Nail fungus varnishes are an effective form of topical preparation that allows you to quickly cope with fungus, returning your nails to their natural appearance. Effectiveness is associated with the ability of the active substance to penetrate deep into the nail, affecting all layers of the plate. As a result, the fungal spores die without the possibility of relapse.
Advantages and disadvantages
The first advantage of the product is its high effectiveness. Due to its liquid structure, the product penetrates deeply. It completely stops fungal spores. This eliminates the possibility of recurrence of the disease.
Other advantages of this form of release:
- Complete protection. Once the solution dries, a film forms. It does not allow air or humidity to pass through. The film blocks oxygen access to the infected microflora. As a result, the vital activity of microorganisms is suppressed.
- Security. Fungicidal varnishes are characterized by a minimum of adverse reactions.
- Long duration. Medicines are applied several times during the week. If you skip the procedure, its effectiveness will not be greatly affected.
- Versatility. They are effective in the treatment and prevention of onychomycosis. Dermatologists can prescribe remedies to people at risk. These are increased sweating, foot pathologies, specific work.
The disadvantages of toenail fungus polishes include their high cost. Among the components of some varieties there are toxic compounds. They may therefore be undesirable for children. Another limitation may be pregnancy.
General rules of application
Before applying antifungal nail polish, you should rinse the problem area thoroughly. For treatment, use laundry soap or an antibacterial agent.
Important!
The surface of the nail plate must be degreased. To do this, use the product in combination with an antifungal nail polish.
It is acceptable to use diluted alcohol or iodine.
The following is recommended:
- Dry your feet thoroughly and wipe your nail plates. Then they are sanded with a nail file. It is important that the nail is not long. It must be pruned as carefully as possible;
- Apply the product in a thin layer. The required frequency of application is indicated in the instructions for use;
- Wait for the composition to dry;
- Disinfect all pedicure tools. This applies to nail files and scissors. In this case, it will be possible to avoid relapse of the disease and secondary infection with the fungus.
There are no antifungal colored nail polishes. Can be applied under cosmetic varnish. To do this, the plate must be strong, and the stage of the fungus must be initial or medium.
Contraindications
Use not recommended during pregnancy. The same goes for the breastfeeding period. Another limitation concerns children under four years old.
It is undesirable to use it if you have individual intolerance to the components. In such cases, you should first consult a cosmetologist or dermatologist.
For cuts, burns, scratches or other damage to the skin around the nail, do not use varnish.
Contraindications to the use of antifungal varnish
List of the most effective drugs
Among the most effective drugs are Exoderil, Onihelp and others. They cost 700-800 rubles. for 2. 5 ml.
Varnish with the active ingredient amorolfine hydrochloride (5%)
The main component is amorolfine hydrochloride (5%). Excipients: ethanol, triacetin, ethyl acetate. Effective against dermatophytes, yeasts and molds. Helps even with insensitive species, for example Micorales. Suitable for use in initial and later stages.
In terms of form of release, it is a transparent solution. The application must be as follows:
- The varnish is applied once or twice a week to the affected plates;
- First remove and file the nail to its minimum length. You must also degrease the plate beforehand;
- The varnish is applied with gentle movements. The skin is not affected. After treating the affected plates, the product must dry. This will take three to five minutes;
- Treatment should be carried out until the nail has completely healed.
The use of varnish is unacceptable if you are allergic to the main and additional components. Another restriction is being under 18 years old. Adverse effects are rare. Redness or slight itching disappears on its own after 24 hours maximum.
Varnish with the active ingredient amorolfine (5%)
The main component is amorolfine (5%). Excipients: triacetin, ethyl acetate, anhydrous ethanol. In terms of release form, it is a colorless varnish.
Characterized by a broad spectrum of action. Effective against yeasts and molds. It is used for demorphic microorganisms, dermatophytes. Treatment is acceptable at the initial and later stages.
Use medicinal nail polish against fungus to apply to the affected plates:
After processing, it should dry. Then you can put on socks and shoes. Be sure to disinfect the applicator, file and scissors that were used during the treatment process.
Treatment is carried out for three weeks or more.
Note!
An absolute contraindication is an allergy to the components of the product. A relative limitation is pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Side effects develop extremely rarely and disappear on their own.
This varnish is not used for prophylactic purposes. It is designed to treat problem nail plates.
Varnish with active ingredient terbinafine (1%)
Available in the form of solution, cream, spray and tablets. The active ingredient of each release form is terbinafine (1%). The component prevents the multiplication of the fungus and destroys the infectious lesion. Additional components in the composition: benzyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide, purified water, other types of alcohol.
The most effective varnish against toenail fungus is at the initial stage. Used for dermatomycosis and candidiasis. The list of actions is as follows:
- The feet are pre-steamed and cleaned;
- The varnish is applied in a thin, leveled layer - it should completely cover the affected area;
- Treated areas should not be washed for 24 hours.
If more than 50% of the nail is affected, there is no point in using the medication. Contraindications are alcohol dependence, acute vascular disorders, renal and hepatic failure. Adverse effects may develop. Itching, redness and burning go away on their own. If hives appear, consult a dermatologist.
Varnish and cream with the active ingredient amorolfine (5%)
Available in cream and varnish form. The main component in both cases is Amorolfine (5%). Additional components: triacetin, butyl acetate, absolute ethanol. Thanks to the formula, the fungal reproduction process is completely disrupted.
