How to Get Rid of Nail Fungus With a Laser

Nail fungus can grow underneath or around your nails. While you can get nail fungus on both your fingernails and toenails, it is more common on the toes. The fungus or bacteria often thrives underneath the nails, since it is protected by them. Since this space underneath the nails is moist and dark, providing conditions under which fungus thrives, it can be difficult to eliminate nail fungus. Thankfully, new laser treatments can get rid of nail fungus fairly easily.

Instructions

1. Know what to expect. During treatment, a licensed practitioner will direct laser light at your nails. The light will penetrate your nails, effectively killing the fungus underneath. The light will also eliminate any fungus around the nail beds. The treatment is generally less than 10 minutes. Since the laser does not damage healthy tissue, the treatment is not painful.

2. Check if your insurance company will cover the cost. Even if your insurance company will cover medication for nail fungus, it may not cover the cost of laser treatment, since most insurance companies consider the laser treatment aesthetic.

3. Expect repeated sessions, if your nail fungus is severe. Most nail fungus cases can be effectively treated in one laser session, but more severe fungus conditions may require multiple sessions. Ask the practitioner to assess your situation.

4. Find a licensed practitioner in your area. Most general laser centers can perform this treatment. Your podiatrist may carry an appropriate laser to perform this treatment.

5. Keep your nails clean and dry after laser treatment. Thoroughly dry your hands as soon as possible, if you have gotten them wet. Nail fungus recurrences are less likely if you do not allow moisture in the area.

Tips & Warnings

• Laser treatment for nail fungus is not effective in all cases. Talk to your practitioner about your case.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Nail doctors