5 Important Things to Know About Medical Nail Restoration

I am a podiatrist in Sydney and have 10 years experience in the cosmetic repair of toenails that have had damage or trauma. In recent years this treatment has become increasingly popular, but before you go ahead with a nail restoration, there are some important points I want you to know:

Please, please don’t get acrylic nails applied to your vulnerable, damaged toenails. I know it is tempting but it will cause more damage and injury making the problem worse. The acrylic glue is way too strong and toxic for the nail bed, and the acrylic is very rigid (like glass). This lack of flexibility can be uncomfortable and will damage the soft structures of the nail.
A ‘Medical Nail Restoration’ often referred to as Keryflex is an application that can only be applied by a qualified podiatrist. This is to ensure the equipment and environment is clean and sterile, and that the artificial nail is applied safely as to not damage the natural nail bed.
Keryflex is used for damage, injured or badly disfigured nails. ‘Nail trauma’ can be caused by things like tight footwear, skiing, long distance running, or dropping something on the nail, where the nail and nail bed can damaged. In some instances, this damage is irreversible, meaning the nail that is produced is very short/thick/or grows abnormally.
It is important to have your Keryflex application removed and replaced at least 6 weekly to ensure it is clean underneath and to check the health of the natural nail
Ensure wherever you have the Keryflex applied has an individual kit for you. There should be no sharing of kits going on as this is a sure way to be spreading infections and nasties to an already vulnerable nail