While nail varnish does a great job of concealing the unsightly appearance of fungal nails, it’s also creating the ideal conditions for the infection to thrive and spread. So, what’s the real impact of covering up fungal nails, and what can you do to properly treat the infection?
What Happens When You Cover a Fungal Toenail?
Nail varnish is often a go-to for those trying to mask a fungal infection. After all, a slick of bright colour or a nude shade can make the nail appear more aesthetically pleasing. However, it’s important to consider what’s happening underneath that glossy finish. Fungi love dark, moist, and warm environments—conditions that are often found inside our shoes. When you paint over a fungal nail, you effectively seal in moisture, providing the fungus with the perfect breeding ground to grow and spread further.
Over time, this can lead to the infection worsening, causing the nail to become thicker, more brittle, and even more discoloured. As the infection progresses, it may spread to other nails or even the surrounding skin, leading to a condition known as athlete’s foot. Ignoring the problem or hiding it with varnish can lead to more complex and costly treatments down the line.
What Is a Fungal Nail Infection?
Before we dive into the best ways to treat and manage fungal nail infections, it’s worth understanding what they are. Fungal nail infections, medically known as onychomycosis, are caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi are the same culprits behind conditions such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. They thrive in environments where there is plenty of warmth and moisture—exactly what’s created when you wear closed-toe shoes for long periods or leave nail varnish on for weeks without removing it.
The infection usually begins with a tiny white or yellow spot under the nail, but over time, it can cause the nail to thicken, become discoloured, and even separate from the nail bed. If left untreated, fungal infections can lead to pain and discomfort, making it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably.
How Nail Varnish Can Make the Problem Worse
While nail varnish can temporarily mask the appearance of a fungal infection, it does more harm than good in the long run. Here’s why:
- Traps Moisture and Heat: Nail varnish creates an airtight seal over the nail, locking in moisture and heat. These conditions allow the fungus to multiply quickly.
- Prevents the Nail from ‘Breathing’: Nails need exposure to air and light to stay healthy. When sealed under a thick layer of varnish, the nail cannot breathe, leading to further deterioration.
- Makes the Infection Harder to Spot: By covering up the infected nail, you might not notice if the condition worsens. What might seem like a minor issue can rapidly escalate into a more severe infection.
Why Autumn is the Perfect Time to Treat Fungal Nails
As we head into autumn, the colder weather provides the perfect opportunity to focus on treating fungal nail infections. With sandals stored away and closed-toe shoes back in rotation, it’s the ideal time to remove nail polish and start a treatment plan that will have your nails looking healthy and beautiful by the time summer rolls around again.
Lunula Laser Therapy: An Effective Solution for Fungal Nail Infections
At Callen Olive Podiatry, we’re proud to offer the latest in fungal nail treatment technology—Lunula Laser Therapy. This revolutionary treatment is safe, painless, and highly effective at targeting the root cause of the infection. The Lunula Laser uses a combination of red and blue light to penetrate the nail and reach the infected tissue. This process not only kills the fungus but also stimulates the growth of healthy new nail cells, allowing the infected nail to grow out naturally.
Why Choose Lunula Laser Therapy?
- Non-Invasive and Pain-Free: The Lunula Laser treatment requires no injections or surgical procedures. It’s completely non-invasive, meaning there’s no risk of damaging the surrounding skin or nail bed.
- No Side Effects: Unlike oral antifungal medications, which can have serious side effects, Lunula Laser is safe and has no known adverse reactions.
- Highly Effective: With regular sessions, the treatment can achieve excellent results, leaving you with clear, healthy nails.
Starting Your Treatment Journey
Lunula Laser therapy typically requires a series of sessions depending on the severity of the infection. Each session lasts up to 30 minutes and is entirely pain-free. While it’s important to note that results can take time—after all, the infected nail needs to grow out and be replaced by new, healthy nail—it’s worth the commitment.
Starting treatment now, as the cooler months settle in, means you have ample time to tackle the infection head-on. By spring and summer, you’ll be able to confidently show off your toenails again without the worry of unsightly fungal infections.
Tips for Preventing Fungal Nail Infections
Once your nails have been treated, it’s important to take steps to prevent the infection from returning. Here are some practical tips to keep your feet and nails healthy:
- Wear Breathable Shoes and Socks: Choose footwear made from natural, breathable materials to reduce moisture build-up.
- If you have athletes foot, treat it: this is the cause of fungal toenails, if left untreated you will be going around in circles.
- Avoid Walking Barefoot in Communal Areas: Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments like communal showers, swimming pools, and gym changing rooms. Wear flip-flops or shower shoes to protect your feet.
- Keep Toenails Trimmed and Clean: Regularly trim and clean your toenails to reduce the risk of infection.
- Disinfect Nail Tools and Footwear: Regularly sanitise your nail clippers, files, and shoes to minimise the risk of spreading or contracting fungi.
Ready to Start Your Journey to Healthier Nails?
If you’re struggling with a fungal nail infection or have been hiding it under nail polish for too long, it’s time to take action. At Callen Olive Podiatry, we have the expertise and cutting-edge technology to help you achieve clear, healthy nails. Book a consultation with our team today, and let’s get your feet back to their best!
By starting your Lunula Laser treatment now, you’ll be well on your way to flaunting fungus-free toenails by next summer. It’s never too late to prioritise your foot health, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us at and take the first step toward beautiful, healthy nails today!
