What is the primary treatment for fungal nail infections?

The primary treatment for fungal nail infections is antifungal medications. These medications are specifically designed to target and eliminate the fungi causing the infection. Fungal nail infections can be persistent and often require a systematic approach for effective treatment. Antifungal treatments include both topical options, which are applied directly to the affected nail, and oral medications that work from within the body to eradicate the fungal pathogens.

Moisturizers are used for hydration but do not have any effect on the fungi responsible for the infection, making them ineffective as a primary treatment. Antibiotics are designed to combat bacterial infections, not fungal ones, and therefore would not address a fungal nail infection. Herbal remedies may have some anecdotal backing but lack the scientific evidence and standardization of antifungal medications, rendering them less reliable for treating such conditions. Thus, antifungal medications are the recommended and proven approach for effectively treating fungal nail infections.