Let’s talk nail fungus – I know, I know. But it’s a common problem, and nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, statistics suggest that up to 20% of Americans suffer from some form of nail fungal infection, but it’s more common in the older generation, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
More frequently affecting toenails, fungal infections are caused when microscopic fungal organisms are transferred from another sufferer via skin to skin contact, or sharing nail clippers, but they can also develop due to environmental conditions. Warm, moist feet are the perfect home for fungi, and they just love it if your shoes are tight-fitting, you wear plastic gloves for long periods, smoke or suffer from diabetes.
However, effective treatment is readily available from your pharmacy, but if you’re concerned, your dermatologist or doctor will advise you. Luckily for us nail polish fans, there’s another solution – antifungal polish!
Containing growth inhibitors, and antifungal ingredients, such as amorolfine or ciclopirox, these polishes can be a good method of curing the infection, and having pretty nails too. It’s important to follow the supplied instructions, as the polishes need to be applied differently, depending on the particular antifungal ingredient used.
I tried out the best selling antifungal polishes on some willing volunteers who are suffering with nail infections, and here’s the results.
1) Dr.’s REMEDY Antifungal Nail Polish x3
What Makes it Great
Containing natural fungal inhibitors, this little set of 3 polishes lists tea tree, garlic extract, biotin and lavender amongst its ingredients. These are all known for being effective antifungal treatments in their own right, but together they make up a powerful cocktail. Non-toxic, cruelty-free and vegan, the set contains 2 gorgeous shades of pinky rose reds, and an all-in-one base/top coat. Within 3 weeks, a difference was noticed, with the nails looking smoother and healthier, and definite signs that the infection was receding.
Where it Could be Improved
We needed to apply a couple of coats of color to achieve a smooth, streak-free finish.
Dr.'s REMEDY Enriched Nail Polish, ANNIVERSARY 3Piece Boxed Set, Brave Berry/Resilient Rose/Total Two-in-one
- This All Natural Non Toxic beautful nail polish set Includes colors: BRILLIANT Berry, TOTAL Two in One, RESILIENT Rose
- Organic nail polish - strengthens nails with organic additives and natural anti fungal properties
2) PS Polish Antifungal Nail Polish – Dream
What Makes it Great
I just love this shade of red, it works for either day or night wear. Non-toxic and nasty chemical-free, this polish was developed by a doctor and includes natural antifungal ingredients such as grapefruit extract. In our test, it performed well, and after 3 weeks there was a big improvement in the appearance of the nails, and a noticeable reduction in the fungal infection.
Where it Could be Improved
The polish was, initially, a little gloopy, but after warming it slightly – I didn’t want to add acetone in case it affected the antifungal properties, it improved nicely.
PS Polish All Natural Anti-fungal Nail Polish, Safe Non-Toxic Professional Grade Vegan Nail Polish Lacquer, Best No Chip Polish for...
- ANTI FUNGAL NAIL POLISH - PS Polish nail polishes, lacquers, and treatments do not contain Formaldehyde or Formaldehyde resins, Toluene, hazardous Phthalates, or Camphor. Our nail polish was developed using a non-toxic alternative ingredient. After five years of studying the best solutions for your nails, we found the addition of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE), when combined with other key ingredients, created a polish with superior colors and healthy nails.
3) NovaNailPLUS Antifungal Nail Polish
What Makes it Great
Containing the herbal antifungal ingredients melaleuca alternifolia oil and artemisia tridentata extract, this is a clear base and top coat. I have to mention the design of the bottle – unusual isn’t the word, and once empty, I’m keeping it! In terms of performance, the improvements happened quickly, and by the end of two weeks, the nail looked and felt better. There was less breaking, and the surface was much smoother, with the infection losing its hold.
Where it Could be Improved
This polish did have quite a strong aroma, but it was herbal and not too unpleasant.
NovaNailPLUS Crystal Clear Base Coat Antifungal Nail Polish
- NovaNailPLUS is applied just twice (2 times) weekly.
- NovaNailPLUS is made with natural antifungal ingredients.
- NovaNailPLUS does not contain formaldehyde, does not contain DBP and does not contain toluene.
