Therapy of advanced forms of nail fungus takes more than a year. However, at the initial stage, the disease can be treated faster. To do this, he created varnishes from the nail fungus on the hands and feet.
Treatment of nails affected by fungus with varnish: indications and approach
Antifungal varnish is a tool that has recently become relevant in the fight against nail fungus in the initial stages of infection, that is, in cases where the plate is less than 50% damaged.
The tool is convenient and practical: unlike ointments, it does not wipe off and does not wash off after drying.
However, antifungal nail polish is indicated only in 2 cases:
- At the initial stage of the disease, when up to 30% of the plate is affected and no more than 3 nails on one leg, arm. With more extensive and deeper foci, antifungal tablets cannot be dispensed with.
- For the prevention of onychomycosis. The coating reliably protects the nails against reinfection.
The drug can be prescribed for self-therapy or as part of complex treatment.
How does antifungal varnish work?
Varnish for the treatment of fungus on the nails of the legs and hands has a liquid structure, is quickly absorbed and penetrates even into microcracks. The active substance begins to destroy the cell membrane, enzymes and spores of the pathogen. After hardening, the coating clogs the plate and prevents oxygen from escaping. Without the basis of vital activity, the fungi cease to multiply and gradually die.
Mycologists also prescribe a fungal prevention remedy, especially for people with excessive sweating and after acrylic extensions. The resulting protective film prevents moisture, fungus and infection from entering the nail. Also, alcohol, oils and plant extracts in the composition are disinfected and dried.
Treatment Efficacy
Varnishes from nail fungus are effective only for the prevention and treatment of onychomycosis at the initial stage. The drug forms a protective layer, quickly eliminates the infection and prevents the appearance of a new one. Full recovery occurs after 3 months of therapy, the first results are noticeable after 7-10 days.
A couple of weeks after the end of treatment, tests are necessary. A laboratory test will show if the infection is completely eliminated and if a second course is needed.
Before buying a product, consult a mycologist or dermatologist. The specialist will assess the degree and depth of the injury, determine the stage and prescribe a suitable varnish for toenail or fingernail fungus.
How to apply the varnish in the treatment of nail fungus?
The frequency of use of a particular tool is indicated in the instructions. As a rule, in the first month, nails are painted once every 2 days, in the second - twice a week, in the third - once a week. Therapy is carried out until the growth of a healthy plaque.
Lacquer against fungus on the nails of the legs and hands is applied according to the following scheme:
- Preliminary processing. Before treatment, feet or hands are steamed in a soda salt bath, thoroughly washed with soap and water. Then dry the surfaces and perform a hygienic pedicure or manicure. The nails are trimmed, the top layer is polished with a nail file and wiped with alcohol.
- Application of funds. Nail polish from the fungus is applied with a brush or spatula on dry plates. Actions are performed slowly and carefully so as not to damage the surrounding skin. In this case, the composition should cover the entire nail area.
- Post processing. The applied medication should not be removed until the next procedure. However, after 10 minutes, after complete drying, decorative varnish can be applied to the healing varnish. Whether the manufacturer allows this possibility is indicated in the instructions.
Contraindications
Therapeutic nail polish from the fungus is not absorbed into the bloodstream and cannot lead to intoxication. However, the remedy is contraindicated in:
- individual intolerance to the components;
- propensity to allergic reactions;
- increased skin sensitivity;
- children under 16 years of age;
- pregnancy and lactation.
Varnishes are prescribed with caution in diabetes mellitus, diseases of the immune system.
Side effects
Varnish for the treatment of fungus on the nails of the feet and hands rarely causes adverse reactions. In case of accidental contact with the skin, it can manifest itself:
- fire;
- redness;
- peeling;
- swelling;
- irritation;
- Itch.
If an allergic reaction occurs, it is worth choosing an analogue with another active substance.
Attention! Nail fungus varnish reduces the effectiveness of combined contraceptives.
Prevention
After a complete recovery, the patient is often re-infected with the fungus. To avoid recurrence, it is necessary to cover the nails with varnish within a month after the completion of treatment.
Due attention should be paid to hygiene: wash your feet and hands daily, change your socks, dry your shoes. Towels and slippers must be individual.
Remember – even the best nail fungus polish requires regular application. Without re-treating, the coating will gradually wash off. As a result, there will be soil conducive to the development of fungi.
In conclusion, it should be said that in case of symptoms of nail damage from a fungal infection, and especially if this is accompanied by favorable factors, you should seek qualified medical help.
Setting experiments by self-selection of means of therapy will not only not help in any way, but will also aggravate the existing situation. Getting a present in the form of nail fungus is very simple, but it is quite difficult to cure it. Therapy is time-consuming and often complex, so you should not start the course of the disease by self-medication.