Onychomycosis, or nail infection, is a persistent fungal infection of the nail bed, matrix or plate. It is the most common nail disorder in adults, accounting for up to 1/3 of all fungal infections and 50% of all nail diseases. Toenails are affected more than fingernails. The disorder can cause nails to become yellow or discoloured. Advanced infection causes thick, brittle nails that often separate from the nail bed. It can also cause discomfort when wearing shoes or walking.

Distorted, thickened or discoloured nails; yellow or white streaks under or on the nail. Brittle, crumbly or ragged nails that have separated from the skin.

The treatment involves passing a laser beam over the infected nail and surrounding tissue, resulting in a heating effect that weakens and kills the fungus that causes the infection. Each session takes about 45 minutes to treat all 10 nails.

The most common cause of onychomycosis is a dermatophyte fungus that invades the dead tissue of skin or nails. Other causes include contact with certain moulds or species of yeasts.

Current treatment options include oral and topical drugs and laser treatment. Oral medication is used for unto 3 months, whereas topical treatment may need to be applied for 6-12 months. Laser treatment involves the use of non-invasive laser treatment to the nail and skin. It is quick, safe and effective.

A single treatment lasts 45 minutes for all ten toes. You will feel a heating sensation during the treatment, which resolves after the treatment is over and you can resume your normal daily routine. Expect to see some nail discolouration after the treatment. You will require 3-4 treatments and it may take up to 1 year to see results (clear nail), so patience is key.