The varnish is used to treat nail fungus caused by dermatophytes, mold and yeast. Preferably at the initial stage of mycosis. However, if more than 66% of the surface is affected, the product will not be effective.
Use the fungicidal agent as follows:
- The surface of the plate is cleaned and degreased. Use an alcohol swab;
- Before each use of the drug, problem nails are treated. Use a nail file and remove the remaining layer of polish with a cotton swab;
- The applicator is lowered into a bottle of varnish. Then carefully remove it. The excess does not rub off on the neck of the bottle;
- Apply the varnish in an even layer using the applicator. Affects the entire surface of the affected plaque. Each nail is treated this way. The varnish dries in three minutes.
Contraindicated in case of sensitivity to the components of the product. Side effects develop very rarely. They pass on their own. Loceryl is recommended for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.
Varnish with active ingredient naftifine (1%)
This is an antifungal nail polish whose active ingredient is naftifine (1%). In addition to varnish, there is a cream of similar composition. Excipients: ethanol and purified water.
Effective in the treatment of dermatophytes and molds. The application is as follows:
- The feet are washed and dried;
- Cut the nails as much as possible, loosen their structure a little with a nail file;
- The varnish is applied in an even layer - it is allowed to touch adjacent areas of the skin.
Treatment of allergy sufferers is unacceptable. Use is undesirable in case of plate injuries, purulent or infected areas. Adverse effects are reversible. Most often it is redness, itching, peeling. They disappear on their own within 12 to 24 hours.
Varnish with the active ingredient amorolfine hydrochloride (5%)
Another nail polish against fungus. Available in cream and spray form. The main component is amorolfine hydrochloride (5%). Additional substances: triacetin, absolute ethanol, ethyl acetate.
On a note!
Very effective in the treatment of yeasts and dermatophytes.
Used for dimorphic microorganisms. The usage should be as follows:
- The varnish is carefully applied to the previously cleaned plate;
- First make sure there is no damage or cracks;
- You can use two layers of product - the first is applied after the second has dried.
Treatment in children allergic to components is unacceptable. Adverse effects are rare. Hyperemia or burns go away on their own.
Inexpensive but effective antifungal varnishes
The fungus can also be fought by more accessible means. Among them there are no less effective drugs.
Varnish with cycloperox active ingredient (8%)
Perhaps the best and cheapest polish for toenail fungus. Available in the form of varnish and cream. Active ingredient: cycloperox (8%). Auxiliary components isopropanol and ethyl acetate. The drug is effective against dermatophytes, candidiasis and mold.
Used externally:
- The varnish is applied in a thin layer to the problem nail. Do this once every other day for the first month;
- During the second month - twice a week, during the third - once every seven days;
- During the week, say on Saturday, the varnish is removed. A special solvent is used for this;
- Therapy continues until complete recovery.
Contraindications: allergies to components, childhood, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Adverse effects are possible. Hyperemia, itching and burning disappear on their own.
Varnish with active ingredient formaldehyde 5%
Available in varnish form. The main component is paraform (formaldehyde 5%). Additional components: polyvinyl acetate emulsion, a mixture of proteins and enzymes.
Apply polish every day for a month. Fights molds and yeasts, candidiasis. Application:
- The nail is treated, the plate is cut as short as possible;
- The top layer is removed using a nail file;
- Dry the nails, apply a thin layer of varnish evenly;
- The composition must dry.
The varnish takes effect immediately after application. Can be used as a preventative measure. Contraindications: pregnancy, breastfeeding, hypersensitivity. Side effects: itching and redness of the epidermis.
Oil varnish
Available in varnish and oil form. It only fights dermatophytes. Not used for treatment of middle and late stages. Prevents the spread of infection over large areas of the nail.
The composition contains oils (almond, lavender, jojoba). There are also oily solutions of vitamins.
Contains keratin, silicon and coral extract.
The varnish is used this way:
- The plates, cuticles and phalanges are treated with Chlorhexidine. If it is not available, other antiseptics are used;
- The varnish is applied in two layers;
- It is allowed to partially touch the area with the cuticle.
Contraindications – allergies to components. Should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Possible side effects are redness of the skin around the nail and itching.
Varnish with active ingredients clotrimazole (1%) and ciclopirox (8%)
Available in gel and varnish form. The main ingredients are clotrimazole (1%) and ciclopirox (8%). Helps to cope with onychomycosis, which appeared against the background of candidiasis, as well as dermatophytes in the initial stage.
The processing is carried out according to a specific algorithm:
- The first month is used daily. Apply the product carefully without damaging the skin;
- Once a week, the hardened varnish is removed with a special liquid;
- Second month of treatment. The product is used twice a week. Once every seven days the coating is completely removed. The nail is filed and cut;
- Third month of therapy. One application once a week is enough.
Local adverse effects are possible. Itching or burning goes away on its own. Use is unacceptable for children under 12 years old and pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding and allergic to the components, you should also refrain from any treatment.
Nail polish reviews
On the Internet there are mostly positive reviews about nail polishes against fungus. They note high efficiency and ease of use. Among the disadvantages: high cost, presence of contraindications. Sometimes side effects occur.
Anti-fungal nail polish helps to quickly cope with an unpleasant problem. This form of release is the most convenient to use. The varnish forms a dense protective layer that destroys fungi. First study the instructions, contraindications and other nuances.