Fungal nail infections can cause toenails or fingernails to become thickened, discoloured, brittle or distorted, often making them difficult to manage and affecting the overall appearance of the nail. Infections can persist for long periods and may not resolve without appropriate treatment.
At Empress Lasers, we provide professional laser fungal nail treatment for suitable clients. Laser energy is carefully directed through the affected nail and into the nail bed, targeting the area affected by the fungal infection without the need to remove the nail. Treatment is tailored to the individual condition of your nails following an initial assessment.
Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, develop when fungi infect the nail or surrounding nail structures. Toenails are particularly susceptible because fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, although fingernails can also be affected.
An infected nail may gradually change in colour, thickness and texture, becoming yellow, white or brown, brittle or increasingly difficult to trim. As fungal nail infections can resemble other nail conditions, an appropriate assessment is important before beginning treatment. Once suitability has been established, laser treatment provides a targeted option for addressing the affected nail while leaving the surrounding tissue intact.
Laser fungal nail treatment uses controlled light energy directed through the nail towards the affected area. The energy generates heat within the targeted tissue, creating conditions intended to disrupt the fungus while preserving the nail and surrounding skin. The treatment is performed externally, so there is no need for surgical removal of the affected nail. Improvement is not immediate because laser treatment cannot replace an already damaged section of nail.
Instead, the appearance of the nail can gradually improve as healthier nail grows forward and the damaged portion is progressively trimmed away. Nails grow slowly, particularly toenails, so this process takes time. Some fungal infections may also require multiple treatment sessions, with your practitioner recommending an appropriate programme based on the extent of the infection and your response.
Fungal nail infections are caused by fungi entering the nail, often through tiny cracks or areas of damaged skin around it. Warm, damp environments provide favourable conditions for fungal growth, making toenails particularly susceptible. The infection may begin at the edge of the nail before gradually spreading further into the nail plate and nail bed.
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing a fungal nail infection, including frequently wearing enclosed footwear, having persistently damp feet, walking barefoot in communal changing areas or swimming facilities, previous nail damage and having athlete's foot. Fungal infections can also spread between nails, so addressing the problem and following appropriate hygiene advice can be an important part of managing the condition.
Fungal nail treatment may be suitable for concerns including:
Fungal nail infections can be persistent, and visible improvement takes longer than with many other treatments because a healthier nail needs time to grow. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about laser fungal nail treatment.
A fungal nail infection occurs when fungi infect the nail, potentially causing changes in its colour, thickness, shape and texture. The medical term for a fungal nail infection is onychomycosis.
Common signs can include yellow, white or brown discolouration, thickening, brittleness, crumbling or changes to the shape of the nail. However, other nail conditions can produce similar symptoms, so changes in a nail should not automatically be assumed to be fungal.
Laser energy is directed through the affected nail towards the underlying area, producing controlled heat intended to target the fungal infection. Treatment is performed without surgically removing the nail.
You may notice warmth or a heating sensation during treatment. Individual experiences vary according to the nail and treatment required, and your practitioner will explain what you can expect before the procedure begins.
Treatment requirements vary according to the number of nails involved, the extent of the infection and how the individual responds. Some clients may require a course of treatment rather than a single appointment.
Results take time because the damaged portion of the nail needs to grow out. You may gradually notice healthier-looking nail emerging from the base, but complete nail growth can take several months, particularly for toenails.
No. Existing discolouration, thickening or damage will not disappear immediately following laser treatment. The appearance improves gradually as new nail grows and the older damaged section moves forward.
Ready to start your journey? Book your complimentary, no-obligation consultation today. Our practitioners will assess your skin, answer your questions, and design a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
