Fungal Nails

What Is a Fungal Nail Infection?

A fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) is a common condition that affects the fingernails or, more often, the toenails. It usually starts as a small discoloured patch under the nail and can cause the nail to become thickened, brittle, or uneven over time. While it isn’t usually painful at first, it can become uncomfortable and affect the appearance of your nails if left untreated.

What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments — such as inside shoes or public places like swimming pools and gyms. They can also develop after minor nail injuries or if nails are frequently covered by nail polish.
You may be more likely to develop a fungal nail infection if you:

  • Often wear closed shoes or sweaty socks
  • Share nail tools or footwear
  • Have reduced circulation or diabetes
  • Have previously had athlete’s foot or a nail injury

How Does the Laser Treatment Work?

The laser light passes safely through the nail plate and creates heat that destroys the fungus without harming the surrounding skin or tissue. As your nail grows, the healthy new nail gradually replaces the infected one.

During treatment, you may feel a mild warming sensation, but it’s generally well tolerated.

Benefits of Laser Treatment

  • Non-invasive: No needles, no medication, and no recovery time.
  • Safe and comfortable: The treatment is gentle and suitable for most clients.
  • Drug-free: Avoids the potential side effects of oral anti-fungal tablets.
  • Effective: Targets the source of infection for long-lasting results.
  • Quick sessions: Typically takes only a few minutes per nail.
  • No downtime: You can resume normal activities straight away

Laser treatment for fungal nail infections is offered as a cosmetic procedure to help improve the appearance of the affected nails. It is not a medical treatment and should not replace advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a GP, dermatologist, or podiatrist.

Clients who suspect they have a fungal nail infection are encouraged to seek medical confirmation before beginning laser sessions. The treatment can, however, be carried out alongside or following medical management to support the nail’s appearance and overall recovery.

Does fungal nail laser treatment hurt?

Most people find laser nail treatments very comfortable. You may feel a gentle warmth or tingling sensation as the laser works, but it’s generally not painful.

The treatment does not require any anaesthetic or downtime, and you can resume normal activities straight afterwards.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the infection, the number of nails affected, and how quickly your nails grow.
On average, clients may need 3 to 6 sessions, spaced a few weeks apart. Your therapist will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs during your consultation.

Will I see immediate results?

You may not see visible results straight away. The laser targets the fungus under the nail, not the nail itself, so improvement becomes noticeable as the healthy nail grows out over the following weeks and months.

Results are gradual but long-lasting when combined with good foot hygiene and care.

Can anyone have laser treatment?

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatments unsafe, these are;

  • Lupus
  • Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
  • Keloid scarring
  • Bleeding/clotting disorders
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
  • Uncontolled diabetes 
  • Skin cancer 
  • Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
  • Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
  • Gold therapy or methotrexate
  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Liver disease, such as hepatitis
  • History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

  • Preghnancy & breastfeeding
  • Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
  • Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
  • Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
  • Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
  • Use of NSAID's in the last week
  • Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
  • Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
  • Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
  • Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
  • Some types of antibiotics

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before a treatment?

Yes — to help the laser work effectively, please:

  • Remove any nail polish or gel before your appointment.

  • Trim and clean your nails where possible.

  • Bring or wear clean socks and shoes to prevent re-infection.

We will give you clear instructions during your consultation.

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do after a treatment?

Aftercare is important to maintain results and prevent reinfection. You should:

  • Keep feet clean and dry.

  • Wear clean socks and breathable footwear daily.

  • Disinfect or replace old footwear where possible.

  • Continue any medical or topical treatments recommended by your GP or podiatrist.

Other ways to aid healing after treatment are;

  • Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
  • Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
  • Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
  • Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling
  • Make sure to stay hydrated to support healing

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are very rare and mild. Some people experience slight warmth, redness, or tenderness around the nail immediately after treatment, but this usually settles within a few hours.
There is no downtime, and you can continue normal activities straight away.

Does everyone need a consultation & patch test before treatment?

Yes, all laser treatments require a full consultation & patch test before the first treatment can go ahead. 

During the consultation we'll discuss your medical history, medications and other influencing factors, to make sure laser is a safe and suitable treatment for your goals.

We will then carry out a patch test to assess your skin sensitivity & response to the laser. This helps determine the appropriate settings for the laser & identify any potential adverse reactions or side effects. 

Please allow up to an hour for the initial consultation appointment.