Nail Fungus Varnish: Pros And Cons

2024 Author: Josephine Shorter | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-17 02:10

Nail fungus varnish - overview

Fungal infection of the nail plate responds well to treatment at an early stage, but later, when the fungus spreads and begins to multiply in the internal environment of the body, it becomes difficult to remove it. In a severe case of onchomycosis, the use of local drugs is not enough; systemic antifungal agents are part of the complex therapy. (read also: Onychomycosis - Causes and Prevention)

Antimycotics or antifungal drugs can enter the body in different ways, one of the most convenient and affordable means used in the early stages is nail fungus varnish. This is a modern drug that acts directly on the nail plate affected by the fungus, preventing the spread of the infection deeper through the keratin layer. Regular use of this remedy allows you to cure oncomycosis (nail fungus), preventing fungi from multiplying and spreading throughout the body, preserves the integrity and attractive appearance of the nail plate.

The article describes the pros and cons of varnishes for nail fungus, indicating the trade names of the drugs.

Content:

• The difference between antifungal varnishes and other drugs
• Review and comparison of nail fungus varnishes
• Inexpensive varnishes for nail fungus
• Pros and cons of nail fungus varnishes
• Instructions for using nail fungus varnish

The difference between antifungal varnishes and other drugs

Antifungal varnishes, unlike other local antimycotics, are able to penetrate deep into the nail plate, destroying the fungus throughout the depth of the keratin layer. That is why, after applying the varnish against the fungus, the destruction of the nail plate stops, and the likelihood of a relapse of the disease is minimal.

The effectiveness of the medicinal varnish for fungal nail infections:

• The liquid texture of the antifungal varnish promotes its penetration deep into the nail plate through microcracks on its surface; in the deep layers of keratin, the drug continues its effect.
• The active substances that make up the varnish have a destructive effect on the cell membranes of infectious agents, and also destroy the enzymes of microorganisms, due to which the nail plate is damaged. Other components - alcohols and oil extracts - dry out the nail plate, which disrupts the habitat habitual for fungi.
• After drying, the varnish forms a thin moisture-proof film on the nail, which prevents the penetration of infectious agents inside and does not allow the air necessary for the fungus to reproduce.

To increase the effectiveness of the local drug, it is recommended to use nail fungus varnish as part of a complex treatment, including systemic antimycotics.

Review and comparison of nail fungus varnishes

Antimycotic nail varnishes are a fairly common form of drugs; they are produced by many pharmaceutical companies, both foreign and domestic. Below is a brief comparative description of the most popular nail polishes in the form of a table.

Application features	Recommendations for use
Lotseril	1400 rbl	It has an unobtrusive pleasant aroma and anti-inflammatory effect. It is prescribed for the treatment of advanced fungal infections with signs of inflammation and irritation on the skin.	Treatment of oncomycosis, prevention of fungal infection of the nail plate.
Mycosan	600 rbl	Antifungal agent for the treatment of oncomycosis with extensive lesions of the nail plates of the hands and feet.	The drug is prescribed for the treatment of fungal infections, depriving nails.
Demicten	400 rbl	Fungus varnish used in the treatment of oncomycosis of the nails of the hands and feet.	It is recommended for use in combination therapy with other local agents - cream and solution.
Batrafen	1200 rbl	It is prescribed in the late stage of the fungus in severe cases of damage to the nail plate and the spread of infection.	The tool not only successfully fights against fungal infection, but also relieves signs of inflammation, itching and discomfort that appear in severe cases of oncomycosis. It has an anti-inflammatory and cooling effect on the skin.
Gazebo	RUB 100	Means for disinfecting the surface of the skin and nail plate in the treatment of oncomycosis. It is used in the early and final stages of treatment.	It is prescribed for fungal infections, which are accompanied by skin inflammation and an unpleasant odor. When used early, it can stop the spread of infection.
Neil Expert	700 rbl	An effective remedy against oncomycosis caused by yeast-like fungi.	Helps slow down the growth of pathogens and stop the spread of infection.

Despite the fact that nail fungus varnish is easy to use at home and can be purchased at any pharmacy, it is not recommended to do this without first consulting a doctor. An incorrectly chosen drug not only reduces the effectiveness of treatment, but can also lead to a complication of the infection, the further spread of the fungus, in which therapy with local drugs will not give a result. In total, there are about 500 species of fungus, which can act as a causative agent of infection, therefore, a drug can be prescribed by scraping from a dermatologist and microscopic examinations.

Oflomil

Lac Oflomil is a powerful antifungal agent that has fungistatic and fungicidal effects.

pros

• Due to the liquid structure of the varnish, the active ingredients penetrate well into the nail, killing the fungus
• On the surface of the nail, the varnish forms a protective film. As a result, the fungus loses its ability to multiply and the disease does not progress.
• The regeneration process of the nail is accelerated.
• Varnish can be used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of fungal infections. This is especially true for people who often visit places where the risk of infection remains high. For example, a gym, saunas, baths, swimming pools.
• The varnish dries quickly.
• Since the drug is used topically, an overdose is impossible.
• The therapeutic effect after a single application lasts for two weeks.

