How to Treat Fingernail Fungus

Overview

Nail fungus is a condition that often affects toenails, but occasionally affects fingernails. Symptoms of fingernail fungus include white or yellow spots on the fingernails, brittle or crumbling nails and thickening or darkening of the fingernails. Moist and hot conditions can exacerbate fingernail fungus. If you notice the signs of fingernail fungus, you can try several home remedies before turning to prescription medications.

Step 1

Remove any artificial nails, nail tips and nail polish from your nails. These can encourage the growth of nail fungus and make it more difficult to treat.

Step 2

Soak your hands in a vinegar and water solution. Use equal parts of vinegar and water, and let your nails sit in the solution for 15 minutes once a day. If your hands become dry or irritated, try soaking them every other day.

Step 3

Consider using Vicks VapoRub on your fingernails. Vicks is not FDA approved for use on fingernail fungus, but it is a safe home remedy. Consult your doctor or nail salon for information on how to safely and effectively use this remedy.

Step 4

Apply essential oils to your fingernails to remove fungus. Lavender oil and tea tree oil can be mixed together and swabbed under the affected nails two or three times daily. Mix oil of oregano and olive oil, and apply to the area once daily.

Step 5

See your doctor for medication if the above home remedies do not work. He can prescribe an antifungal medication for you to take orally or a cream to rub into your nails. Prescription medications may take up to four months to rid your fingernails of fungus.