Is there a way to manage thick toenails without using harsh chemicals?

I’ve spent the better part of five years trying to hide my feet. I tried the standard drugstore creams and even spent months doing apple cider vinegar soaks every night, which just made my kitchen smell terrible and dried out my skin until it cracked. Nothing seemed to actually work long-term.

About four months ago, I decided to try a different approach focused more on skin resistance and natural oils. I started using Kerassentials Serum (usually discouted here) twice a day. The first three weeks were honestly discouraging because I didn’t see any immediate change in the nail itself. However, the skin around my nail stopped peeling and felt much healthier, which was a small win for me.

By week six, I noticed the new growth at the base of the nail wasn’t as thick or yellow. This was the turning point. Unlike the harsh chemicals I used before, Kerassentials Serum didn’t irritate my skin or leave it feeling raw. I did have a setback in month two when I went on vacation and forgot my bottle; the skin started getting itchy again almost immediately, which taught me that consistency is everything with this routine.

Now, four months in, about half the nail looks clear. It’s not a quick fix by any means. If you’re looking for a result in a week, this isn’t it. It’s also a bit greasy, so I have to wait a few minutes before putting on socks. But for me, the Kerassentials Serum has been the only thing that actually changed the trajectory of how my nail was growing back. It’s a slow game of patience, but finally seeing pink nail bed instead of yellow crust is a huge relief. Just wanted to share for anyone else feeling stuck.

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The vinegar soaks were the worst for me too. My skin was so dry it would bleed. Did you stop the soaks completely when you started the new stuff?

I feel the ‘hiding my feet’ part so much. I haven’t worn sandals in three years. It’s exhausting.

I’m always skeptical of the ‘natural oil’ approach. Usually they just smell nice but don’t actually do anything for the fungus itself.

I also started using Kerassentials Serum about two months ago and my skin feels way more resilient now. The yellowing is definitely fading.

How long do you have to wait for it to dry? I’m usually in a rush in the mornings.

A tip I learned is to gently file the top of the nail once a week so the oils can actually get in there. Helps a lot.