Fungal toenail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can be difficult to treat effectively. While antifungal creams, such as those containing terbinafine, can help in mild cases, the success of these treatments depends on the severity of the infection and how deeply it has penetrated the nail.
Topical antifungal creams, often referred to as “fungus cream for toenails” or “cream for fungus on toenail,” target the fungus on the nail’s surface. Terbinafine, a common active ingredient, has shown some success in treating toenail fungus. However, since toenail fungus often embeds itself deep within the nail and nail bed, topical treatments may struggle to reach the entire infected area.
For early-stage or mild infections, consistent use of antifungal cream can sometimes help clear the infection. However, treatment can take weeks or months, as fungal infections are stubborn. Keeping feet clean and dry also aids the healing process.
For more severe infections, where creams alone might not be effective, oral antifungal medications or a combination of oral and topical treatments may be recommended. In recent years, laser treatment has emerged as one of the most promising options for stubborn fungal toenail infections. Laser therapy targets the fungus directly with concentrated light, penetrating the nail without causing damage to surrounding tissues. Many patients find laser treatment to be effective, especially for infections that don’t respond to other methods.
While antifungal creams can be part of a treatment plan, especially for milder infections, laser treatment may offer the best results for more persistent fungal toenail infections. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on the infection’s severity.
