What is the best cure for thick toenails?
Christopher Ramos
Updated on May 17, 2026
Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.
What causes toenails to get thick?
Thick toenails come from a buildup of the cells that make up your toenails. Three possible causes are increased age, nail fungus, and nail psoriasis (an autoimmune disease).Can toenail thickening be reversed?
Thick toenails can be reversed if the underlying cause is addressed or proper preventative measures are taken. Polishing rough surfaces to make them smoother is a great way to treat thick toenails. Avoid pedicures because they may cause fungal infection to flare up when cuticles are removed.What medicine is good for thick toenails?
Options include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. You typically take this type of drug for six to 12 weeks.How does a podiatrist treat thick toenails?
A podiatrist will grind the nail at frequent intervals. In some cases, trauma to the nail is permanent and the nail may require removal under local analgesia. In such cases the nail root matrix will need to be destroyed because damaged growth cells will continue to produce a thick new toenail.DIY at Home How To Make Your Thick Toenails Look BETTER!!! Cutting of Thick Toenails
What kills toenail fungus instantly?
Hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus that grows on toenails. You can directly wipe hydrogen peroxide on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used in a foot soak.How can I fix thick toenails at home?
Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.Are thick toenails always fungus?
Although there are many potential causes of thick nails, a fungal infection is the most likely cause in the toenails. Other conditions, such as psoriasis or diabetes, may also cause thick nails to develop. The exact cause of thick nails will help decide a person's treatment to correct the condition.How can I make my toenails healthy again?
10 Tips For Growing Healthy Toenails
- Daily Cleansing. ...
- Moisturize. ...
- Frequent Trimming. ...
- Filing. ...
- Toenail Friendly Diet. ...
- Wearing Proper Shoes and Socks. ...
- Occasional Massage. ...
- Treat Yourself To Foot Soaks.
How can I make my thick toenails thinner?
Soak your toes in warm water for five to 10 minutes. This will help soften the nail and allow you to more easily cut the thick nail.What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?
This overgrowth is called subungual hyperkeratosis. People with hyperkeratosis may notice a white, chalky substance under the nail. When this occurs in the toenails, the pressure of shoes pushing down on the nails might cause pain.Why do toenails thicken with age?
Blood circulation is when the small blood vessels in our feet begin to narrow and become thicker, making it harder for the blood to flow. This then causes the nail cells to build up causing the nail to thicken from the nail root. This process is called onychoctes.What vitamins are good for toenails?
Keratin needs vitamin A, C, D, E, and B-complex. These vitamins keep nails hard, strong, and intact. Without them, the keratin dries out, tears, develops hang nails, and may be prone to fungal infections. You also need sufficient iron, calcium, zinc, and iodine.What is the best over the counter medicine for toenail fungus?
Reviewed & ApprovedLamisil Terbinafine Antifungal Cream treats fungus all over the body, including athlete's foot, making it the best overall choice. The Fungi Nail Anti-Fungal Ointment is infused with five oils and makes for a budget-friendly option.
What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails?
Vicks VapoRubAlthough designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus.