Keryflex nail restoration
Keryflex nail restoration is a cosmetic resin applied to damaged toenails to restore how they look. Fiona applies it in the Narre Warren clinic from $270 for up to 3 nails. You can book online and take $10 off the initial consultation.
What Keryflex is
Keryflex is a flexible medical grade resin applied over your own nail to give a natural-looking nail. The manufacturer states it is a cosmetic system only. It does not treat fungus or any other nail condition. The material is durable and unaffected by acetone, nail polish or detergents.
Who Keryflex suits
Keryflex suits nails affected by fungus, defects or trauma, as long as some of your own nail remains. Keryflex does not bond to skin, so at least 15% of the nail must be present for the application to hold. It is not an acrylic nail. Acrylic nails are rigid and can cause micro-trauma to the nail bed, and they use strong acids that can irritate and damage the nail. Keryflex is flexible and free of those acids. It is non-porous, so moisture cannot get between the natural nail and the applied nail. There is no contraindication for children under 18, and application is at Fiona's discretion. The clinic sees children from 4 years old.
What happens at the appointment
The appointment covers a multi-stage application to each nail that needs rebuilding. How long it takes depends on how many nails you have done. Fiona prepares the nail, applies the resin in layers and cures each layer, then shapes the finished nail to a natural look. The interval between applications is generally 6 to 8 weeks. A Keryflex nail should not be cut or clipped. You can file it with a nail file or emery board to keep a normal length, and you can apply nail polish once the sealant is cured. Sun exposure in open shoes will not lighten or weaken the nail. Friction against shoes may chip or crack it, so properly fitted shoes are recommended.
Keryflex and fungal nails
Keryflex improves the appearance of a nail damaged by fungus but does not treat the infection itself. Fungal nail infection is treated separately at the clinic with 40% urea, which you can read about on the fungal nail treatment page. A topical antifungal may be applied around the cuticle area with a Keryflex nail in place. Applying it directly to the nail surface is not recommended because the resin is impermeable.
Cost
Keryflex nail restoration costs from $270 for up to 3 nails. Fiona applies every treatment herself. HICAPS is on site for private health fund claims on the day, and the rebate depends on your fund and extras cover. The full fee list is on the podiatry fees page.
Questions
Is Keryflex a cure for fungal nails?
No. Keryflex is a cosmetic procedure that improves how a nail looks. The fungal infection itself needs separate treatment.
How long does a Keryflex application last?
The interval between applications is generally 6 to 8 weeks. How long each nail lasts depends on factors such as footwear and activity.
Can I paint over a Keryflex nail?
Yes. The material is unaffected by acetone, nail polish and detergents. You can apply polish once the sealant has cured.
Do I need a podiatrist for Keryflex?
Yes. Keryflex is available only through trained podiatrists and is applied in the clinic. Fiona has additional training in Keryflex nail restoration.