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Topical Treatment for Toenail Fungus

Individuals who suffer with toenail fungus can seek relief from a topical treatment that is designed to get rid of fungus and promote the growth of a healthy nail. These options vary from natural or synthetic treatments to availability by prescription or over-the-counter. Overall, topical treatment can be a slow and arduous process, depending on the severity of the fungus, but should be followed through for optimal results and eventually fungal free nails.

  1. Penlac Ciclopirox Lacquer

    • Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Ciclopirox is an anti-fungal topical treatment that is designed to stop the growth of fungus in the nail bed. The solution is applied similar to a nail polish via a brush, where the infected nail is coated once a day and removed after seven days. This topical solution is only available by a prescription and can lessen the appearance of thick and discolored nails while treating fungus.

    Curanail

    • Curanail, a topical nail lacquer contains the powerful chemical and anti-fungal agent Amorolfine. Designed to treat mild to moderate toenail fungus, Curanail is available over-the-counter and can prevent fungus from spreading while destroying it in the root of the nail bed. Curnail should be applied to the surface of the entire nail every day. Sufferers of toenail fungus generally see results in nine to 12 months.

    Nail-Rx

    • Nail-Rx is a natural topical solution that contains the anti-fugal agents tea tree oil and clove oil to prevent and combat toenail fungus. This topical cream can be applied to the entire nail, three times a day where results are generally seen after six months.

    Canesten Cream

    • Available over-the-counter, Canesten cream is an effective treatment used to assist with nail fungus. This topical cream contains the anti-fungal ingredient Clotrimazole that can combat fungus and yeast in the toes while preventing fungus from re-growing. A thin layer of Canesten cream can be applied several times a day, on top and beneath the nail. Results are generally seen after two weeks, but can take up to six months before the infection is gone.

    ZetaClear

    • A topical homeopathic cream, ZetaClear is registered with the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of toenail fungus. Touted as a formula that contains natural properties, ZetaClear is designed to reduce the effects of irritation and redness from over-the-counter products, while it strengthens the nail and destroys fungus. Generally, results are seen after six weeks, but severe cases may take up to four months.

    Listerine

    • Fighting toenail infection can also be done with the antiseptic Listerine. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine is also an effective way to fight mild toenail fungus. The infected foot can be placed in a bowl and soaked for 30 minutes, it can also be dabbed by a cotton swab, three times a day for results.

    Vick's Vapor Rub

    • A popular home topical treatment, Vick's Vapor Rub contains eucalyptus that is believed to be a natural topical agent used to treat fungus in toenails. Vick's can be applied to the infected area several times a day, where results can be seen in six to 12 months.

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