a few weeks after the end of treatment. A laboratory test will show if the infection is completely eliminated and if a second course is needed.
Before buying a product, consult a mycologist or dermatologist. The specialist will assess the extent and depth of the lesion, determine the stage and prescribe a suitable nail polish for toenail fungus or toenails.
How to apply nail polish in the treatment of nail fungus?
The frequency of use of a particular tool is specified in the instructions. As a rule, in the first month the nails are varnished once every 2 days, in the second - twice a week, in the third - once a week. The therapy is carried out until the growth of a healthy plate.
![applying nail polish to treat nail fungus](/images/article/687/applying%20nail%20polish%20to%20treat%20nail%20fungus.jpg)
Nail polish on the nails of the feet and hands is applied according to the following scheme:
- Pre-treatment. Before treatment, feet or hands are steamed in a bath of soda and salt, washed thoroughly with soap and water. Then wipe the surfaces dry and do a hygienic pedicure or manicure. The nails are trimmed, the top layer is polished with a nail file and wiped with alcohol.
- Application of funds. Fungus nail polish is applied with a brush or spatula on dry tiles. The actions are performed slowly and carefully so as not to hurt the surrounding skin. In this case, the composition should cover the entire area of the nail.
- Subsequent processing. The applied medicine should not be removed until the next procedure. However, after 10 minutes, after complete drying, a decorative varnish can be applied on the healing varnish. Whether the manufacturer allows this option is specified in the instructions.
Contraindications
Therapeutic nail polish from the fungus is not absorbed into the blood and can not provoke intoxication. However, the drug is contraindicated in:
- individual intolerance to the components;
- susceptibility to allergic reactions;
- hypersensitivity of the skin;
- children under 16;
- pregnancy and lactation.
Varnishes are prescribed with caution in diabetes, diseases of the immune system.
Side Effects
Varnish for the treatment of fungus on the nails and hands rarely causes side effects. In case of accidental skin contact, the following may occur:
- burning;
- redness;
- peeling;
- puffiness;
- irritation;
- itching.
If an allergic reaction occurs, it is worth choosing an analogue with another active substance.
Attention! Nail fungus polish reduces the effectiveness of combined contraceptives.
Prevention
![healthy nails after nail polish treatment](/images/article/687/healthy%20nails%20after%20nail%20polish%20treatment.jpg)
After complete recovery, the patient is often re-infected with the fungus. To avoid recurrence, it is necessary to cover the nails with varnish within a month after treatment.
The necessary attention should be paid to hygiene: wash feet and hands daily, change socks, dry shoes. Towels and slippers must be individual.
Remember: even the best nail polish requires regular application. Without re-treatment, the coating will gradually wash off. As a result, there will be favorable soil for the development of fungi.
In conclusion, it should be said that in case of symptoms of nail damage from a fungal infection and especially if it is accompanied by favorable factors, you should seek qualified medical help.
Conducting experiments through self-selection of means of therapy will not only not help in any way, but will also worsen the existing situation. Getting a gift in the form of nail fungus is very simple, but quite difficult to cure. Therapy is time consuming and often complicated, so you should not start the course of the disease with self-medication.