Nail Fungus Treatment
You no longer have to be embarrassed by your unsightly toenails!
We provide the latest laser technology for toenail fungal issues. Our treatments are highly successful and a painless alternative to medication. Say goodbye to nail fungus.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus is a condition that occurs when a microscopic fungus enters one or more nails. This condition starts off as an infection in the skin but as the nail fungus penetrates deeper into the nail, it may cause the nail to discolour, thicken, and develop crumbling edges.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
The signs of a nail fungus infection are:
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis)
- Debris (dirt, dead skin cells, etc.) under the nail
- Discolouration of the nail (usually white or yellow, sometimes brown)
- Crumbling or destruction of all or part of the nail
- Odour coming from the nail bed
- Thickened and crumbling nails, often with ridges
- Numbness, tingling or pain in or below the nail
- May involve a single nail, but more frequently multiple nails
- Fungal infections affect toenails more often than fingernails, as fungi grow better in a warm and moist environment (often covered by socks and shoes)
Nail fungus is not simply a cosmetic problem; it is an infection that is contagious and can cause pain, discomfort and issues walking and moving, and could potentially lead to serious complications. Nail fungus infections are most often caused by fungi found in soil and decaying plants. This family of organisms can also cause fungal infections of the skin, and it is possible for a fungal infection to spread from the skin to the nails, or vice versa.
Nail fungus affects about 8% of Canadians.
In 90% of patients, it is caused by fungi (dermatophytes) and less commonly by yeast (Candida).
How can laser therapy treat nail fungus?
At La Unique Laser Centre we take great pride in offering the latest laser treatment for fungal nails. The
treatment is fast, painless, and highly effective. Just ask our Medical Aestheticians or see some of our
before and after photos of the amazing results we have been able to achieve for our clients.
The laser works by passing a light through the toenail to kill the fungus living below the nail. There is no
damage to the nail or surrounding tissue. At the time of the laser treatment the toenail will not become
instantly clear; however, as the toenail starts to grow out, the new healthy nail pushes out the affected
section.
How can you prevent toenail fungus?
Nail Fungus prevention is always important and some of the things to be aware of include:
- Keep your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands and feet regularly. Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Dry well, apply an antifungal foot powder and moisturize your nails. Consider applying a nail hardener, which might help strengthen nails and cuticles.
- Keep your nails trimmed. Cut nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use. Letting your nails grow long creates more places for the fungus to grow.
- Wear absorbent socks or change your socks throughout the day.
- Choose shoes made of materials that breathe.
- Discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders.
- Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms
- Choose a nail salon that uses sterilized manicure tools for each customer. Or disinfect tools you use for home pedicures.
- Give up nail polish and artificial nails.
- If you have athlete’s foot, treat it with an antifungal product.