Remedies and treatments for onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nails, making them thick, brittle, discolored, and sometimes painful. This condition can affect both fingernails and toenails and is often caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. Treatment requires time and perseverance, as the fungi nest under the nail and require specific therapies. Here are the main remedies and treatments for onychomycosis, divided into medications, cosmetic treatments, natural remedies, and supplements.

Over-the-counter medications for onychomycosis
Over-the-counter medications are the first approach to treating mild to moderate fungal infections:

- Antifungal nail polishes: Products containing ciclopirox or amorolfine penetrate the nail and fight infection. They must be applied regularly for several weeks or months.
- Antifungal creams: useful for treating the skin around the nail, especially in the presence of superficial infections.
- Antifungal powders or sprays: These prevent the spread of infection to your feet or shoes.

In more severe cases, treatment with oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor may be necessary.

Cosmetics for onychomycosis
Caring for the appearance of your nails can reduce the aesthetic discomfort associated with onychomycosis and prevent complications:

- Disposable files: allow you to gently remove thickened or damaged parts of the nail without the risk of contamination.
- Emollient treatments: Urea-based creams can soften thickened nails, making them easier to care for.
- Nail hygiene: It is essential to keep nails short, clean, and dry to prevent the infection from worsening.

Wearing breathable shoes and cotton socks helps keep the environment dry, which is unfavorable for the proliferation of fungi.

Natural remedies for onychomycosis
Among the natural remedies and cures for onychomycosis, some treatments can offer useful support:

- Tea tree essential oil: applied directly to the nail, it has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Apple cider vinegar: thanks to its acidic pH, it creates an unfavorable environment for fungal growth. It can be used as a foot bath diluted in warm water.
- Garlic: Known for its antifungal properties, it can be applied in paste form directly to the infected nail.
- Sodium bicarbonate: used in foot baths, it helps keep the foot dry and reduce humidity.

These remedies are most effective in the early stages of infection or as a complement to drug treatments.

Specific supplements for onychomycosis
Supplements can support the treatment of onychomycosis by improving nail health and strengthening the immune system:

- Biotin: promotes the growth of stronger, healthier nails.
- Zinc: helps regenerate damaged nails.
- Probiotics: improve the health of the microbiota, strengthening the natural defenses against fungal infections.
- Vitamin D: supports the immune system and promotes skin health.

Consult a doctor or nutritionist to choose the supplements best suited to your needs.

Conclusions
Onychomycosis requires specific treatments and careful management to ensure complete recovery. Remedies and treatments for onychomycosis include antifungal nail polish, natural remedies such as tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar, and nail-strengthening supplements. Maintaining good hygiene and consistently following treatment are essential to prevent recurrences. In cases of severe or persistent infections, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized treatment, which may include oral medications or procedures such as laser.