Damaged Nail Treatment

Gel polish and nail extensions look neat as long as the coating is in place. But frequent filing, improper removal, and wearing them for long periods without a break thin the nail plate and sometimes cause a chemical burn. At Medest, damaged fingernails and toenails are treated by a podologist, who assesses how badly the nail has been affected and follows it through to recovery.

Common concerns

• nails have become thin and soft, and they bend and break;
• the nail plate splits and crumbles at the edge;
• the nail hurts when touched, especially after the lamp;
• the nail is separating from the nail bed (onycholysis);
• spots, discoloration, or suspected fungus;
• the nail has become deformed after an injury or an unsuccessful manicure.

How treatment works

The first step is to remove the coating and examine the nail without it. The podologist assesses the thickness and condition of the nail plate, the nail bed, and the surrounding skin. If fungus is suspected, the specialist may refer you for a laboratory test, since the treatment plan depends on the result.

Next, the nails are treated with antiseptics, and a hygienic medical manicure or pedicure is performed: detached and damaged areas are carefully removed so the nail grows out evenly. For home care, the podologist prescribes products, usually topical anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agents, and explains how to use them.

Treatment options

• Treatment of damaged fingernails and toenails — after gel polish, extensions, or a chemical burn.
• Nail treatment course — for those who need regular visits until the nail plate recovers.
• Prevention of nail deformity — when nails tend to thicken, curve, or grow in, and it is important to prevent the problem.

How long recovery takes

The damaged part of the nail does not recover; it has to grow out and be replaced by healthy nail. That is why treatment takes time: full recovery of the nail plate may take several months. The podologist determines the number of visits and the interval between them at the consultation.

The main rule during treatment is no gel coating. It interferes with nail recovery and can make the damage worse. The specialist will tell you when you can go back to wearing it.

How to prepare for your visit

If you still have gel polish on your nails, mention it when booking; the specialist will tell you whether to remove it beforehand. Do not peel or file it off yourself, as this damages the nail plate even more. If the nail hurts, is swollen, or there is discharge under it, come in as soon as possible.

Who performs the treatment

Mirzoyan Hasmik — podologist at Medest. She treats damaged, fungal, and ingrown nails, as well as calluses and cracked feet.

If a nail has changed color and you are not sure whether it is fungus or a trace of polish, read our podologist’s article on this and the article on the signs of onychomycosis.