Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a fungal infection of the nails, most often caused by dermatophytes. The nail thickens, changes colour (turning yellow, white or dark), becomes brittle and may lift away from the nail bed. The toenails are most commonly affected. Without treatment the infection spreads to other nails and to other people.
Nail fungus usually develops in environments where fungi thrive. Carefully assessing the risk factors helps us choose the right treatment and prevent reinfection.
Untreated athlete's foot often spreads to the nails and is one of the most common causes of nail infection.
A warm, damp environment inside shoes is the ideal condition for fungi to multiply and spread.
Swimming pools, saunas, showers and shared towels all increase the risk of catching a fungal infection.
Older age, diabetes, circulation problems and a weakened immune system all raise the risk of nail fungus.
The treatment plan is tailored to the extent of the infection and the confirmed diagnosis. Before prescribing oral treatment, we always assess your nails and, if needed, refer you for testing.
Before prescribing oral treatment it is important to confirm the fungus in the laboratory - this ensures treatment is accurate and safe.
The dermatologist assesses the changes in your nails and identifies the likely cause of the infection.
If needed, we refer you for testing of nail scrapings (microscopy and culture), and before oral treatment for blood tests too, so we can choose treatment accurately and safely.
In mild cases, prescription topical treatments are applied to the nails.
For more extensive damage, prescription oral antifungal treatment based on a confirmed diagnosis.
Advice on footwear, hygiene and preventing reinfection, with monitoring throughout treatment.
Our team is made up of doctors who treat nail fungus and other infectious skin conditions every day.
You receive a nail assessment and treatment plan within 24 hours, with no long waits to see a specialist.
If needed, the dermatologist refers you for a nail test and issues a prescription treatment remotely.
Your nail photos and personal data are handled securely and confidentially.
If we are unable to provide the consultation remotely, we refund you 100%.
Treating nail fungus takes a long time, so you continue treatment and monitoring conveniently from home.
"Professionalism, clear communication and attention to every detail - exactly what we expect from every consultation."
About usAny follow-up questions straight after your consultation are free. A repeat consultation is only needed when your condition is being reassessed.
With a 100% money-back guarantee if we are unable to provide the consultation remotely.
No. Without treatment a fungal infection progresses, spreads to other nails and can infect those around you.
Yes. Confirming the fungus may require a nail test, and before oral treatment, blood tests too, so that treatment is safe.
Treating toenails usually takes 3-6 months or longer, because the nail has to grow out completely.
Yes. The dermatologist assesses your nails from photos, orders a test and prescribes treatment remotely.
Yes, it spreads through direct contact and shared items (towels, footwear, shower areas).
An iDerma initial dermatologist consultation is an affordable fixed price, backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.
