If you’ve spent at least a year in our neck of the woods, you know how much range there can be in the seasons. A glaring hot summer one part of the year; a snow-buried freezer of a winter in another!

While the differences are dramatic when seen side-to-side, they don’t make that full change in just a day. The transition is gradual, taking months to complete.

Our toenails are the same way. If you have thick, discolored, brittle nails, they did not suddenly become that way. It took time for a fungal infection to creep in and spread through the nail.

Similarly, while toenail fungus can be eradicated via medications or laser therapy, it does not make the damage caused to the nail vanish in an instant. The unsightliness will remain until the nail fully grows out with clear, new nail tissue. On average, toenails grow at a rate of only 1.6mm per month!

A return to clear, healthy-looking nails from a fungal infection or other cause may take time to happen naturally. However, there is an alternative that can make your nails look great in the meantime.

KeryFlex is an Optimal Nail Covering

KeryFlex is a restoration system that bonds a specifically made artificial nail to that which you currently have.

Why is that better than any old artificial nail bought from a store? The crucial element is its medical design.

A KeryFlex nail is made to be non-permeable and tightly bonding, while remaining flexible. This means moisture can’t become trapped beneath a KeryFlex nail, increasing the risk of developing another fungal infection, or making an infection that is currently under treatment worse.

KeryFlex can be used during fungal nail treatment, but it in itself is not a treatment. It is purely cosmetic, but the results are spectacular if you plan to show off in sandals or just want to feel more confident overall.

What Would I Need for KeryFlex?

There are a few requirements for KeryFlex to work for you.

First, the procedure can only be performed on a toe where at least 15% of the natural nail remains. We unfortunately can’t bond the nail directly to the skin.

Before bonding the nail, we recommend that you don’t use any other products on your natural nail for at least 2 days. This ensures nothing will interfere with the resin, sealant, or bonding agent.

One application session takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on how many nails need to be applied. The session will include thinning the nail, applying the bonding agent, applying the resin, hardening the resin with an ultraviolet light, shaping the cured resin nail, and then sealing it with a top coat.

Another application is usually needed after 6-8 weeks, but the time might be shorter if the nail starts to detach. Detachment is rare, but is likelier to happen when there is repeated trauma to the nail. ( A long-distance runner whose toes consistently slam up against the front of your shoe, for instance, is a good example.

Are There Any Reasons I Should Not Use KeryFlex?

There are a few situations in which use of KeryFlex is not recommended.

Individuals with peripheral vascular disease or peripheral neuropathy should not use KeryFlex, as it might cause complications due to potential lack of sensation in the feet.

Ingrown toenails can also be an impeding factor in using KeryFlex (not to mention a potentially painful one!). We might need to address a recurring ingrown toenail problem before we can recommend it.

Patients who are pregnant or nursing should also not use KeryFlex.

In rare cases, some patients may be allergic to the ingredients used in the nail or the bonding agents. It is important to monitor the area for any reactions during and after the process.

We will be sure to review all potential factors with you before using KeryFlex to make sure it is the best choice for your needs and lifestyle.

So, In General, is KeryFlex Right for Me?

We would gladly recommend the KeryFlex Nail Restoration System for any qualifying patient who wishes to have clear, natural looking nails before their real nails are naturally ready!

They are strong, durable, and look great. It does help if you take good care of them, though.

As we noted earlier, toes that face a lot of repetitive abuse might be more likely to see their KeryFlex nails chip or lift compared to others. We’re definitely not saying to stop your running routine, but if you do regularly suffer from black or janky toenails due to running, there are changes in footwear that can help with that.

Clipping a KeryFlex nail is also not recommended, but do feel free to file them as you like. You can even apply nail polish to them with no problems! The nails are made to be resistant to the effects of sunlight and other discoloring factors, as well.

The key part of any nail treatment is addressing problems with the natural nail, but KeryFlex can be the perfect supplement to this process. Have the end results now, when you want them most!

For more information about KeryFlex, fungal nail treatments, or any other issues concerning your foot and ankle health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our Spring Valley office can be reached by phone at (845) 352-7507 or you can fill out our online contact form.