Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
This fungal infection often causes discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the toenails. While there are various treatments available for toenail fungus, one of the most effective and widely recommended options is Kerydin.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Kerydin for toenail fungus how it works, its benefits, how to use it, and much more.
What Is Kerydin?
Kerydin (generic name: tavaborole) is a topical antifungal medication specifically designed to treat toenail fungus.
It is a prescription-only treatment and is usually recommended when over-the-counter treatments fail to deliver results.
Kerydin is applied directly to the affected toenail and works by inhibiting the growth of the fungus, allowing the nail to heal.
Unlike oral antifungal medications, which can come with a range of side effects, Kerydin is applied directly to the infected area, making it a more targeted and safer option for many people. It is available as a liquid solution, typically in a small bottle with a convenient applicator.
How Kerydin Works to Treat Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that often leads to unsightly nails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, and brittle.
Kerydin (tavaborole) is a topical antifungal medication that effectively treats toenail fungus by targeting the underlying cause of the infection. Here’s how it works
1. Inhibition of Fungal Growth
Kerydin works by disrupting the fungal cell’s ability to grow and reproduce. Specifically, it targets an enzyme known as tRNA synthetase, which plays a crucial role in protein synthesis for the fungus. By blocking this enzyme, Kerydin effectively stops the fungus from producing the proteins it needs to grow and multiply. Without these proteins, the fungal cells cannot continue to thrive or reproduce, allowing the infection to be cleared.
2. Topical Action
Unlike oral antifungal treatments that affect the entire body, Kerydin is applied directly to the infected toenail. This means that the medication is concentrated right where it is needed, which enhances its effectiveness. The topical application also minimizes the risk of systemic side effects that are common with oral medications, such as liver damage or gastrointestinal issues.
3. Penetrating the Nail
Toenail fungus can be difficult to treat because the infection resides beneath the hard, protective surface of the nail. Kerydin is formulated to penetrate the nail plate, reaching the fungus underneath. Once applied, the medication gradually absorbs through the nail and into the nail bed, where the fungus resides. This targeted approach ensures that the infection is treated at its source, leading to better results.
4. Gradual Nail Regrowth
As Kerydin works to kill the fungus, it allows the nail to regrow without the infection. The treatment is gradual, and it can take several months for the infection to fully clear up. During this time, the infected nail slowly grows out, replaced by a healthy, fungus-free nail. This process may take up to 48 weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s nail growth rate.
Benefits of Using Kerydin for Toenail Fungus
Kerydin offers several benefits that make it an attractive choice for people dealing with toenail fungus
Non-Systemic Treatment
- Unlike oral antifungal medications, Kerydin is applied only to the affected nail, which means it doesn’t have the same systemic effects. This reduces the likelihood of side effects such as liver damage or gastrointestinal issues, which are often associated with oral treatments.
Ease of Use
- Kerydin is easy to apply. The liquid formulation comes with an applicator that helps ensure precise application directly to the infected area. This convenience makes it easier for people to incorporate it into their daily routines without much hassle.
Effective Against Resistant Fungal Infections
- Some fungal infections are resistant to over-the-counter treatments, and in these cases, Kerydin can be particularly useful. Its potent antifungal properties make it an effective choice for even persistent and stubborn infections.
Visible Results Over Time
- While Kerydin may take several months to fully show results, its gradual effect allows for continuous nail regrowth. As the infection clears, you can expect the toenail to grow back healthier and free from fungus.
How to Use Kerydin for Toenail Fungus?
Using Kerydin correctly is essential to achieve the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply Kerydin for toenail fungus
- Clean and Dry the Affected Area Before applying Kerydin, wash the affected toenail thoroughly with soap and water. Dry it completely with a clean towel.
- Apply the Solution Use the applicator that comes with the Kerydin bottle to apply a thin layer of the solution to the infected toenail. Be sure to cover the entire nail and any surrounding areas that may be affected by the fungus. Avoid applying excess medication, as a thin layer is sufficient for treatment.
- Allow the Medication to Dry After applying Kerydin, allow the medication to dry completely before putting on socks or shoes. This usually takes about 15 minutes. It’s important not to cover the treated area until it has dried to ensure maximum absorption.
- Use Daily For optimal results, Kerydin should be applied once daily, usually at the same time each day. Consistency is key in ensuring the medication works effectively. Be patient nail fungus can be stubborn, and it may take several months to completely clear up.
- Avoid Nail Polish While undergoing treatment with Kerydin, it’s advisable to avoid using nail polish or other cosmetic products on the affected toenail. These can interfere with the absorption of the medication and potentially slow down the healing process.
Kerydin vs. Other Toenail Fungus Treatments
When comparing Kerydin to other toenail fungus treatments, it stands out for its targeted action and no side effects.
Over-the-counter antifungal creams and lacquers may be useful for mild infections, but they often lack the potency needed for severe or resistant cases.
Kerydin offers a balanced solution, targeting the infection directly with minimal systemic absorption. It’s a good choice for those who want an effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Conclusion
Toenail fungus can be a frustrating condition to deal with, but with the right treatment, it’s possible to restore your nails to their healthy state.
Kerydin is a proven and effective solution for toenail fungus, offering numerous benefits such as ease of use, targeted action, and minimal side effects.
While it may take several months to see complete results, consistent use can lead to healthier nails free from fungus.
With the proper care and treatment, you can regain the confidence to show off your feet once again!