How to Apply Tea Tree Oil for Toenail Fungus

A fungal infection is one of the most common nail problems. Signs of fungus are discoloration, increased thickness and weakness of the toenail. Toenail fungus is often picked up in damp public places where people go barefoot, such as locker rooms, pools and spas. The infection can be difficult to treat and it can take up to 12 months for the healthy toenail to replace the fungus-infected nail. Tea tree oil is a natural antibiotic used by many people to treat their toenail fungus. The success of this remedy depends on the severity of the infection.

Things You'll Need

• Sterile nail scissors
• Cotton buds
• Tea tree oil
• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Check that your product is 100% pure tea tree oil.

• 2

  Trim your infected nail back with sterile nail scissors.

• 3

  Apply DMSO, a solvent that acts as a carrier and will increase the effectiveness of the tea tree oil. Dip a cotton bud into the tea tree oil and rub gently on the affected area.

• 4

  Apply the oil two or three times per day until the new nail has grown out.