FUNGAL NAIL TREATMENTS

Fungal nail infections can cause thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. Our laser therapy provides a safe, targeted treatment option that eliminates the infection at its source without damaging surrounding tissue.

Our Podiatrist, having completed an advanced Masterclass in Fungal Nail Management, combines cutting-edge laser technology with a pharmaceutical-grade treatment protocol that targets infection at its source—both on the nail and in the environment.

Unlike cold laser therapy, which merely suppresses fungal activity without destroying it, the 980nm diode laser delivers deep, targeted thermal energy that penetrates the nail plate and kills the fungal spores at their source. Clinical research confirms that diode lasers in the 900–1064nm range, especially 980nm, result in significantly higher fungal clearance rates and healthier nail regrowth compared to cold lasers, which lack the heat required to be truly effective (Jin et al., Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2016).

Because cold lasers pose minimal therapeutic risk, they can be used with no formal training or regulation, highlighting their limited clinical impact. In contrast, 980nm diode laser therapy requires specific legislative training and clinical expertise, reflecting the power and precision of the technology. If you’re seeking real results—not just symptom suppression—our advanced laser system is the superior choice for lasting nail health.

Hot Laser vs. Cold Laser Therapy - KNOW THE DIFFERENCE!

Clinical Comparison:

Studies have demonstrated the superior efficacy of warm laser therapy, with success rates ranging from 75% to 85% in clearing fungal infections, compared to lower clearance rates reported for cold laser therapy. Warm laser technology is particularly effective for stubborn and long-standing infections.

Benefits of Laser Therapy at Podiatry Medic

• FDA-Approved and Clinically Proven: Our laser is an FDA-approved device specifically designed for the treatment of fungal nail infections, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

• Highly Effective: Research-backed results show significant improvement in nail clarity and reduced recurrence rates.

• Non-Invasive: A safe alternative to oral antifungal medications, avoiding potential side effects.

• Minimal Discomfort: Patients often describe the sensation as a gentle warmth during treatment.

• No Downtime: Return to normal activities immediately after your session.

• Holistic Care: We combine laser treatment with personalized aftercare to prevent reinfection.

🦶 Podiatry Medic Fungal Nail Treatment Protocol

The Ultimate Professional Plan for Effectively Treating Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

🔍 Initial Consultation

Every fungal nail journey starts with a thorough initial consultation. During this session, we:

• Conduct a complete nail and skin examination

• Discuss medical history, current medications, and any relevant conditions

• Perform a DyeFactory in-house fungal test if fungal presence is uncertain

  (Gives reliable results in under 5 minutes)

• Capture clinical photographs for baseline comparison

• Review lifestyle, hygiene, immune health, and possible contributing causes

• Decide on a personalised treatment plan based on severity

💊 Immune Support (Part of ALL Treatment Plans)

Fungal nail infections are infections of the body—so we support your body from the inside out as part of our holistic approach.

As part of every treatment plan, we include targeted internal support to enhance tissue repair, immune response, and skin/nail health.

We stock professional-grade supplements in the clinic to assist with treatment outcomes and overall recovery.

These are stocked in the clinic and play an essential role in improving your response to treatment and preventing recurrence.

🧭 Treatment Options Based on Severity

1️⃣ Mild Cases – Topical Antifungal Therapy + Support

• For early-stage or minimal infections

• We recommend pharmacy-only topical antifungal lacquers (more effective than over-the-counter options)

• Nail burring done in-clinic every 4–6 weeks to reduce nail thickness and allow deeper penetration of topicals

• Daily application of topical by the patient

• Includes vitamin C + zinc support

• May still take 9–12 months to fully clear as nails grow out

2️⃣ Moderate Cases – Hot Laser + Topicals (Combination Therapy)

• Most common and effective protocol

• Combines prescription-strength topicals with hot laser therapy

🔥 Hot Laser Therapy (Not Cold Laser!)

• Heats nails to 45°C+, killing fungus and exploding spores

• Targets nail bed, matrix, and plate deeply

• Scientifically proven to disrupt fungal life cycle

• Each appointment includes:

  • Full debridement (cutting and burring nails to reduce thickness)

  • Laser treatment of each affected nail

  • Vitamin C + zinc supplementation advice

• Session duration: approx. 1 hour

• Treatment plan: 5 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, further sessions may be required for resistant infections

  • Closer intervals (e.g., weekly) can be arranged for those travelling, though spacing is preferred

3️⃣ Severe or Stubborn Cases

• Combination of:

  • Hot laser

  • Prescription topical antifungals

  • High-dose immune support (Vitamin C + Zinc)

• May require more than 5 sessions, depending on resistance and nail damage

• If laser is not appropriate, and oral anti-fungal medication is deemed suitable (based on health/medications), we discuss prescription for either:

  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)

  • Itraconazole (Sporanox)

  • Fluconazole

• These can be harsh on the liver and require regular blood tests

• We may choose laser only if oral antifungals are contraindicated

🧼 Environmental Protocols to Prevent Reinfection

Fungal infections spread easily. To protect your results, we recommend:

• Canesten antifungal wash (available in clinic or pharmacy)

  • Use weekly in washing machine for:

    • Socks

    • Towels

    • Bedding

• UV Sterilising Shoe Lights

  • Available in clinic to kill fungus in your footwear

• Antifungal powders or creams for skin (if tinea pedis/athlete’s foot is present)

🚨 Important Nail Growth Info

• The laser doesn’t fix the old nail – it kills the fungus

• Healthy new nail must grow out

• Takes:

  • 6 months for fingernails

  • 9–12 months for toenails

Patience + consistency = success.

🦠 Causes of Fungal Nails

• Nail trauma or damage

• Public showers/pools

• Poor foot hygiene

• Sweaty feet or occlusive footwear

• Beauty salons with shared, non-sterile files, polishes, and equipment

• Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) – can spread to the nails

🧍‍♂️ Who’s at Risk?

• Diabetics

• Older adults

• Immunosuppressed individuals

• Athletes

• Frequent nail salon users

• People with poor circulation or nail trauma

Book Your Fungal Nail Treatment Plan

Our goal is to deliver the most thorough, aggressive, and evidence-based care for fungal nails in NZ. We combine cutting-edge tech, professional clinical skills, and holistic care for real, lasting results.