Fungal Nails Services

What Is a Fungal Nail Infection? A fungal nail infection affects the nail plate and, while not usually harmful to overall health, it can be unsightly and persistent. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other toenails or even reach the nail matrix which is the root of the nail responsible for growth.

Once the fungus penetrates the nail matrix, it may cause permanent damage, leading to nail deformities or thickened, discoloured nails that no longer grow normally.

Because fungal infections are contagious, having one in the household increases the risk for family members or others sharing the same space to become infected especially when towels, shoes or bathrooms are shared.

Early treatment is key to preventing spread and long-term damage.

What Are Fungal Nails?

Fungal nails also known as onychomycosis are caused by a fungal infection rather than bacteria. This condition can lead to nails that become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and discoloured. Several types of fungi can be responsible for the infection.

Fungi thrive in warm, moist, and dark environments, making closed footwear an ideal place for them to grow. The big toenail is most commonly affected, as it is often subjected to trauma or pressure, creating an entry point for the fungus to invade the nail.

What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?

Fungal nail infections usually develop when fungi invade the nail through small cracks or gaps in the nail or surrounding skin. Once inside, they begin to grow and spread due to the dermatophytes ability to take nutrients from keratin. Keratin is a protein found in the skin and nail.

There are two types of fungi responsible for fungal nails:

  • Yeast
  • Dermatophytes

It is important that these two are distinguished from one another, as the treatment is different for the yeast and dermatophyte infections

Who gets fungal nails?

Anyone can contract a fungal nail infection. However, some people are more at risk of fungal nails than others, and these include the following groups

  • Older people (over 55)
  • People with diabetes (twice as common)
  • Those with sweaty feet
  • Athletes and people who frequent gyms and swimming pools
  • Living with someone who has a fungal nail
  • History of athlete’s foot
  • Nail that has been damaged
  • Psoriasis
  • Weakened immune system
  • Peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation)
  • Ladies that love using nail extensions like acrylic, stick-on etc

What are the signs and symptoms of fungal nails?

Fungal nail infections often develop slowly, which makes them easy to overlook in the early stages. However, recognizing the signs early can prevent the infection from spreading or causing permanent nail damage.

Here is what to watch for:

  1. Discolouration

One of the first signs is a change in nail colour. The nail may turn;

  • Yellow
  • Brown
  • White
  • Or develop dark streaks under the nail
  • Thickened Nails

The infected nail often becomes noticeably thicker than your other nails, making it difficult to trim and uncomfortable in shoes.

  • Brittle or Crumbly Edges

              Fungal nails often become dry, brittle, and crumbly, breaking or splitting easily at the edges.

  • Nail Lifting 

As the infection progresses, the nail may become lifted and separated from the nail bed. (a condition known as onycholysis). It can sometimes cause pain or pressure when wearing shoes.

  • Build-up Under the Nail

A white or yellowish debris may accumulate under the nail, creating further pressure and discomfort.

  • Foul Odour

In more advanced cases, fungal nails may give off a mild but unpleasant smell, especially if moisture gets trapped under the nail.

  • Pain or Discomfort

Although fungal infections are not always painful at first, they can lead to soreness,         inflammation or discomfort when walking if left untreated.

How Are Fungal Nails Diagnosed?

A fungal nail infection is typically diagnosed through a clinical assessment by your podiatrist or doctor, who will examine the appearance of your nails and surrounding skin. In most cases, the visual signs and symptoms are enough to confirm the condition.

However, in some situation especially if the diagnosis is unclear or if the infection has not responded to previous treatment, a sample of the affected nail may be taken and sent to a laboratory for further analysis to confirm the type of fungus and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for Fungal Nail Infections

At Flawless Esthetics Clinic, we offer a range of evidence-based treatment options tailored to the severity of the infection and the individual needs of each patient. Some of the treatment options includes;

  1. Nail Debridement
    1. Topical Antifungal Treatments
    1. Oral Antifungal Medication
    1. Nail Surgery
    1. Advice and education
    1. Referral if necessary

Whether you have been dealing with fungal nails for months or you have just noticed early signs, our team is here to help you feel confident in your feet again.

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What's Included

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you book for the Service, you need to get to read out our terms and services of Operation

All new clients must start their feet, nails and skin care journey with a consultation.

 
  1. To secure your Advanced foot care appointment slot, each client must make a deposit payment of N50,000 to secure reservation in which the deposit will go toward your procedure.
  2. However, Consultation fee is not discounted from the total treatment fee.
  3. For other services, All payments are required at the time of booking or appointment will not be secured.
  4.  In a situation where your service is upgraded/ reviewed, you will be required to pay the balance at the clinic.  Kindly Note that payment confirms booking.
  • Should you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please notify us 48 hours in advance (kindly send your cancellation or rescheduling notification to our WhatsApp number: 08090915553, 08026372677)
  • Any services missed without 48 hours prior notice, the deposit made will be forfeited.
  • If your initial booking is less than 48 hours, the same will be applied. (deposit made will be forfeited)
  • The amount paid to book online for your foot treatment is used as a deposit for your scheduled appointment.  This is not the cost of the treatment. The deposit made goes into the treatment fee.
  • However, Consultation fee is not discounted from the total treatment fee.

Your deposit fee is NON-REFUNDABLE;

  •  If you are more than 20 minutes late.
  • If you miss your appointment.
  • If you do not reschedule your appointment 48 hours prior to your appointment.
  • (Note that if your booking is less than 48 hours and you miss your appointment, the deposit fee will also be forfeited).

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