Is Hydrogen Peroxide An Effective Treatment For Nail Fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide is a household remedy that is used to disinfect minor scratches and cuts. When used for treating nail fungus, its antifungal properties kill the fungus, letting the damaged part of your nails grow out. The liquid has several uses as an antiseptic, disinfectant, oxidizer, bleaching agent, as well as an antifungal agent (1). Its strong antifungal and antiseptic properties effectively treat nail fungus (2). With regular use, the treatment can heal your nails within weeks or months, depending on the severity of the infection. It is recommended to keep using the treatment for a couple of months after your nail has been restored back to health to prevent future fungal infections. While there are not a lot of scientific studies on this treatment, it is a tried and tested home remedy that is sure to give you optimal results. Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “Regular use of hydrogen peroxide can show improvement in toenail fungus within a few weeks to months, depending on the spread of the infection.” Here, I’ve put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to use hydrogen peroxide to treat nail fungus. How To Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Nail Fungus
1. Soak Your Feet In Hydrogen Peroxide
3% hydrogen peroxide Distilled water Plastic tub Tissues
30 minutes You have to repeat this process every day until, and even after, the problem subsides. Getting rid of nail fungus is not easy and will take a lot of patience and effort. This oxidate therapy using hydrogen peroxide is highly effective when it comes to treating nail fungus. The method involves using the peroxide to soak the infected and affected nails. As the oxygen levels increase, the fungus on your nails gets destroyed.
2. Vinegar And Hydrogen Peroxide For Nail Fungus
3% hydrogen peroxide White vinegar/apple cider vinegar Distilled water Plastic tub Tissues
While method 1 is often quoted as a solution to nail fungus on the internet, we recommend using method 2. This is because under certain conditions, mixing hydrogen peroxide and vinegar can form peracetic acid, which is a caustic chemical that does not share the desired properties to treat nail fungus. Method 1 – 10 minutes Method 2 – 30 minutes You have to repeat this process every day until, and even after, the problem subsides. Getting rid of nail fungus is not easy and will take a lot of patience and effort. Vinegar is an acidic solution that helps relieve itching and restores the pH balance of your skin and nails. These properties help the liquid create an unfavorable environment for the fungi to breed in, killing off the infection. Apple cider vinegar helps reduce inflammation, reducing the pain caused by nail fungus. [Read: Wrinkles Around The Mouth]
3. Baking Soda And Hydrogen Peroxide For Nail Fungus
½ cup baking soda 1 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide ¼ cup white vinegar 4 cups warm water ½ cup Epsom salt Plastic tub Tissues
10 minutes You have to repeat this process every day until, and even after, the problem subsides. Getting rid of nail fungus is not easy and will take a lot of patience and effort. Baking soda contains antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of fungus. This solution helps balance your skin’s pH levels while killing off fungus. Dr. Anna Chacon recommends saturating your toe in the peroxide for 30 minutes. She also adds, “If you do not see results, please visit your local dermatologist and get prescription treatment for your toenail fungus.”
Additional Tips For Treating And Preventing Nail Fungus
Wash and disinfect all of your shoes and socks. Disinfect your nail clippers with hot water and alcohol. Keep your fingers and toes covered when you are outside. Keep your nails short and clean. Thoroughly dry your nails after washing your hands and feet. Spray your gloves and shoes with anti-fungal sprays on a regular basis to kill lingering fungi. Always dry your shoes and socks properly. Moisture is your worst enemy as it creates a breeding ground for fungus.
Side Effects Of Using Hydrogen Peroxide For Nail Fungus Treatment
If you experience any of the following side effects, try using a solution weaker than 2%. You can also try diluting the solution further with water.
Hydrogen peroxide can irritate your skin causing redness, stinging, and mild itching. It may also dry out your skin and cause cracked feet. Peroxide can cause your skin to peel.
How long does hydrogen peroxide take to cure nail fungus? Depending on the severity of the condition, it may take anywhere between a few weeks to several months of regular treatment with hydrogen peroxide to cure nail fungus. What is the fastest way to cure toenail fungus? Oral antifungal drugs are the fastest way to cure toenail fungus. How do I know if my toenail fungus is dying? Diminishing discolored areas on the nail, reduction in the thickness of the nail, new nail growth from the base of the nail, and a clear demarcation line between the old infected nail and the new growth are some signs that the toenail fungus is dying and your nail is healing. What happens to untreated toenail fungus? Untreated toenail fungus may cause serious damage to your nail, widespread infection, and foot pain.
