Fungal Nail Treatment
Dealing with stubborn fungal nail infections
Many people live with fungal nails for years because they assume nothing can be done.
However, over time, symptoms often become impossible to ignore. If you're experiencing thickened, discoloured or brittle toenails, nails that are difficult to cut, and embarrassment about your feet, it may be time to explore fungal nail treatment at our Auckland-based podiatry clinic.
Toenail fungus treatment in Auckland
Understanding the different types of fungal nail treatment on offer can help establish a clear road to recovery.
1. Topical treatments
Topical treatments, such as creams and polishes, may be effective for mild infections on smaller toenails. It can take around 3 to 12 months for products to fully work, since the medication doesn't instantly clear discolouration, but prevents further fungus spread as the nail grows.
If treatments aren't applied consistently, this can slow recovery or enable re-infection.
2. Oral medication
Oral antifungal medication may be prescribed for more advanced fungal nail infections. Since it works through the bloodstream instead of on the nail surface, it can help target the infection from within.
For best results, it should be paired with fungal nail removal by a specialist podiatrist.
This treatment can involve daily intake for around 6-12 weeks, and it may take up to a year for the nail to completely grow out. There is also a risk of side effects.
3. Cold laser treatment
Cold laser is the most effective nail fungus treatment on the market. This non-invasive procedure breaks down the cell walls of the fungus and stimulates blood flow, allowing your own immune system to overcome it.
Appointments take around 15 minutes, even when both feet are treated. Your podiatrist will confirm the right number for your infection. The laser targets the fungus, encourages healing, and helps clear nails grow and attach to the skin.
Clear Step Podiatry was the first clinic in New Zealand to offer Lunula Cold Laser, and more than ten years on, we remain the specialists, running multiple Lunula lasers from our dedicated laser treatment room. That means faster appointments, better availability and greater treatment expertise. This state-of-the-art technology is pain-free with no downtime, and may remove the need for oral medications. It's the recommended treatment for more stubborn fungal nail infections.
Client Before and After Photos
Preventing fungal nails from returning
Successful fungal nail removal is only part of the process. Preventing reinfection leads to long-term benefits and good nail health.
After treatment:
- Keep feet clean and dry
- Wear breathable socks and footwear
- Avoid sharing nail clippers
- Follow your podiatrist's aftercare recommendations
- Book an appointment if you notice signs of fungal nail
Book an appointment
At Clear Step Podiatry, we have more than ten years of experience providing toenail fungus treatment and general podiatry care to patients in Grey Lynn and across Auckland. As New Zealand's pioneering cold laser clinic, patients travel to us for treatment they can't access locally. With advanced technology on-site, we're able to offer quick, convenient treatments, with same-day appointments where appropriate.
You don't have to simply deal with painful or unsightly fungal nails. Book an appointment for clear treatment plans that focus on long-term nail health, not quick fixes.