Is Listerine the Secret to Treating Fungus on Nails?

Ever heard of using mouthwash to treat nail fungus? Believe it or not, Listerine might just be the low-cost trick you need. Roughly one in ten people will deal with nail fungus in their lifetime, and it's not easy to get rid of. Nails, especially toenails, grow slowly, making treatment a long and expensive process. But dermatologist Neera Nathan has a clever tip from her TikTok account: use the brown Listerine you have in your medicine cabinet. Listerine Original Anti-septic Mouthwash contains compounds like menthol, eucalyptol, and thymol that have antifungal properties. Dr. Nathan suggests applying Listerine to affected nails with a cotton ball or soaking them in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a week. Keep in mind, it takes six months for fingernails and a year for toenails to see improvement.

Prescription drugs like Lamisil and Sporanox are often more effective but come with potential side effects. Another option to consider is diluted apple cider vinegar soaks, which have antibacterial and antifungal benefits. Some doctors even recommend a mix of Listerine, white vinegar, and water for nail soaks. It's important to note that severe fungal infections may require prescription oral treatments. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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