Fungal Nail Laser Treatment
With 3 to 8 out of 100 people in the UK developing a Fungal Nail infection at some stage of their lives, effective treatment if definitely needed to combat this common infection.
As Onychomycosis (fungal nail infections) are contagious and easily spread, it’s important to stop the fungus from spreading.
Here at Senta Bodmin, we offer Nd YAG laser treatment as an effective method for treating nail infections.
Cost
from £10
per session
No. of Sessions
4 to 6 treatments at 4 weekly intervals.
Duration
10-30 mins
What is a fungal nail infection?
This is an infection that affects the keratin (or the hard material) of the nails. It can affect either a part of the nail, or all of it (including the nail plate, nail bed and nail root). The infection develops slowly, resulting in the nail becoming distorted, discoloured and thickened. A fungal nail infection is more commonly found in toenails.
How does the treatment work?
The laser beam is applied to affected toenails and the surrounding skin. The laser energy penetrates through the nail to the nail plate, to destroy the fungus through photo coagulation.
How long will it take to remove the infection?
This is dependent on the size or extremity of the infection. Although our laser fungal nail treatment is extremely effective and competent, it can take numerous sessions to fully eradicate the fungus.
Also, because the infected nail material must grow out naturally, you will not see clear nails until the growth period is complete, this period is therefore dependent on how fast your nail growth is.
Is there anything I can do before the treatment?
Whilst our treatment is effective, it is important to follow these pre-treatment instructions. This is to prevent occurrence of the infection. We suggest that you:
- Regularily cleanse and exfoliate your toes in order to remove any dead skin cells that may be suppressing any fungus. It’s best to also do this the night before your treatment.
- Bring new socks to wear after the treatment so that the treated foot is not affected again by a sock that may contain fungus (which can cause another infection)
- Remove any nail polish you may be wearing on your toes, since the laser cannot penetrate through the nail polish
- Clip your nails to a short manageable length. This can ensure that the treatment is fully effective since the laser can target as much of your infection as possible.
Aftercare and prevention of fungal nail infection
After treatment it is very important to follow good foot-care practices to ensure that the infection cannot become reestablished. Advice includes:
-Keep your feet clean and dry
-Avoid synthetic materials and choose leather shoes with cotton socks to allow your feet to “breathe”
-Ensure shoes fit well
-Change your socks daily – more often if feet are particularly sweaty (or after exercise/damp)
-Keep toenails short
-Never share toenail clippers, towels, shoes or socks
-Buy new nail care equipment and throw out your old ones (as they may be infected) – this included nail varnishes.
-Do not walk around barefoot in public places (swimming pools, showers, changing rooms) – wear flip flops or similar
-Treat athlete’s foot, as this can spread to the nails
-Treat any early signs of recurring fungal nail infection as early as possible to avoid it becoming entrenched. The sooner it is treated, the better the result will be.
Benefits of laser fungal nail treatment.
Fast and easy – treatment is very quick.
Medication-free – there is no need for unpleasant medications or irritating topical treatments.
Pain-free – the laser does not hurt. It gradually heats up the affected area and If it becomes too hot, we simply stop for a couple of seconds.
No side-effects – there is no risk of long-term side effects.
Is it suitable for everyone?
-Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or anyone under 18 years old.
-Suitable for diabetics
-Not recommended for anyone undergoing any cancer treatments
-Suitable for men and women