Minuses

• The high cost of Oflomil varnish (from 800 to 1200 rubles).
• The presence of toxic compounds in the varnish, albeit in small quantities.
• Skin contact with varnish increases the risk of allergic reactions and irritation.

The presence of contraindications to the use of the drug, including:

• Pregnancy and lactation;
• A ban on the use of oflomil varnish with other antifungal drugs;
• Impossibility of applying over medicinal varnish, decorative varnish;
• Age up to 5 years.

Lotseril

Lotseril is one of the most popular varnishes for treating nail fungus. It is harmful to all strains of mycotic organisms.

pros

• It has a wide spectrum of action, therefore it allows you to get rid of all types of nail fungus.
• Included with the varnish are special discs and files for treating the affected nail.
• The drug cannot be overdose, it is easy to apply.
• Fast drying time (5 to 7 minutes).
• Possibility of applying a decorative varnish over the Loceryl varnish.
• Prolonged therapeutic effect (up to 14 days after a single application).
• Possibility of using varnish for prophylactic purposes. To do this, it is enough to apply it to the nails once a month.
• Lack of analogues. This is a patented drug and it is impossible to find its 100% analogue.

Minuses

• High price for varnish (from 1,700 to 2,700 rubles).
• Duration of treatment. The therapy should be continued until the healthy nail plate grows back completely. For hands, a full course can take six months, and for legs - 9 months.
• You may experience a burning sensation in the treated areas, as well as when the varnish gets on the skin.

The presence of contraindications, including:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Batrafen

Batrafen is a varnish with a wide spectrum of action. It is effective against more than 50 types of fungi that affect the nail plate.

pros

• In addition to the antifungal effect, the varnish has an antibacterial effect.
• The liquid form allows the main active ingredient to penetrate deep into the nail, preventing the growth of fungi.
• There is no need to cover the entire surface of the nail with varnish if a chip has formed somewhere between applications. It is enough to cover only the unprotected part of the nail.

Minuses

• Treatment only with the use of Batrafen varnish is possible only in the early stages of the development of the disease. Otherwise, systemic medications will be required. It will also be necessary to take antimycotics inside if the affected area exceeds 2/3 of the nail.
• During treatment, do not cover the nails with decorative varnish.
• You cannot get rid of nail fungus with Batrafen varnish if the skin around the nail is damaged or the matrix is damaged.
• The high cost of varnish (from 1700 rubles and above).

The development of side effects is possible, including:

• Burning, redness, and peeling of the skin around the affected nail;
• Allergic reactions.

Lamisil

Lamisil is a nail polish with high antimycotic activity.

pros

• Various colors of varnish are available to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the affected nail during treatment
• As part of the package with varnish, you can find alcohol-proof tampons and nail files, which makes the treatment process very convenient and hygienic.
• Convenience of use and storage.
• Almost complete absence of contraindications. Do not use varnish only for the treatment of pregnant and lactating women, as well as children.

Minuses

• The varnish will have to be applied at least 2 times a week.
• The course of treatment lasts about six months or more for fingernails and about a year for toenails.
• The high price of the drug.
• The inability to use false nails or cover the nail plate with decorative varnish.

Aflubin

Aflubin is a varnish for nail fungus, which has a high antimycotic activity.

pros

• The varnish reliably "seals" the fungus inside the nail, blocking its access to oxygen, which leads to its rapid death.
• The varnish can be used not only for medicinal purposes, but also for prophylactic purposes.
• The concentration of the drug inside the nail becomes higher with each application. This allows you to 100% destroy the fungus, even with its deep penetration.
• The varnish has an antibacterial effect.

Minuses

• If a large area of the nail plate is affected, then it will not be possible to get rid of the fungus only with the help of varnish. You will need to take drugs inside.
• The varnish contains alcohol, so it cannot be used to treat children, adolescents and pregnant women. Aflubin varnish is used with caution in people with epilepsy and alcoholism.
• Irritation, itching and flaking of the skin around the treated nail may occur.

Mycosan

Mycosan is a complex remedy for getting rid of nail fungus.

pros

• The drug helps to accelerate the growth of the nail plate.
• The drug can be used for prophylactic purposes, as it forms a film on the surface of the nail that prevents infection.
• Application of Mycosan allows you to narrow the pores of the nail, make it denser. This has a positive effect on the appearance and condition of the nail plate.
• The drug nourishes the nails, prevents their delamination, eliminates increased fragility.
• The set with the preparation contains disposable files with fine and coarse abrasives, which makes the procedure more convenient and increases its hygiene.
• The drug completely blocks the further spread of the fungus along the nail, which allows you to get rid of the disease qualitatively.
• The drying time of the preparation is reduced to 2 minutes.
• The effect can be felt already after several weeks from the start of using the drug.
• There are practically no contraindications to the use of the drug. Do not use the product only for the treatment of children under 4 years of age.
• The drug does not provoke the development of allergic reactions.
• Mycosan is completely invisible on the surface of the nail.

