KeryFlex Laser Treatment Improves the Appearance of Fungal Toenails

KeryFlex is an in-office cosmetic nail restoration system used by trained foot-care professionals to improve the appearance of damaged or unattractive toenails.

A special resin is applied over the remaining natural nail and shaped to create a realistic-looking replacement nail surface. The finished nail is flexible, durable and non-porous while allowing the patient’s natural nail to continue growing underneath.

Because the restoration is created during the appointment, patients can see an immediate cosmetic improvement in the appearance of the affected toenail.

KeryFlex may be an option for toenails that have become discolored, misshapen, damaged, cracked or partially lost because of trauma, fungal nail disease or certain other nail conditions.

However, not every damaged toenail is appropriate for KeryFlex. A podiatrist should first examine the nail and determine the underlying cause of the problem.

A typical KeryFlex application takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. The exact amount of time depends on the condition of the natural nail and how many toenails need to be restored.

The procedure includes preparation of the natural nail, application of the bonding agent and resin, shaping of the new nail and curing the material with a specialized light.

KeryFlex is designed as a painless, in-office cosmetic restoration procedure. It does not normally require anesthesia.

If a toenail is painful, inflamed or affected by another medical problem, our podiatrists will evaluate that condition before determining whether nail restoration is appropriate.

The lifespan of a KeryFlex restoration varies from patient to patient. In many cases, another application is needed in about six to eight weeks as the natural toenail continues to grow.

Patients who have only a small amount of natural nail remaining may need another application sooner, sometimes within three to four weeks. Highly active patients may also require more frequent maintenance.

No. KeryFlex needs a portion of the patient’s natural nail to create a secure bond. The material does not bond directly to skin.

In general, approximately 15% or more of the natural nail should remain before KeryFlex restoration is considered. Your podiatrist can examine the toe and determine whether enough healthy nail is present for the procedure.

No. KeryFlex is a cosmetic nail restoration procedure. It can improve the appearance of a toenail affected by fungus, but it does not cure the fungal infection itself.

If you have toenail fungus, your podiatrist may recommend a separate treatment plan for the fungal infection while using KeryFlex to improve the nail’s appearance when appropriate.

In many cases, yes. A topical antifungal medication may be used around the cuticle area while a KeryFlex restoration is in place.

However, the KeryFlex nail itself is non-porous. Applying a topical medication directly on top of the restored nail will not allow the medication to pass through it. Liquid products should also not be placed underneath the free edge of the KeryFlex nail unless your podiatrist specifically instructs you to do so.

KeryFlex may be used in conjunction with certain laser treatment plans. The restoration may be applied after a laser treatment session and can remain in place between treatments.

However, laser treatment should not be performed through the KeryFlex restoration. The artificial nail must be appropriately managed before the next laser treatment.

Traditional acrylic nails are relatively rigid. On a toe, that rigidity can place additional stress on the natural nail and nail bed as the foot moves inside a shoe.

KeryFlex was specifically developed for nail restoration. The medical-grade resin creates a flexible but durable nail that can move more naturally with the toe. It also does not require the harsh acids and glues commonly associated with traditional salon-style acrylic nail systems.

Once properly sealed, the KeryFlex restoration is non-porous, helping prevent moisture from passing between the restored nail surface and the natural nail.

Yes. Conventional nail polish can generally be applied to a KeryFlex restoration once the application process has been completed. Regular polish and acetone-based polish remover should not damage the properly cured restoration.

However, gel polish, gel topcoats and other products that require curing with a UV or LED light are not recommended because they may affect the integrity of the KeryFlex material.

A KeryFlex restoration should not be cut or clipped with standard toenail clippers.

If necessary, the free edge can be gently shortened with a nail file or emery board. Your podiatrist can also trim and maintain the restoration during follow-up visits.

Because the restoration bonds securely to the remaining natural toenail, it should be removed professionally rather than pulled or peeled off.

A trained foot-care provider can carefully file the KeryFlex material down until it is no longer attached to the natural nail.

It is possible, although uncommon. When lifting occurs, it often becomes noticeable during the first few days following application.

The risk is greater when very little natural nail remains for the restoration to adhere to. Repetitive trauma to the toe can also cause a KeryFlex nail to loosen or detach.

Activities such as long-distance running can create repeated contact between the toenail and the inside of the shoe. Keeping the restored nail at an appropriate length can help reduce this stress.

Yes, but physically active patients may experience more wear on the restoration.

The restored nail should be kept relatively short and should not extend significantly beyond the end of the toe. Repeated impact against shoes can shorten the lifespan of the restoration and may make more frequent reapplication necessary.

Comfortable, properly fitting shoes are recommended. Shoes that repeatedly rub or press against the restored toenail can cause chipping, cracking or premature loosening.

Make sure your shoes provide enough room in the toe box so the restored nail is not repeatedly striking the front or top of the shoe.

KeryFlex is formulated to resist yellowing and damage associated with normal sun exposure.

The manufacturer has noted occasional reports of prolonged sun exposure combined with ocean water causing a restored nail to lose pigment or appear white. Although this effect has not been consistently reproduced, patients who spend extended periods in ocean water and direct sunlight should be aware of the possibility.

Allergic reactions are uncommon, but redness or irritation has occasionally been reported.

Tell your podiatrist about known allergies or previous reactions to nail, dental, cosmetic or adhesive products before undergoing KeryFlex restoration.

KeryFlex is not appropriate for every patient. According to the manufacturer, it should not be used in patients with certain conditions, including peripheral vascular disease, arterial insufficiency, peripheral neuropathy, suspicious pigmented nail lesions or ingrown toenails.

KeryFlex should also generally be avoided during pregnancy or nursing and by anyone with a known sensitivity or allergy to an ingredient in the system.

A podiatric examination is important because an abnormal-looking toenail can sometimes be a sign of a condition that requires medical treatment rather than cosmetic restoration.

Avoid applying oils, moisturizers or similar products to the affected toenail for approximately two to three days before your appointment. Oils on the nail surface can interfere with proper adhesion of the KeryFlex material.

If you currently use a prescription or over-the-counter product on the nail, ask our office whether you should continue using it immediately before your appointment.

Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic provides podiatric care for patients in Garland, Wylie and surrounding North Texas communities.

Scott Nelson, DPM sees patients at our Garland office, while Hang Nguyen, DPM sees patients at our Wylie office. Our podiatrists can examine your damaged or discolored toenail, determine the underlying cause and discuss whether KeryFlex Nail Restoration is an appropriate option for you.