Should you file down thick toenails?

I would always advise to file a thickened nail rather than cut it, this way you can do little harm to the nail and surrounding skin. A 'Diamond deb' nail file usually works best, filing the nail 2-3 times a week will usually keep the thickness reduced.


Can you grind down thick toenails?

Dystrophic nails can be thinned through manual sanding, however, the quickest and most effective way to sand very thick toenails is with an electric sanding device. Thick nails should be sanded to avoid ulcerations due to shoe pressure, and can be sanded as thin as you desire.

How do you get rid of thick toenails?

How are thick toenails treated?
  1. Clean the affected area with soap and water daily.
  2. Groom your nails regularly. ...
  3. Apply an over-the-counter fungal treatment after you gently file your nails.
  4. Apply Vicks VapoRub on your toenail each day. ...
  5. Apply tea tree oil twice a day every day.


Is it better to file thick toenails?

Thick toe nails can be managed using an emery board and filing your nails. This will stunt nail growth and keep them manageable. Gently file each nail across the thickened part 2-3 time weekly to reduce the thickness. The best time to do this is when the nail is dry, before a bath or shower.

How do you file a thick toenail?

Use clippers to trim the nails, then file them gently, as thickened nails are susceptible to splintering. Don't put any undue pressure on the nail that may cause separation from the nail bed.


👣How to File, Thin, & Shape Thick Toenails (part 1)👣



How can I thin my thick toenails at home?

Soak your toes in warm water for five to 10 minutes. This will help soften the nail and allow you to more easily cut the thick nail.

Can thickened toenails be reversed?

Once your toe is numbed using a local anesthetic, the toenail is removed and an acid (Phenol) is applied to stop the nail cells from ever producing a toenail. This will eliminate the regrowth of the thickened toenail permanently.

What causes super thick toenails?

Several causes result in developing thick toenails. The main cause is onychomycosis or fungal infection of the nails caused by dermatophytes (nail fungus). Physical trauma, Psoriasis,Lichen planus and diabetes may also cause thick nails to develop. Traditionally, oral antifungal treatments were prescribed.


Why have my toenails gotten so thick?

Unfortunately, thickening toenails are a by-product of aging, in most cases. As we age, our toenails - and fingernails - slow their growth rate, and the nails thicken because the nail cells, called onychocytes, sort of pile up.

What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?

This overgrowth is called subungual hyperkeratosis. People with hyperkeratosis may notice a white, chalky substance under the nail. When this occurs in the toenails, the pressure of shoes pushing down on the nails might cause pain.

How does Vicks get rid of thick toenails?

Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in treating toenail fungus. To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.


How does a podiatrist treat thick toenails?

Surgical Treatment for Thick Toenails

In some cases, the thick toenail can be surgically removed in order to relieve pressure and eliminate the infected tissue underneath. Topical anti-fungal medication is then applied until the nail completely returns.

How do you trim thick elderly toenails?

Tackling thick toenails
  1. Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften your nails.
  2. Make small cuts with the clipper to avoid splintering the nail. Then cut straight across.
  3. If thickened toenails are too painful or difficult to cut yourself, call us for advice or an appointment.


How do I stop my toenails from thickening with age?

By regularly filing your toenails at home, you can help to reduce the thickness of your nails. This can also assist with the appearance by removing the outer layer which is often discoloured.


Are thick toenails always fungus?

Although there are many potential causes of thick nails, a fungal infection is the most likely cause in the toenails. Other conditions, such as psoriasis or diabetes, may also cause thick nails to develop. The exact cause of thick nails will help decide a person's treatment to correct the condition.

How often will Medicare pay to have your toenails cut?

Medicare will cover the treatment of corns, calluses, and toenails once every 61 days in persons having certain systemic conditions. Examples of such conditions include: Diabetes with peripheral arterial disease, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, and chronic phlebitis.

Is hydrogen peroxide good for toenail fungus?

Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus that grows on toenails. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used in a foot soak.


How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to get rid of fungus?

Kill mold and mildew

To kill them without having to breathe in toxic bleach fumes, spray with undiluted 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse. The peroxide will kill the mold and mildew, but you may still need to remove the stains they left behind.

How long does it take VapoRub to get rid of toenail fungus?

“Applying Vicks VapoRub to fungus-infected toenails can clear up the notoriously hard-to-treat condition. Michigan State University clinicians found that applying the product daily to the infected nail cleared the condition in 32 of 85 patients, though it took anywhere from 5 to 16 months…”

What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?

Terbinafine for toenail fungus treatment

The best pill for toenail fungus is terbinafine. Evidence suggests it works better than the alternatives with the fewest side effects. Terbinafine results in resolution of toenail fungus 76% of the time.


How do I get rid of keratin debris under my toenails?

If your nails are crusted with keratin debris, your podiatrist may remove it to improve the appearance of your nails. In severe toenail fungus cases, toenail surgery may be required to temporarily remove the infected nail so the nail bed can be treated directly.

What kills toenail fungus?

Your health care provider may prescribe antifungal drugs that you take by mouth (orally) or apply to the nail.
  • Oral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice. ...
  • Medicated nail polish. Your health care provider may prescribe an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac). ...
  • Medicated nail cream.


How often do you use hydrogen peroxide on toenail fungus?

I used it five times a week starting out. After the nail was once again normal, I started using it about once a week for maintenance and prevention.


Should I cut off toenail fungus?

Nail removal: If you have a severe infection or other treatments just don't work, your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail(s) to get rid of the infection.

What is the easiest and fastest way to get rid of fungal in the toenail?

The fastest way to eliminate the infection is through toenail laser treatment. Laser nail therapy specifically targets the microorganisms under your nail while leaving the keratin intact. In just a few treatments, the infection can be entirely eliminated.