Laser treatment has emerged as a popular option for treating toenail fungus. Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the nails of the toes and fingers.
It can cause the nails to become thick, discolored, and brittle, making them difficult to trim. While there are several treatment options available for toenail fungus, laser treatment has gained popularity due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects.
When it comes to choosing the best laser for toenail fungus, there are several options available in the market. Different types of lasers use different wavelengths of light to target the fungus and kill it.
Some of the popular laser options for toenail fungus include Genesis Plus, PinPointe, and Lunula.
Each of these lasers has its own unique features and benefits, and the choice of laser will depend on several factors such as the severity of the infection, the patient’s medical history, and the cost of treatment.
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus
This section will discuss the procedure of laser therapy, different types of lasers used for the treatment, success rates, and potential side effects.
Laser therapy is a promising treatment option for toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis. The procedure involves directing a laser beam at the affected toenail to stop fungal growth and promote the clearing of the infection.
Procedure of Laser Therapy
During the laser treatment for toenail fungus, the laser beam is directed at the affected toenail, and the light energy is delivered to heat the toenail bed gently.
The heat generated from the laser helps to kill the toenail fungus and the fungal spores that spread the infection.
The procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office and can take up to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the infection. Patients may feel a slight warming sensation during the procedure, but it is generally painless.
Different Types of Lasers
There are different types of lasers used for laser toenail fungus removal. The most common types are the YAG laser and the CO2 laser.
The YAG laser is a long-pulse laser that delivers energy to the toenail bed at a wavelength of 1064nm. The CO2 laser, on the other hand, delivers energy to the toenail bed at a wavelength of 10,600nm.
Success Rate
Laser therapy for toenail fungus has shown promising results in clinical studies. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, laser therapy had an 80% success rate in treating toenail fungus.
However, it is important to note that laser therapy is not a one-time treatment and may require multiple sessions to be effective. It may take six to 18 months of consistent treatment for laser therapy to be effective for toenail fungus.
Side Effects
Laser therapy for toenail fungus is generally safe, but there are some potential side effects. Patients may experience redness, swelling, and pain in the treated area. In rare cases, the laser may cause blistering or burns.
It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of laser therapy with a doctor before undergoing the procedure.
In conclusion, laser therapy is a promising treatment option for toenail fungus. The procedure involves directing a laser beam at the affected toenail to stop fungal growth and promote the clearing of the infection.
Different types of lasers are used for the treatment, and laser therapy has shown promising results in clinical studies. However, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with a doctor before undergoing the treatment.
Best At Home Nail Fungus Laser
When it comes to treating toenail fungus, laser therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to target and eliminate the fungus.
While there are many in-office laser treatments available, there are also a few at-home laser devices on the market. Here are some of the best at-home nail fungus lasers:
Best Overall – Dr. Scholl’s Fungal Nail Treatment Revitalizer LED
Dr. Scholl’s Fungal Nail Treatment Revitalizer LED is a safe and effective solution for toenail fungus.
Its innovative two-step process uses a UV-free LED light to accelerate the performance of the Fungal Nail Revitalizer Liquid, erasing nail discoloration and brittleness over time.
With over 95% of sufferers seeing an improvement in nail appearance after just one week of use, this simple and effective treatment takes less than 10 minutes and leaves nails looking brighter and healthier.
The kit includes a USB charger for the automatic shut-off LED accelerator light, making it easy to use from the comfort of your own home.
Best For Budget – HNC Fungus Treatment Laser Device
The HNC Fungus Treatment Laser Device uses a combination of blue and laser light to destroy the fungus and heal nails. The compact design of this device makes it easy to carry around and use on-the-go.
The medication in this device guarantees one fantastic result within a few weeks.
Tendlite Nail Fungus Treatment Device
The Tendlite Nail Fungus Treatment Device is another popular at-home laser device. It uses red light therapy to penetrate the nail and kill the fungus.
The device is easy to use and only requires a few minutes of treatment per day. The Tendlite Nail Fungus Treatment Device is also affordable compared to other at-home laser devices.
It is important to note that while at-home laser devices can be effective in treating toenail fungus, they may not be as powerful as in-office laser treatments.
It is recommended to consult with a medical professional before starting any toenail fungus treatment.
Cost and Insurance Coverage For The Best Laser For Toenail Fungus
Laser treatment for toenail fungus can be expensive, with some estimates indicating the cost can range from around $200-700 per session.
The number of sessions required varies depending on the severity of the infection, with most patients requiring between one and three sessions.
It is recommended that patients contact the clinic before scheduling an appointment to determine the costs and the number of sessions they expect to need.
Unfortunately, insurance coverage for laser treatment for toenail fungus is limited. While some insurance plans may cover the cost of the treatment, many do not.
Patients should check their coverage options before seeking laser therapy for toenail fungus. In some cases, patients may be able to use their health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to cover the cost of the treatment.
Despite the cost, many patients find laser treatment to be a worthwhile investment in their health. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is often more effective and faster than traditional therapies, such as topical or oral medications.
Additionally, laser treatment has fewer side effects than some medications, making it a more appealing option for some patients.
In conclusion, while laser treatment for toenail fungus can be expensive and insurance coverage is limited, it is often a more effective and faster option than traditional therapies.
Patients should check their coverage options and consider using their HSA or FSA to cover the cost of the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective laser for toenail fungus?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as different lasers may work better for different people. However, some of the most commonly used lasers for toenail fungus treatment include the PinPointe FootLaser, the Noveon laser, and the GenesisPlus laser.
It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine which laser treatment will be most effective for your specific case.
Does laser toenail fungus removal really work?
Yes, laser toenail fungus removal can be an effective treatment option for some people. However, it’s important to note that results may vary and multiple treatment sessions may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
Additionally, it’s important to maintain good foot hygiene and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to prevent reinfection.
What kind of laser light kills toenail fungus?
Lasers that emit high-intensity light in the near-infrared spectrum are typically used to kill toenail fungus. These lasers work by heating up the nail and the surrounding tissue to a temperature that is high enough to kill the fungus without damaging the nail or the skin.
What wavelength laser is used for toenail fungus?
Lasers that emit light in the 870 to 930 nanometer range are typically used for toenail fungus treatment. These lasers are designed to target the pigments in the fungus while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed.
Pros and cons of laser treatment for toenail fungus
Pros of laser treatment for toenail fungus include its non-invasive nature, minimal pain and discomfort, and relatively short treatment time.
Additionally, laser treatment may be a good option for people who are unable to take oral antifungal medications due to other health conditions.
Cons of laser treatment for toenail fungus include its high cost, lack of insurance coverage, and the fact that it may not be effective for everyone. Additionally, laser treatment may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired outcome.
Toenail fungus laser treatment cost
The cost of toenail fungus laser treatment can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of laser used, the number of treatment sessions required, and the geographic location of the treatment facility.
On average, patients can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 per treatment session. It’s important to check with your healthcare provider and insurance company to determine whether laser treatment for toenail fungus is covered by your insurance plan.
Click here to learn about dr kimberly langdon nail fungus treatment and other treatments or go to review of zetaclear to learn how I killed my unsightly fungal toenail.
