What is Tolcylen and How Does it Treat Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a persistent infection that’s notoriously hard to treat. Over-the-counter remedies often fall short, and prescription oral and topical medications can have side effects or struggle to reach the deep fungal spores burrowed under the nail.
Enter Tolcylen, a topical treatment that combines multiple antifungal agents with ingredients designed to penetrate the nail bed and improve the appearance of the nail. It promises to be both an effective antifungal and a cosmetic treatment in one.
This article will take a closer look at Tolcylen, explaining how it works, how to apply it, and how it might fit into a comprehensive treatment plan for stubborn toenail fungus.
Understanding Tolcylen: Ingredients and Mechanism of Action
Tolcylen’s formulation includes several ingredients that work in concert to address both the fungal infection and the appearance of the affected nail.
Key Antifungal Ingredients
- Tolnaftate: A well-known antifungal agent that targets the fungi responsible for the infection.
- Undecylenic acid: Another antifungal component that helps to inhibit fungal growth.
- Tea tree oil: Adds additional antifungal properties, leveraging the natural benefits of this essential oil.
Nail Penetration and Cosmetic Enhancement
In addition to fighting the infection, Tolcylen aims to improve the nail’s appearance and ensure the antifungal ingredients reach the source of the problem.
- Alcohol: Acts as a carrier, helping to deliver the antifungal agents to the nail bed.
- Urea and Lactic Acid: Work to soften and lighten the nail, which aids in penetration of the antifungal ingredients and improves the overall appearance of the nail.
- Propylene glycol: Further assists in the penetration of the active ingredients.
Unique Selling Proposition
Tolcylen distinguishes itself by combining antifungal agents with cosmetic and low molecular weight agents. This approach allows it to not only treat the fungal infection but also simultaneously improve the nail’s appearance.
How to use Tolcylen for the best results
The way you apply Tolcylen matters. Make sure you read and understand all the instructions before you start.
Here’s a general guide to applying Tolcylen:
- Wash and dry the affected nail.
- Put a thin layer of Tolcylen on the entire nail and the surrounding skin.
- Let it dry completely before you put on socks or shoes.
The right application can help you avoid unwanted side effects, like whitening and other reactions.
How well does Tolcylen work?
Some people report that their nails look healthier just a few weeks after beginning treatment with Tolcylen. But it’s important to remember that much of the information about Tolcylen’s effectiveness comes from clinical experience rather than large-scale research studies.
Tolcylen seems to work best when it’s part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Combining Tolcylen with other treatments can dramatically increase your chances of getting rid of your toenail fungus.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that topical treatments like Tolcylen might not be enough to resolve a severe infection. In some cases, your doctor might recommend oral medications, laser therapy, or even surgical removal of the nail.
Comprehensive Treatment Programs: Combining Tolcylen with Other Therapies
While Tolcylen is an effective treatment for toenail fungus, a comprehensive treatment program can help ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s how Tolcylen can be combined with other therapies:
Laser Therapy (Lunula Laser)
Laser therapy, like the Lunula Laser, works by targeting and killing the fungus beneath the nail. It’s a painless procedure that doesn’t typically have side effects. When used in combination with Tolcylen, laser therapy can improve the overall success rate of treatment. In fact, studies show that a combination of Tolcylen, laser therapy, and shoe therapy can result in an 80-90% success rate.
Shoe Therapy and Hygiene
Preventing reinfection is critical for long-term success in treating toenail fungus. That’s where shoe therapy and hygiene come in.
Use an antimicrobial shoe spray, like Tolcylen Shoe Spray, to eliminate fungus lurking inside your shoes. It also helps to:
- Keep your feet dry, especially after showering.
- Change your socks every day, and wash them inside out.
- Alternate shoes, so you’re not wearing the same pair every day.
- Wear clean sandals or shower shoes in public areas, like the gym or community pool.
Tolcylen Products Overview
The Tolcylen line of products includes:
- Tolcylen Antifungal/Nail Renewal Solution: A topical treatment designed to combat nail fungus and promote healthy nail growth.
- Tolcylen Therapeutic Foot Soak: A soothing soak formulated to relieve foot pain, reduce inflammation, and soften skin.
- Tolcylen Micro-Cleansing Foot Soak: A cleansing soak that removes dirt, sweat, and odor from feet.
- Tolcylen Antifungal/Skin Renewal Cream: A cream to treat fungal skin infections while moisturizing and repairing damaged skin.
- Tolcylen Shoe Spray: A spray to disinfect and deodorize shoes, helping to prevent fungal infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you buy Tolcylen over the counter?
Yes, Tolcylen Antifungal Solution is available for purchase over the counter. You don’t need a prescription from a doctor to obtain it. It’s generally found in the foot care aisle of pharmacies and drugstores, or you can easily purchase it online.
How long can you use Tolcylen?
Tolcylen is intended for long-term use. Because nail fungus takes time to clear, you’ll need to apply it consistently for several months, or as directed by your doctor. It is recommended to use Tolcylen until the infected nail has completely grown out and been replaced by a healthy nail. This can take up to 6-9 months for fingernails and 12-18 months for toenails, depending on the rate of nail growth.
Do I need a prescription for Tolcylen?
No, you do not need a prescription for Tolcylen Antifungal Solution. It is an over-the-counter treatment option for nail fungus. This makes it easily accessible for individuals seeking to treat their nail infections without needing to visit a doctor first. However, if your condition doesn’t improve or worsens, consulting a healthcare professional is always a good idea.
Key Takeaways
Tolcylen is a promising topical treatment for toenail fungus, but it’s best used as part of a bigger-picture approach.
Laser therapy and preventative measures can also help clear up the infection and keep it from coming back.
Talk with a podiatrist or other healthcare provider to create a personalized treatment plan that’s right for you.