Nail fungus is more common than many people realize — and more stubborn. What starts as a small discoloration or slight thickening of the nail can progress into a painful, unsightly condition that's difficult to treat without professional help. Over-the-counter remedies often fall short, especially for moderate to severe cases. If you've been struggling to get rid of nail fungus on your own, it may be time to see a dermatologist.
At Clarity Skin Centers, Dr. Hendrickson provides expert, personalized treatment for nail fungus, addressing not just the visible symptoms, but the underlying infection driving them. He takes a holistic approach to care, considering how factors like overall health, footwear habits, and lifestyle may be contributing to the problem. Effective nail fungus treatment is available right here in New Wilmington and the surrounding Western Pennsylvania community. Request an appointment today.
Nail fungus — medically known as onychomycosis — is caused by an overgrowth of fungi that invade the nail bed, nail plate, or both. The same group of fungi responsible for athlete's foot can also affect the nails, and in fact, the two conditions often occur together. Several factors can increase your risk of developing nail fungus, including:
Understanding what's contributing to your nail fungus is an important part of treatment and prevention of recurrence.
Nail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat because the infection lives beneath the nail, making it hard for topical remedies to penetrate effectively. Professional treatment is often necessary for meaningful, lasting results. At Clarity Skin Centers, Dr. Hendrickson will evaluate the severity of your infection and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach, which may include:
It's important to note that even with effective treatment, nails grow slowly, so full results may take several months to become visible. Consistency and patience are key. Request an appointment to get started on a treatment plan today.
Yes. Dermatologists are among the most qualified providers for diagnosing and treating nail fungus. Because nail changes can sometimes mimic other conditions such as psoriasis or nail trauma, an accurate diagnosis is essential before beginning treatment. Dr. Hendrickson can examine your nails, confirm the diagnosis, and prescribe the most effective treatment for your specific case. If you've been trying to treat nail fungus on your own without success, a dermatology visit is a smart next step.
Yes, nail fungus is contagious and can spread from person to person in shared environments. It can also spread from one nail to others on the same person, or from the feet to the nails. To reduce the risk of spreading nail fungus, avoid sharing nail tools, wear footwear in communal areas like pools and locker rooms, keep nails clean and trimmed, and treat any active infections promptly. If someone in your household has nail fungus, other family members should take preventive precautions as well.
Recurrence is one of the most frustrating aspects of nail fungus. It often happens when treatment is stopped too early, when the underlying risk factors aren't addressed, or when reexposure occurs through contaminated footwear or environments. Dr. Hendrickson will work with you not just to clear the current infection, but to identify and address the factors that may be contributing to recurrence, giving you the best chance of long-term relief.
Clarity Skin Centers makes it easy to get effective nail fungus care close to home. We serve patients throughout New Wilmington and the wider Western Pennsylvania region, including New Castle, Grove City, Hermitage, Sharon, Clarion, and beyond. Online scheduling is available for your convenience. Request an appointment today. We look forward to helping you get back to healthy, clear nails.