FUNGAL NAILS
What causes a nail infection (onychomycosis)?
Fungal nails refers to any number of fungal nail infections that can occur on the foot. Dermatophytes are the fungi most commonly responsible for causing this condition. They are specialized organisms that live off keratin which is the main component of nails and skin. Since fungal nails are usually more resistant and more difficult to treat than Athlete's Foot, topical or oral antifungal medications may be prescribed, but fail to treat the active infection. Permanent nail removal is another possible form of treatment for tenacious fungal nails. Another treatment is with the use of laser light. GenesisPlus is a Nd:YAG 1064nm laser that has been cleared by the FDA to be both safe and effective solution for the treatment of nail infections. To view a video of Genesis Plus customer experience click here.
Genesisplus treatment FAQs
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Treatment Session time |
A single treatment session takes appx. 20mins to treat 5-10 nails. Treatment times will vary, so please ask us for more information. |
| Number of Treatments | Most patients show improvement after one treatment. The required number of treatments wil vary depending on how severly each digit is infected. |
| Before the Procedure | It is important to remove all nail polish and decorations the day before the procedure. |
| During the Procedure | Most patients describe the procedure as being comfortable with a small hot pinch at the end that resolves quickly. |
| After the Procedure | Immediately following the procedure your nail may feel warm for a few minutes. The majority of patients can resume normal activities immediately. |
| Long Term | If the treatment is successful, as the nail grows you will see new, healthy nail. Nails grow slowly, so it may take up to 12 months to see an entirely clear nail |
Other suggestions for preventing fungal nails include:
- Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others.
- Don't share shoes or socks with others.
- Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).
- Wear dry cotton socks and change them two or three times a day if necessary.
- Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).
- Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.
- After fungal infection has resolved continue to keep feet clean. Apply Antifungal powder to dry feet .