How to Cure Yellow, Thick Nails
Yellow, thick nails are a sign of fungus. Although there are oral medications available with a prescription, there are other ways to cure this problem without putting chemicals into your body. As long as you are persistent with your treatments, your nails can regain a healthy appearance.
Instructions
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Determine how you got the fungus so that you can prevent it from happening in the future. For example, if it's your toenails that are thick and yellow, perhaps you're keeping your sweaty socks on too long after exercising. Resolve to immediately take off your sweaty socks, or use an anti-fungal foot powder after exercising.
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2
Clean your feet or hands thoroughly in a warm bath, or shower and scrub your feet/hands with a separate wash cloth. Use a pedicure soak such as OPI's Pedicure Soak or Qtica's Anti-Bacterial Soak. Use a formula that doesn't just deodorize, but that is anti-bacterial.
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Dry your feet completely after soaking them--ensure you also wipe the moisture from between your toes, since that is how fungus can spread and linger. If it is your hands that have the fungus, wipe between your fingers.
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File down your nails, instead of clipping them. This will help those who have grown thick nails as a result of the fungus. Waiting until after soaking your feet or hands will make the nails easier to file down.
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Apply a topical fungal cream to your hands or feet, such as Fungasil, NonyX or Zetaclear. Ensure that you carefully read the recommended usage directions before applying the treatment.
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Make sure you only wear clean, dry socks, and immediately change socks that are wet or sweaty. If you know you're going to exercise or play sports, take a clean, dry pair of socks with you in your gym bag.
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Continue this routine for two weeks--if you do not see improvement by then, consult with a podiatrist. She may prescribed a stronger, medicated topical treatment. In extreme cases, you could be prescribed an oral medication.
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