About Nail Fungal Treatment
A nail fungus infection (onychomycosis) is usually caused by trichophyton rubrum, a dermatophyte that invades the nail bed and underside of the nail plate.
Due to the location of the infection, topical creams are frequently ineffective for many people, and oral medications can lead to health risks such as liver enzyme damage. Medical treatments are only effective in a small percentage of users. The treatment of toenail fungus has previously been very difficult due to the location of the fungus both underneath and inside of the nail. A breakthrough happened when the FDA approved a 1064nM nd:yag laser as suitable for treating nail fungus.
How many treatments do I need?
We recommend a series of 2-4 treatments (depending on skin indications and desired results) usually at 4-week intervals. Pixel™ is often bundled with other light-based therapies to achieve optimum results, including: Photo-rejuvenation, Chemical Peels and other skin tightening procedures.
How do I know I have a nail fungal infection?
We recommend having a consultation with your doctor to diagnose the nail fungal condition. To commence your laser treatment will need a letter from your doctor stating you have a nail fungal infection, you are then ready to book in for your consultation at the clinic. Six or more sessions are often required. If the condition has been there for a long time for example several years it is more difficult to treat.
How should the client / patient prepare the area to be treated?
All treatment areas should be clean. Removal all creams, lotions and nail polish. Patients with thicker nails will need to have the nails pared to allow for better light absorption below the nail. This can be done by purchasing a nail buffer from your local pharmacist and simply buff or file the nail down.
Can the laser specialist use a numbing cream or other anaesthetic to make the procedure more comfortable for the patient?
Topical or local anaesthetics are not advised due to the need for patient feedback during the procedure. The toe nails will feel hot during the treatment, the treatment is described as a slow building heat.
Can the therapist just treat the visibly infected nail?
No, the therapist should treat all the nails on the foot for best results. This is because the fungus that causes onychomycosis and its opaque yellow nails, can remain on the untreated toes and re-infect the treated nails.
Does the patient have to wait for results or will they see them immediately?
It often takes the larger toe nail a full year to completely grow out. Patients may see noticeable results after three months, but some cases may take longer due to slow nail growth.
What can the patient do to make sure they get the best possible outcome?
The patient should follow their laser specialist’s recommendation closely. Patients should keep their feet dry and clean, they should also apply prescribed anti- fungal cream as directed.
Why do we recommend the patient throw away their shoes?
It is not uncommon to recommend that the patient buy new shoes or make use of a device or service provided to disinfect the patient’s current shoes. This is because the fungus that causes the condition can linger in shoes and socks that are not probably disinfected and re-infect the treated nail.
How much does it cost?
- Cost €99 per treatment
- Course of 3 €275
- Course of 6 €400
Nail Fungal Treatment – Before Treatment
Nail Fungal Treatment – After 4 Months / 3 Treatments
Nail Fungal Treatment – Before Treatment
Nail Fungal Treatment – After 2 Months / 4 Treatments
