Fungal Nail Infection
What is Onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails. The infected nail becomes thickened, discoloured (yellow) and often crumbly, it becomes impossible to cut down and takes on a unique odour. Laser treatment of fungal nail infection is quick, painless, minimum downtime and without any side-effects. It produces impressive results when compared to alternative treatments such as oral medications, topical treatments or home remedies. It even works for some types of fungus that are resistant to tablet treatment. Tablets commonly cause side-effects and for some people require blood test monitoring in case of drug-induced liver inflammation.

                                 

How it works

Our Candela Pro Plus, Nd:Yag 1064 nm wavelength, passes through the nail to the fungus underneath, without causing any damage to the surrounding skin. As the fungus absorbs the energy a rapid increase in temperature occurs, targeting the fungus and getting to the source of the problem immediately. Unlike topical therapies, the light can penetrate through the toenail to reach the fungus. A course of 4 treatments (one every 4 weeks) has over an 80% success rate and several nails can be treated at each treatment session. The most severe infections may require multiple treatments. Due to slow nail growth, results may not be noticeable for 3+ months. Toenails may take 9-12+ months and fingernails may take 6-9+ months to grow out (nails grow quicker in summer)

Preparation
  • Clip your nails as far down as comfortable before your appointment.
  • File the surface of the nail to create a rough surface. During Onychomycosis the nail will become deformed, overgrown and thickened.
  • Filing down the nail allows laser light to fully penetrate into the treatment site.
  • Clean hands or feet to remove any dead skin that may be harbouring fungus.
  • Remove nail polish thoroughly before treatment.
  • Always bring a clean pair of socks to your appointment.
  • Wash sheets, disinfect shower/bath and vacuum carpets day of treatment.

It is the responsibility of the client to remove his or her own nail varnish completely before treatment.

Aftercare

To help prevent re-infection:

  • Wear fresh socks daily.
  • Apply anti-fungal cream once per day for approximately 2 weeks to 3 months, depending on the severity of the infection.
  • Apply anti-fungal spray to all shoes once a week for at least one month.
  • Keep nails trimmed and cleaned (disinfecting instruments after each use).
  • Do not walk barefoot in public places (pool, gym, etc.).
  • Nail polish may be applied 24 hours after treatment
  • If a blister develops, treat it as a wound.
  • We will also provide you with advice to prevent re-infection