Minuses

The only drawback of the drug is its relatively high cost (from 800 to 1200 rubles).

Mizol gel

Mizol gel is a drug for the treatment of nail fungus based on Naftifine.

pros

• The drug has not only antifungal, but also antibacterial and antiseptic effect.
• An invisible film remains on the surface of the nail, which prevents the penetration of the fungus into the plate from the outside.
• The drug dries quickly, does not stick and does not get dirty.
• The set includes disposable nail files, which makes the treatment process hygienic.
• The gel is easy to apply.
• The price of the drug is not high (about 500 rubles).
• The drug not only helps to eliminate the fungus, but also improves the condition of the nails.

Minuses

• Mizol gel belongs to cosmetics, not medicines. It is possible that the use of Mizol gel alone will not eliminate the fungus completely. You may need to take systemic drugs, especially with an advanced stage of fungal infection.
• The presence of contraindications, including individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Neil Expert

Neil Expert is a product for applying to the nail plate in case of fungal infection.

pros

• The drug not only fights the fungus, but also is a means for the prevention of the disease.
• The first result can be assessed after 2-3 weeks.
• The drug accelerates the process of regrowth and regeneration of the nail.
• The brittleness of the nails decreases, their appearance improves, they become smoother.
• No side effects.

Minuses

• The drug must be applied to the nails every day.
• The application technique must be followed impeccably.
• Neil Expert cannot be used in combination with other external products.
• The drug must be applied in two layers.
• Contraindications: age under 18 years old, abrasions and other damage to the skin in the treatment area.

Inexpensive varnishes for nail fungus

• Demikten (cost - 350 rubles). Nail fungus treatment varnish containing formic acid aldehyde. It is this component that acts as a disinfectant. The varnish must be applied daily. After processing the nail with Dimekten, decorative varnish can be applied to it.
• Micostop, nail lotion (cost - 250 rubles). The lotion contains tetranil. It is a derivative of undecylenic acid, which is a potent antifungal agent. The lotion also contains components that accelerate the regeneration of the nail (vitamin PP and niacin). The drug is applied to the affected nail plate daily, the course of treatment is 1-3 months or more.
• Biopag-D Stop fungus (cost 180 rubles). It is a disinfectant with antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is used to treat shoes and linen. The drug is available in sachets of 5 g. The duration of drug action after treatment is 30 days.
• Belvedere varnish (cost from 100 rubles). This is a medicinal cosmetic product that allows you to strengthen the nail plate, reduce the separation of nails and get rid of fragility. The varnish contains vitamins, minerals, fruit acids, plant ceramides. Depending on the goal pursued, you can choose the most suitable varnish in composition.

Pros and cons of nail fungus varnishes

Nail fungus varnishes have a liquid structure, which allows them to penetrate into the very depths of the nail plate and more effectively fight infection. A protective film forms on the surface of the nail. It prevents the flow of oxygen from the outside, which is detrimental to mycotic microorganisms. In addition, thanks to this film, the concentration of medicinal substances inside the nail remains high.

Most varnishes for nail fungus not only fight the disease, but also improve the condition of the plates. The nails become stronger, healthier and stronger.

Most often, varnishes are allowed to be used to prevent fungal infections. They are invisible, so they can be used when visiting pools, baths, gyms and other public places where the risk of infection is increased.

The main disadvantages of varnishes for nail fungus:

• Nail fungus varnishes are expensive. In addition, they all have contraindications for use.
• Some varnishes contain toxic compounds in their composition, so they are not recommended for the treatment of children and pregnant women.

In general, nail fungus varnish is an effective remedy for getting rid of the disease with high quality.

Instructions for using nail fungus varnish

• Before applying varnish, it is necessary to cut off the areas of the nail plate damaged by the fungus and process them with a nail file;
• Antifungal nail varnish is applied in a course of three months, and in the first month of treatment, the varnish is applied once every two days, in the second month it is used twice a week, and in the third month, one application once a week is enough. The frequency of application of the product varies depending on the manufacturer, therefore, in addition, you need to read the instructions attached to the drug.
• Reapplication is carried out only after removing the previous layer and cleansing the nail plate from the affected areas;
• Carefully study the contraindications for your chosen drug;
• Do not use fungus varnish with decorative nail coatings.

Since antifungal varnish is a medicinal agent, it is recommended to use it after consulting a doctor.

Article author: Mochalov Pavel Alexandrovich | d. m. n. therapist

Education: Moscow Medical Institute. IM Sechenov, specialty - "General Medicine" in 1991, in 1993 "Occupational Diseases", in 1996 "Therapy". Useful articles on the topic of fungus: Toenail fungus - stages, symptoms, how to get rid of?

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