We understand that nail fungus isn’t the most glamorous of topics. If you have it, it’s not something you want to shout from the rooftops. And you probably wouldn’t want to ask your friends for advice about it either. Luckily, we have done the work for you. In reviewing over 30 nail fungus treatments that all claim to be the “best”, we’ve narrowed down the search to our top 3 topical treatments. We’ve honed in on these treatment methods based on quality of ingredients, user satisfaction, and overall value.

Before we jump into the goods, let’s take a look at the basics surrounding nail fungus. Learn a bit about the condition: the causes, types of fungus, and risk factors. Then we can get a better understanding of what we’re dealing with, so you can better tackle the problem.

THE RIGHT METHODS AND TREATMENTS WILL ACTUALLY WORK

Simply put, nail fungus or onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the finger and toe-nails. Symptoms include white or yellow spots showing under the nail.¹ However, the condition is usually subtle that it often goes unnoticed during the early stages. As the fungal growth spreads, the nail can become brittle and discolored (typically white or yellow), leading to pain and foul-smelling feet.

Nail fungus will manifest from microorganisms that often proliferate with beneficial bacteria.² The most common type of perpetrator is known as dermatophytes, which tend to thrive in warm and moist environments. Under the right conditions, these fungi can start to overgrow under the nail bed leading to an unsightly infection.

In most cases, nail fungus begins on the big toenail - typically at the front or side of the nail. The infection can also start at the nail base (usually occurs when immunocompromised). The fungal infection then progresses slowly over time spreading from one nail to another.

Nail fungus can affect people of all ages, although it’s more common among older adults. Around half of people over age 70 struggle with fungal nail infections so it’s nothing to be ashamed of.³

Significant risk factors that make one susceptible to nail fungus infections include:

• Poor circulation from old age; less blood flowing through the nail beds.
• Overactive sweat glands, build-up of moisture without ventilation.
• Pre-existing conditions, such as, Eczema, athlete’s foot, and other types of fungal infections.
• Pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes and others that adversely affect the immune system.
• Exposure to other infected individuals via communal places like public swimming pools, fitness studios, and locker rooms.
• Those prone to nail injuries may also have a greater exposure to micro-biomes resulting in nail fungus.

UNDECYLENIC ACID AND THE LATEST NAIL FUNGUS RESEARCH

Undecylenic Acid is an over the counter topical treatment that is used in a variety of fungal treatments, including nail fungus. It is an unsaturated fatty acid (as opposed to glycolic or salicylic) and naturally occurs in the body.⁴ It can also be found in oral supplements which are known to help with gut health, and has good probiotic properties, although please be advised that the topical treatments we are discussing should never be ingested orally.

Undecylenic Acid works by preventing Candida Albicans, a yeast that can live on the skin, from transforming into a nail fungus.⁴ It is also thought to have fungicidal properties, meaning it can kill fungus that already exists as well as prevent future fungus. Prescription levels of 25% are thought to be most effective, but lower concentrations can be found over the counter. Side effects include minor irritation and redness, which can lead to pain and inflammation, so be sure to consult your physician prior to use as some people are allergic to the ingredient itself.

HOW AND HOW OFTEN YOU APPLY IT REALLY MATTERS

Finding the right treatment is just half the battle. Once you’ve got the goods, the frequency and manner in which you apply the topical treatment can greatly affect the success you have in alleviating your symptoms.

Most studies recommend that a topical treatment should be applied to the affected area twice daily. It is important that the area of contact has been cleaned and dried prior to application. Hydrogen Peroxide or simple soap and water are the best options to make sure the area is clean. When the topical solution is applied, make sure that you don’t rub it in too hard, as this can create excessive irritation on the skin. There is also an accepted knowledge that ingesting dairy products during treatments can hinder the effectiveness of the antifungal properties in the topical solutions.

Our Ranking Methodology

This comprehensive list was made after extensive research and analysis, measuring the full value of each product by considering the ingredients, safety, efficacy, refund and return policies, and overall customer satisfaction. We also collect research from the latest studies and clinical trials to ensure that our criteria take into account the most important details, presenting you with the results, and, in the process, saving you time and money.

2024 BEST TOPICAL NAIL FUNGUS TREATMENT REVIEW

After extensive data gathering, we proudly present to you our compiled list for the most effective topical nail fungus treatment available on the market today. The research includes precise scoring for key ingredients, customer satisfaction, value, return policy, and history along with the average grades of the overall 30 topical nail fungus treatment product sample. To paint the whole picture, we have also listed down the pros and cons, and identified the total ranking and overall grade.