Coconut oil is sometimes discussed as a natural option for topical nail care, including for nails affected by fungal infections.
Toenail fungal infection is a common condition that affects several people around the globe. As it starts to occur, you may notice a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenails. When the infection deepens, the whole nail may begin to discolor as it thickens. The edges of the affected toenail may also crumble.
Toenail fungal infections can sometimes become persistent or uncomfortable, particularly in people with certain underlying health conditions. If the infection is painful, worsening, or affecting several nails, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional.
Antifungal medications are commonly used for toenail fungal infections. Coconut oil is also sometimes used topically for nail and skin care, and some of its fatty acids have been studied for antifungal properties. However, this does not establish coconut oil as a clinically proven treatment for toenail fungus.
You may use oral antifungal drugs, a medicated nail polish or nail cream to treat toenail fungus infections. Or you can use coconut oil!
Yes, recently, the Perfect Nail Solution located in Irwindale, California has released reliable information that coconut oil may help treat toenail fungus infections.
Why is Coconut Oil Discussed for Nail Care?
As coconut oil lovers all know, coconut oil is an excellent source of lauric acid (next to breast milk). Lauric acid is one of the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil. These acids contain a lot of properties that our bodies could benefit from.
Coconut oil contains antifungal properties, and none other than fungi cause toenail fungus infections!
Plus, unlike other treatments, coconut oil can moisturize your affected toes and the skin around it while you are treating your infection.
Coconut oil also holds essential nutrients that will help strengthen your nails and cuticles. These nutrients will help avoid further fungal infections in your toenails.
How to Use Coconut Oil as Part of a Nail-Care Routine
Coconut oil is widely used for skin and nail care because of its moisturizing properties. Some people also choose to apply it to nails affected by fungal infections, although it should not be considered a substitute for proven antifungal treatment.
If you choose to use coconut oil as part of your nail-care routine, keep your hands and the affected area clean and dry.
To treat toenail fungus infections using coconut oil, try these methods (make sure your hands are clean!):
Coconut Oil
- Get a sufficient amount of unrefined coconut oil.
- Apply it to the affected toenail.
- Massage it gently for a few minutes.
- Let it dry naturally.
- If your skin tolerates it, coconut oil may be applied periodically as part of your nail-care routine.
Warm Coconut Oil
- Wash and dry the affected toenails.
- Now, warm the coconut oil. You can do this by soaking a bowl of coconut oil in a bowl of warm water.
- Apply the warm coconut oil in the affected area and massage.
- Repeat this method for about 3 to 6 times a day.
Coconut Oil Bandage (this method is great before bedtime)
- Warm coconut oil to liquefy it.c
- In the liquefied coconut oil, soak the bandage you’ll be using.
- Apply the soaked bandage in the affected toenails.
- Let it dry naturally.
- Cover it with socks or plastic bag and remove it in the morning.
- Remember to replace the bandage every day or the fungi will creep back into your toenails! You wouldn’t like that, would you?
Coconut Oil with Cinnamon Oil
Enhance the amazing effects of coconut oil by adding a few drops of cinnamon oil. The cinnamon oil will help promote a better blood circulation in your toenails.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with a few drops of cinnamon oil.
- Apply the mixture to the affected toenails.
- Leave the oil on for a few minutes until it completely dries.
- If you choose to use this mixture, discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Other oils, such as tea tree oil, olive oil, and oregano oil, are also sometimes discussed in connection with nail care. Evidence and safety can vary, and essential oils may cause skin irritation in some people.
Coconut oil may be useful as a moisturizer for the nails and surrounding skin, but it has not been established as a replacement for medical antifungal treatment. Persistent, painful, or worsening toenail infections should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.