Fungal Toenails

Fungal toenails are a common condition that can cause the nails to become thick, discolored, brittle, and difficult to manage. While fungal infections may start out as a cosmetic concern, they can lead to discomfort and spread to other nails or surrounding skin if left untreated. Our team offers effective diagnosis and treatment options to help restore healthy, clear nails.

What Is a Fungal Toenail Infection?

Also known as onychomycosis, a fungal toenail infection occurs when fungi enter the nail through tiny cracks or openings in the nail or surrounding skin. The infection usually begins under the tip of the toenail and spreads deeper over time.

Fungal toenails are often stubborn and do not go away on their own. Early treatment gives you the best chance at full recovery.

Signs and Symptoms

You may have a fungal nail infection if you notice:

• Yellow, brown, or white discoloration of the nail

• Thickened or misshapen toenails

• Brittleness or crumbling edges

• A foul odor coming from the nail

• Separation of the nail from the nail bed

• Discomfort or pressure when wearing shoes

The infection may affect one or several toenails and often begins on the big toe.

How Fungal Infections Develop

Fungi thrive in warm, damp environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. You are more likely to develop a fungal toenail infection if you:

• Walk barefoot in communal areas

• Have sweaty feet or wear tight, non-breathable shoes

• Share nail clippers or footwear

• Have athlete’s foot or other skin infections

• Have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system

• Have experienced nail trauma

Diagnosis

A provider can usually diagnose a fungal toenail infection through a physical exam. In some cases, a sample of the nail may be sent to a lab to confirm the type of fungus and rule out other nail disorders.

Treatment Options

Fungal toenails are treatable, although clearing the infection takes time and consistency. Treatment options may include:

• Topical antifungal medications: Applied directly to the nail to stop the infection at the source. Best for mild to moderate cases.

• Oral antifungal medications: Prescription pills that work throughout the body to eliminate the infection. Often used for more severe cases.

• Laser therapy: A non-invasive procedure that uses light to target and destroy fungal cells without damaging the surrounding tissue.

• Nail debridement: Trimming and thinning the nail to relieve pressure and help treatments penetrate more effectively.

• Tolcylen or other advanced topical treatments: Physician-recommended solutions that treat the fungus and improve the cosmetic appearance of the nail.

Your provider will recommend the best approach based on the severity of the infection and your overall health.

Tolcylen Antifungal / Nail Renewal Solution

Fungal toenails and skin conditions can be frustrating, especially when over-the-counter treatments fail to deliver results. Tolcylen is a powerful, medical-grade topical solution that not only treats the fungal infection but also improves the appearance, texture, and strength of the nail.

Tolcylen combines tolnaftate, a clinically proven antifungal agent, with a unique blend of cosmetic and conditioning ingredients. This formula is designed to:

• Penetrate the nail plate to reach the site of infection

• Reduce fungal growth and clear the infection

• Exfoliate thick or discolored nail surfaces

• Moisturize and condition the nail for improved appearance

• Help prevent future reinfection

The easy-to-use brush applicator allows for quick daily application at home. Most patients see improvement in nail texture and clarity within several weeks, although full results take time due to the slow growth rate of toenails. Tolcylen is safe for long-term use and can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments such as oral antifungals or in-office debridement.

We offer Tolcylen directly through our office. It is not typically available at pharmacies or online retailers, making it a convenient physician-exclusive option. If you’re looking for a solution that addresses both the medical and cosmetic concerns of fungal toenails, Tolcylen may be the right choice for you.

Preventing Reinfection

Once treated, it is important to take steps to prevent fungal toenails from coming back:

• Keep your feet clean and dry

• Change socks daily and avoid tight footwear

• Use antifungal sprays or powders in your shoes

• Avoid walking barefoot in public places

• Disinfect nail clippers and do not share them

• Treat athlete’s foot promptly to prevent spread to the nails

When to See a Specialist

You should schedule an appointment if:

• Your toenails are thick, brittle, or discolored

• Over-the-counter products have not worked

• The infection is spreading or causing discomfort

• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system

• You want a clearer, more cosmetic solution