Laser Onychomycosis (Nail Fungal) Treatment
Laser Onychomycosis (Nail Fungal) Treatment
Laser Onychomycosis Treatment vs. Over-the-Counter Fungal Nail Products: Which Works Best?
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) can be stubborn, unsightly, and difficult to treat. Many people try over-the-counter (OTC) creams, polishes, and sprays, only to see minimal results. That’s why laser treatment has become a popular alternative—promising faster, more effective results without the hassle of daily applications.
But is laser therapy really better than OTC treatments? Let’s compare both options so you can make an informed choice.
What Is Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus)?
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the toenails or fingernails, causing:
Yellowing, thickening, or brittleness
Discoloration (white, yellow, or brown spots)
Crumbly or distorted nail shape
Odour or debris buildup under the nail
It thrives in warm, moist environments like public showers, gyms, and tight shoes, making it common but tricky to treat.
Option 1: Over-the-Counter (OTC) Fungal Nail Treatments
OTC treatments include antifungal creams, lacquers, and sprays containing active ingredients like:
Clotrimazole – Antifungal agent in many topical creams.
Terbinafine (Lamisil) – Found in nail polishes and creams.
Tolnaftate – Common in foot sprays and powders.
Pros of OTC Treatments
Easily accessible – Available at pharmacies without a prescription.
Affordable – Prices range from £10–£50 per product.
Can be effective for mild cases – If caught early, OTC treatments may work.
Cons of OTC Treatments
Limited penetration – Fungus hides under the nail, making topical treatments ineffective for moderate to severe cases.
Requires daily application – Can take 6–12 months to see improvement.
High failure rate – Many people see no significant improvement even after months of use.
OTC treatments may work for mild infections but often fail when the fungus has spread deeper into the nail bed.
Option 2: Laser Treatment for Onychomycosis
Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused light energy to target and destroy fungal infections deep within the nail. It penetrates the nail plate, killing the fungus without harming surrounding tissue.
Pros of Laser Treatment
Highly effective – Studies show 70–90% success rates, much higher than OTC treatments.
Quick & painless – Sessions take 15–30 minutes, with no need for anesthesia.
No daily application required – Unlike creams, you don’t have to remember to apply anything.
No damage to the nail – Unlike oral medications, there’s no liver toxicity risk.
Can be combined with other treatments – Works alongside antifungal creams for better results.
Cons of Laser Treatment
Multiple sessions may be needed – Usually 1–3 treatments, spaced weeks apart.
More expensive per session.
Not always covered by insurance – Considered a cosmetic treatment in many cases.
Laser treatment is especially effective for moderate to severe infections, where OTC options typically fail.
Which Treatment Is Best for You?
If you have early-stage fungus, an OTC treatment may be enough. However, if you’ve been battling a persistent infection for months (or years), laser therapy offers a faster and more reliable solution.
Final Verdict: Is Laser Therapy Worth It?
If you’ve tried OTC treatments with no success, laser therapy is a great alternative.
If you want faster results, laser is the best option for reducing fungal infections.
If you have a severe infection, OTC products likely won’t work, making laser the better investment.
Struggling with Nail Fungus? Here’s How Laser Treatment Can Help!
Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common but stubborn condition that can leave toenails and fingernails discolored, thickened, and brittle. If you’ve tried over-the-counter creams, prescription medications, or home remedies with little success, you’re not alone—fungal infections can be notoriously difficult to treat.
Fortunately, laser treatment for onychomycosis offers a revolutionary, non-invasive solution for eliminating nail fungus effectively and safely. Let’s explore how it works, its benefits, and why it might be the best option for restoring healthy nails.
What is Laser Onychomycosis Treatment?
Laser treatment for nail fungus is a non-invasive, FDA-approved procedure that uses focused laser energy to target and destroy fungal infections beneath the nail—without damaging the surrounding skin or tissue.
Unlike topical treatments that struggle to penetrate the nail or oral medications that come with potential side effects, laser therapy goes straight to the source of the infection, making it an effective and safe alternative.
How Does Laser Treatment Work?
During the procedure:
A specialized laser is directed at the affected nail(s).
The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that penetrates the nail and reaches the fungus.
The heat from the laser destroys fungal cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
Over time, as the infected nail grows out, a new, healthy nail emerges.
A session typically lasts 10–30 minutes, depending on the number of nails being treated. Most patients require 3–5 sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, for optimal results.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Nail Fungus Treatment?
Non-Invasive & Painless – No surgery, needles, or downtime required.
High Success Rate – More effective than topical treatments and safer than oral medications.
No Side Effects – Unlike antifungal pills, which can affect the liver, laser therapy is safe for all ages.
Quick Treatment Time – Sessions take only 10–30 minutes, and you can resume daily activities immediately.
Improves Nail Appearance Over Time – As the new nail grows in, the discoloration and thickening gradually disappear.
Is Laser Treatment Right for You?
Laser onychomycosis treatment is ideal for individuals who:
Have persistent nail fungus that hasn’t responded to creams or medications.
Want to avoid the risks of oral antifungal drugs (which can affect liver function).
Prefer a quick, non-invasive solution with minimal discomfort.
However, results can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual nail growth rates. While laser treatment kills the fungus, it does not instantly restore the nail—you will need to wait for healthy new nail growth to fully replace the infected area.
What to Expect After Treatment
After a laser session, there is no downtime—you can go back to your normal routine immediately. Some patients notice improvements within a few weeks, but full results can take 6–12 months, as the nail needs time to grow out completely.
To prevent reinfection, it’s important to:
Keep your feet clean and dry.
Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks.
Disinfect your shoes and nail clippers.
Avoid walking barefoot in public places like gyms and swimming pools.
Final Thoughts: Is Laser Therapy the Best Option for Nail Fungus?
If you’re tired of ineffective creams and don’t want the risks of oral medication, laser treatment offers a safe, effective, and convenient alternative for eliminating nail fungus. With no downtime, no side effects, and a high success rate, it’s a game-changer for anyone struggling with persistent fungal infections.
Want to learn more? Schedule a consultation with a specialist to see if laser nail fungus treatment is right for you!
Laser Nail Fungal Removal
April Offers End 30/04/25
We guarantee you will be pleased with the long lasting results that we will help you achieve.
Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus) can be eliminated with just one treatment,
however, sometimes a second or third treatment maybe advised.
