What is nail fungus?
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.
Common signs
Common causes and risk factors
Nail fungus usually develops in environments where fungi thrive. Carefully assessing the risk factors helps us choose the right treatment and prevent reinfection.
Athlete's foot
Untreated athlete's foot often spreads to the nails and is one of the most common causes of nail infection.
Moisture and sweating
A warm, damp environment inside shoes is the ideal condition for fungi to multiply and spread.
Shared spaces
Swimming pools, saunas, showers and shared towels all increase the risk of catching a fungal infection.
Age and health conditions
Older age, diabetes, circulation problems and a weakened immune system all raise the risk of nail fungus.
How we treat 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.
How treatment works
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.
iThe iDerma advantage
Experienced skin and nail specialists
Our team is made up of doctors who treat nail fungus and other infectious skin conditions every day.
A fast assessment
You receive a nail assessment and treatment plan within 24 hours, with no long waits to see a specialist.
Testing and a prescription if needed
If needed, the dermatologist refers you for a nail test and issues a prescription treatment remotely.
Confidential and secure
Your nail photos and personal data are handled securely and confidentially.
Money-back guarantee
If we are unable to provide the consultation remotely, we refund you 100%.
Ongoing care from home
Treating nail fungus takes a long time, so you continue treatment and monitoring conveniently from home.
Doctors, treating nail fungus
"Professionalism, clear communication and attention to every detail - exactly what we expect from every consultation."
About usService pricing
Initial dermatologist consultation
49,00 €Follow-up consultation
A later visit for the same conditionAny 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.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does nail fungus go away on its own?
No. Without treatment a fungal infection progresses, spreads to other nails and can infect those around you.
2. Are tests needed before treatment?
Yes. Confirming the fungus may require a nail test, and before oral treatment, blood tests too, so that treatment is safe.
3. How long does nail fungus treatment take?
Treating toenails usually takes 3-6 months or longer, because the nail has to grow out completely.
4. Can nail fungus be treated remotely?
Yes. The dermatologist assesses your nails from photos, orders a test and prescribes treatment remotely.
5. Is nail fungus contagious?
Yes, it spreads through direct contact and shared items (towels, footwear, shower areas).
6. How much does a consultation cost?
An iDerma initial dermatologist consultation is an affordable fixed price, backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.