No-Cost Treatments for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus can be an embarrassing problem, especially in the summer months when many of us opt for toe-baring shoes. Although its a little bit "gross," there are several ways you can treat toenail fungus without having to spend a dime. In fact, toenail fungus is 100% preventable and prevention can be the best form of treatment.

Take Off Your Toenail Polish

• Remove your toenail polish. Most women with toenail fungus want to cover it up and find that a good way to camouflage the problem is by using toenail polish. Sure, it masks the issue but really provides a breeding ground for the fungus. Remove the polish and let your toenails breathe.

Reduce Your Sugar Intake

• Many doctors theorize that increased sugar intake is part of the problem, by making the body a breeding ground for fungus. Try cutting sugar out of your diet.

Trim Your Nails

• Trimming your nails is an important aspect of keeping the fungus at bay. Sometimes, the fungus will grow out with the nail, so it is important to cut your nails regularly as they grow.

Use Good Foot Hygiene

• Many people do not actually wash their feet when taking a shower, which can be a big mistake, especially after a good workout. It is important that you wash between your toes and either wash the washcloth or towel immediately after or use a paper towel.

Prevent It

• Fungus, like athlete's foot, loves a good, warm place to breed. Make sure you're always wearing breathable socks and that you wear flip flops when in public showers or locker rooms. If you share a shower at home with another person, clean the shower with a bleach-based product after each shower.

Household Goods

• Mouthwash products and hydrogen peroxide work to treat toenail fungus. Some swear by soaking their toes in mouthwash for 10 to 15 minutes a day, while others say dropping some hydrogen peroxide on the toenails will help them heal. With the latter, you might lose the toenail, but that will only let your toe breathe and help kill the fungus.