Can You Really Get Rid of Fungal Nails? The Truth About Treatments That Work 

The Frustration of Fungal Nails

Fungal nail infections can be incredibly stubborn. You try everything—over-the-counter creams, home remedies, soaking your feet in vinegar—but nothing seems to work. After weeks or even months of treatment, the infection remains, or worse, it returns.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people struggle to find an effective solution to fungal nails. But can you get rid of them for good? To uncover what works, let’s break down the best and worst treatment options, including Class IV Laser therapy, antifungal medications, and home remedies.

Why Are Fungal Nails So Hard to Treat?

Before we dive into treatments, it’s essential to understand why fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) are so persistent:

1. Fungi Live Beneath the Nail – Unlike skin infections, where creams can easily reach the affected area, fungal spores hide under the nail, making topical treatments less effective.

2. Slow Nail Growth – Nails grow slowly, meaning treatments take months to show visible improvements.

3. Reinfection Is Common—Fungal spores thrive in warm, damp environments, such as shoes and socks, increasing the risk of recurrence.

4. Not All Treatments Work for Everyone – The infection's severity, fungus type, and individual health factors can influence treatment success.

The Best Treatment Options: What Works?

1. Class IV Laser Therapy

Class IV Laser Therapy is one of the most advanced and effective treatments for fungal nails. This non-invasive procedure uses laser energy to penetrate the nail and destroy fungal spores at their source.

✅ How It Works: The laser generates heat, disrupting the fungus without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This promotes nail regrowth while eliminating the infection.

✅ Success Rates: Studies show that Class IV laser therapy has up to 82% success rates, making it one of the most reliable treatments available.

✅ Advantages:

• No need for oral medication (which can have side effects).

• Quick sessions with no downtime.

• Effectively treats moderate to severe infections.

⚠️ Limitations:

• Multiple sessions may be required for complete clearance.

• Not typically available on the NHS.

2. Oral Antifungal Medications (Tablets)

Prescription antifungal tablets, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, can effectively treat fungal nail infections from within.

✅ How They Work: These medications circulate through the bloodstream, attacking the fungal infection from the inside out.

✅ Success Rates: Studies show terbinafine has a clearance rate of around 70-80% when taken for three months.

✅ Advantages:

• Highly effective for severe or deeply embedded infections.

• Treats multiple infected nails at once.

⚠️ Limitations:

• Side effects (liver issues, digestive problems, headaches).

• It is not suitable for everyone, especially those with liver conditions.

• Long treatment duration (up to 6 months for complete nail regrowth).

3. Medical-grade topical Antifungals

Topical antifungal treatments, such as medicated lacquers (Amorolfine), can be effective for mild infections.

✅ How They Work: Applied directly to the nail, these treatments gradually weaken the fungal infection.

✅ Success Rates: Studies suggest 50-60% effectiveness, but only for superficial infections.

✅ Advantages:

• Easy to apply.

• Minimal side effects.

⚠️ Limitations:

• It is less effective for moderate to severe infections.

• Requires consistent, long-term use (up to 12 months).

The Worst Treatment Options: What Doesn’t Work?

1. Home Remedies (Vinegar, Tea Tree Oil, Baking Soda)

Many people turn to DIY fungal nail treatments, but do they work?

❌ Vinegar & Baking Soda: No scientific evidence supports their ability to kill nail fungus.

❌ Tea Tree Oil: Some small studies suggest antifungal properties, but effectiveness is inconsistent.

❌ Garlic & Mouthwash: Despite antifungal claims, no solid research proves they work for nail infections.

🚨 Reality Check: Home remedies might slow fungal growth but won’t cure a moderate or severe fungal infection.

2. Over-the-counter creams for Athletes’ Foot

Many assume that standard antifungal creams used for athletes’ feet will also work on nails.

❌ Why They Fail: These creams are designed for skin infections, not for penetrating hard nails.

❌ Low Success Rate: Most over-the-counter creams show little to no improvement for fungal nails.

What’s the Best Treatment for Your Fungal Nails?

The proper treatment depends on the following:

• Severity: Mild infections may respond to topical antifungals, while severe cases need oral medication or laser.

• Your Health History: Oral antifungals may not be an option if you have liver issues.

• How Fast You Want Results: Laser therapy improves quicker than oral and topical treatments.

For Fast, Effective Results:

• Class IV Laser Therapy – Best for moderate to severe infections.

• Oral Antifungals – High success rate but with potential side effects.

• Medical-Grade Topicals – Useful for early-stage infections.

Final Thoughts: Can You Get Rid of Fungal Nails?

Yes—but only with the proper treatment. Fungal nail infections won’t disappear overnight, but by choosing a proven treatment like Class IV Laser Therapy or prescription antifungals, you can eliminate the disease and prevent reinfection.

🚨 Long-term fungal infections won’t go away alone—seek professional advice today.