How to sand down thick, ugly toenails? - Nail Problems Message Board

mkl · 09-27-2006, 04:35 PM

All of my toenails, especially the ones on the big toes, are thick and ugly due to a nail fungal infection. I don't want to go the Lamisil route because of possible side effects. No pain, just very unsightly. When I see my podiatrist he uses an electric tool (possibly a Dremel?) to sand them down but I live on a small island off the coast of Mexico for eight months out of the year and there is no podiatrist there. What is the best way for me to smooth down and sand these nails on my own?

Thanks for any tips.

Marianne

Marti · 09-28-2006, 01:49 PM

Sanding them down will only temporarily help the 'look' of the nails. You really need to be treating the infection. I don't blame you for not wanting to take the Lamasil, but there are other over-the-counter remedies for fungal infection. Many on this board have benefited from applying Vicks Vapor Rup under the nails twice a day. Some have applied white vinegar twice a day, some have used ReClear, Dr. G's and other medications.

If you sand them down, you need to throw the file away after you use it only once because the fungal spores can live on the nail file or emery board. If you are close to a beauty supply, you can get a white block buffer and buff them down.

Excess1973 · 11-02-2006, 06:59 PM

I would not do this as the dremel can damage the nail and cause a worse problem. It's also hard to operate it. But yes, you could do this.
The white buffer is better and also use a buffing to make them look nicer when you are done. one of these has something like leather on them they buff them nicely.