What is Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)?

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail plate and nail bed, most often affecting the toenails. It usually starts at the edge or tip of the nail and gradually spreads, causing yellow, white or brown discoloration, thickening and brittleness. Risk increases with age, athlete's foot, sweaty feet, tight shoes, diabetes and poor circulation. Because nails grow slowly, especially toenails, clearing the infection and growing a healthy nail can take many months.

Who it's for

You may have nail fungus if you notice:

• Yellow, white or brown discoloration of one or more nails
• Thickened nails that are hard to trim
• Crumbling, brittle or ragged nail edges
• Nails lifting from the nail bed
• Discomfort in shoes or an unpleasant odor from the nail
• A dark streak or changes around the nail skin, which should be checked by a physician

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

Not every discolored nail is fungal. Psoriasis, trauma and other conditions can look similar, so a dermatologist examines the nail and may perform a KOH test or send a sample for fungal culture before treatment.

Once confirmed, options include topical antifungal nail solutions for mild or early cases and oral antifungal medication for moderate to severe or multiple nails, prescribed after a review of your health and other medicines, sometimes with blood tests. Thick nails may be gently trimmed or thinned to help topical treatments penetrate. Laser treatment can be discussed as a supportive option. We also treat any athlete's foot to help reduce reinfection.

What to expect

The first visit includes an exam and nail sampling if needed, which is usually comfortable. Treatment then continues over several months, with follow-up visits every four to eight weeks to check progress and any side effects. The damaged nail does not become clear right away; improvement appears as healthy nail grows out from the base. Fingernails may take about six months and toenails 12 to 18 months to fully grow out. Oral antifungals may cause stomach upset or, rarely, liver effects, so monitoring may be recommended. Recurrence is possible, and results vary.

Aftercare

• Apply topical treatments consistently as directed
• Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes
• Wear breathable shoes and change socks daily
• Trim nails straight across and do not share nail tools
• Wear sandals in communal showers and gyms
• Keep follow-up appointments to monitor progress

Frequently asked questions

How long does nail fungus take to clear?

It often takes months because the healthy nail must grow out. Toenails can take 12 to 18 months for full clearance.

Are oral antifungal pills safe?

They are widely used but are not right for everyone. Your physician reviews your health history and other medications, and may monitor blood tests.

Can nail fungus come back?

Yes, reinfection is fairly common. Treating athlete's foot, keeping feet dry and avoiding shared footwear can help lower the risk.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is located at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors), directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 on Line 3. We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. To book a consultation, call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.