Does peroxide kill toenail fungus?

Author: Prof. Nestor Leffler Jr.  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Hydrogen peroxide can kill the fungus that grows on toenails. You can use hydrogen peroxide for toenail fungus by wiping it on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. A hydrogen peroxide foot soak can also be used.

How long does hydrogen peroxide take to cure nail fungus?

The nail will need to grow out to show clearer results. For deep, stubborn infections, it can take 6 months or longer for any visible changes. Even with consistent use, peroxide may struggle to reach fungus trapped under thickened nails.

How do I get rid of toenail fungus asap?

Terbinafine and itraconazole are the 2 medicines most commonly prescribed for fungal nail infections. These usually need to be taken once or twice a day for several months to ensure the infection has completely cleared up. If you stop taking the medication too early, the infection may return.

What happens if you put hydrogen peroxide on a fungal infection?

Hydrogen peroxide can easily kill fungus on the surface level but is not intended for internal use. You can pour hydrogen peroxide over the infected area, but be aware it may sting and should bubble, especially if you have any open wounds.

What kills fungus better, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide?

Both rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide kill fungi, too. Which product you use depends on what germs you're trying to kill, the surface you're trying to kill them on, and how much time you have. Rubbing alcohol works faster, but it can damage porous surfaces such as wood or granite.

3 Ways to Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Nail Fungus - Toe Fungus Journey

Why does hydrogen peroxide bubble on fungus?

Hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive solution. When it comes into contact with a catalase, it releases oxygen and water causing bubbles. 3 If there is blood, bacteria, or another catalase on the skin, hydrogen peroxide will react with it and cause bubbling.

What should I soak my feet in to get rid of toenail fungus?

Soaking your feet in Epsom salt not only combats the fungus but also alleviates discomfort, facilitating a quicker recovery. Simply dissolve the Epsom salt in the warm water until fully dissolved. Soak your feet for 20-30 minutes to allow the remedy to take effect.

What does soaking your feet in hydrogen peroxide do?

Hydrogen peroxide is easily accessible and inexpensive, making it a popular choice for treating foot fungus. Here are some of its key benefits: Effective Antifungal Properties: Hydrogen peroxide can break down the fungal cells that cause infections. Safe and Easy to Use: When used properly, hydrogen peroxide is safe.

Will hydrogen peroxide draw out infection?

Hydrogen peroxide should never be used to treat wounds as it does more harm than good. In fact, no antiseptic should be used to treat wounds. While highly reactive chemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide do indeed kill some bacteria, they do more damage to healthy cells that are attempting to heal the wound.

What not to do with toenail fungus?

Don't go barefoot in public places. Use a spray or powder that fights fungus on your feet and in your shoes. Don't pick at the skin around your nails. Don't use nail polish or fake nails on your nails.

What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?

You can take a prescribed oral antifungal medication to treat the fungus. Options include terbinafine (Lamisil®), itraconazole (Sporanox®) or fluconazole (Diflucan®). You'll need to take the medication every day for several months (or longer).

Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?

Studies show that taking antifungal pills and applying medicine to your nails can be more effective than using either treatment alone. Nail removal: If you have a severe infection or other treatments just don't work, your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail(s) to get rid of the infection.

Can you scrape out toenail fungus?

If your fungus doesn't clear up at home, you should check in with a dermatologist (a skin, hair, and nail specialist) or podiatrist (a foot doctor.) They may gently scrape under your nail to get rid of some of the fungus or send it to the lab for diagnosis. They can also prescribe stronger medicines. Topical medicines.

Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?

Topical treatment with Vicks VapoRub: The combination of camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, the three main ingredients in Vicks VapoRub, is believed to stop the growth of certain fungi. Follow the same application process as for tea tree oil. Numerous readers swear by this.

What does it mean when hydrogen peroxide bubbles?

While not necessarily a “mistake”, a common misconception is that if hydrogen peroxide bubbles, it means your wound is infected. Hydrogen peroxide will bubble whether your wound is infected or not. A chemical reaction occurs while cleaning and creates little oxygen bubbles. Don't sweat over the bubbles.

How long to leave hydrogen peroxide on nail fungus?

Try cleaning and drying the infected area thoroughly. Use a cotton ball soaked in 3% hydrogen peroxide and apply it directly to the fungal nail. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with water. Repeat this once or twice daily until the infection begins to clear.

What does hydrogen peroxide do in pedicure?

Hydrogen peroxide for feet

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to relieve issues like cracked heels, corns, calluses, and dead skin build-up. Because of its softening property, hydrogen peroxide helps in softening cracked heels and pressure calluses, especially for people who are active physically or play sports.

What does Epsom salt and peroxide do?

To Detox: Epsom Salt + Hydrogen Peroxide

Equal parts salt and hydrogen peroxide. It makes you sweat all of the toxins out and all of the bad stuff. I learned about it from a hippie-natural-amazing pediatrician, actually, for when kids get sick.”

What worsens toenail fungus?

Older age. Wearing shoes that make your feet sweat heavily. Having had athlete's foot in the past. Walking barefoot in damp public areas, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms.

What is the shower hack for toenail fungus?

Soaking feet in an Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) bath can be beneficial to relieve your foot fungus. You can mix one cup of Epsom salt with two quarts of warm to hot water and soak your feet for 10 to 20 minutes. You could also try a more elaborate Epsom salt concoction that includes: 4 cups warm to hot water.

How to get rid of toenail fungus permanently?

Treatment options may include:
  1. Oral Medications. This is the most studied and most likely to be successful treatment for fungal nail infections. ...
  2. Topical Treatments. Prescription strength antifungal cream may be prescribed to treat the fungus. ...
  3. Laser Treatments. ...
  4. Toenail Removal.

What kills mold better, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide?

It's often used as a natural and nontoxic alternative to cleaning chemicals when it comes to killing household mold. Cleaning vinegar, which contains 6% acetic acid, is the best type for killing mold.

What is the best toenail fungus treatment over the counter?

Over-the-counter medications

Tolnaftate (brand name Tinactin) Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)

What does it mean when peroxide bubbles in your ear?

The Science Behind Hydrogen Peroxide and Ear Health

This reaction manifests as a bubbling effect, akin to tiny fireworks in your ear canal, signaling that the solution is working its magic. The bubbles help to loosen and disintegrate earwax, making it easier to remove.

Previous article
Does an AC unit need to rest?
Next article
Do garage door openers burn out?