MyDermaCare
Skin concerns

Nail fungus

Fungal infection of the nails. Very common, especially on the feet. It requires prolonged and persistent treatment for good results.

Start consultation

What is onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails. It is the most frequent nail disease and especially affects toenails — especially the big toes. It can be caused by different types of fungi (dermathophytes, yeasts, non-dermathophyte fungi).

It is often underestimated — many people live with the change for years before seeking evaluation. Treatment is possible but requires patience: the toenail renews over 9-12 months, and the result is only visible at the pace of this growth.

Signs and symptoms

  • Discoloration of the nail — yellowish, whitish or brownish.
  • Nail thickness, shape change.
  • Fragility — the nail breaks or breaks easily.
  • Deposition of whitish material under the nail.
  • Partial detachment (the nail separates from the bed).
  • Usually painless; in advanced cases it may hurt, especially with footwear.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

  • Coexistence with athlete’s foot — focus from which the infection extends to the nails.
  • Repeated nail traumas (tight pants, sport).
  • Advanced age (toenails grow slower and recover worse).
  • Diabetes and peripheral vascular insufficiency.
  • Alteration of immunity.
  • Shared wet environments (battles, swimming pools).
  • Manicure/pedicure with contaminated material.

Diagnosis

The clinical appearance is suggestive, but several other conditions may simulate onychomycosis (ungueal psoriasis, chronic trauma). In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates detailed photographs of the nails and a questionnaire on evolution, context and other skin changes.

Whenever possible, definitive diagnosis includes mycological examination with material collection — performed in person. This step is important before initiating prolonged systemic treatment.

Options for treatment

The choice of treatment depends on the number of affected nails, extent of infection in each nail, type of fungus and comorbidities of the patient.

Topical application

Applied locally to the nail, indicated in limited involvement (few nails, without involvement of the nail matrix). It requires daily application for many months.

systemic treatment

Indicated in more extensive involvement, with matrix involvement or multiple nails. It requires individual evaluation and regular clinical follow-up.

Complementary nail care

The affected nail thinning in a podiatry office, appropriate choice of footwear, simultaneous treatment of the associated athlete’s foot — all important steps.

Talk to a dermatologist about your onychomycosis

No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.

Start consultation

Prevention

  • Dry your feet and nails thoroughly after bathing.
  • Do not share nail clippers, limes or towels.
  • Check manicure hygiene/pedicure.
  • Treat the associated athlete's foot early.
  • Toggle shoes, allowing complete drying.
  • Slippers in locker rooms and swimming pools.
  • Watch the nails — recognizing changes early.

Frequently asked questions

Are you going to spend it alone?

Rarely. Without treatment onychomycosis tends to progress and extend to other nails. The earlier the treatment, the easier and shorter it tends to be.

6. How long takes the treatment?

Very. Usually 6-12 months for toenails (how long the nail takes to completely renew). Persistence and regularity are essential.

Is online consultation for onychomycosis?

Yes, for initial evaluation, planning and monitoring. The definitive mycological examination — important before prolonged systemic treatment — requires in-person harvesting. The dermatologist indicates when it's necessary.

Will you come back after being treated?

You can come back. Maintaining preventive measures and treating the associated athlete's foot greatly reduces the risk of recurrence.

Evaluate your nails with a dermatologist

Send detailed photos. A dermatologist evaluates and proposes the plan — an average of 24 hours useful.