What is Keryflex used for?

November 15, 2024

What is KeryFlex?

KeryFlex is a painless, in-office application that restores the appearance of an individual’s natural nails. This system allows for a certified foot care provider to remodel an individual’s damaged nails affected by fungus, defects or trauma. 

KeryFlex Nail Restoration System is a flexible resin that bonds seamlessly to your existing nail creating a prosthetic nail that looks and feels just like your own. It creates a waterproof seal to discourage fungal growth making it ideal to use in conjunction with anti-fungal treatments. KeryFlex nails are strong and flexible and can be painted, shaped and trimmed just like a real nail.

What is Keryflex used for?

Keryflex is a nail repair treatment which is used to improve the appearance of your nails for a variety of conditions:

  1. To repair or fix a broken nail
  2. To repair a split toenail
  3. To repair damaged nails
  4. As a fungal nail repair treatment

It’s important to note that KeryFlex toenail treatment is not an antifungal therapy. However if you have an infected toenail, KeryFlex can be used to improve the cosmetic appearance of this nail. This is particularly useful when fungal treatment has failed or is not suitable. In fact, you can use the KeryFlex treatment while taking antifungal tablets. This can be a great way to improve the cosmetic appearance of the toenail while the infection itself is being treated.

KeryFlex is not used during the laser therapy or topical treatments for fungal nail infections as it reduces the effectiveness. KeryFlex is different to a nail repair glue as it forms a completely new artificial nail over the top of the nail rather than trying to super glue the cracked nail together. This works especially well if there is a large portion of the chipped nail that is missing and the nail cannot simply be glued together. The KeryFlex nail will sit on the top of the original nail and will fill in the space of any chipped or missing nail.

How Does it Work?

Application Process

The Keryflex application process involves several key steps:

  1. Assessment: A healthcare professional evaluates the condition of the nails to determine if Keryflex is an appropriate solution.
  2. Preparation: The natural nail is cleaned, and any damaged areas are gently filed down. This ensures a proper bond between the Keryflex material and the nail.
  3. Application: The Keryflex resin is applied to the nail, layer by layer. A UV light is often used to cure each layer, resulting in a durable and natural-looking finish.
  4. Finishing Touches: Once cured, the nail can be shaped and polished to match the desired appearance.

Longevity

Keryflex nails can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the individual’s lifestyle and nail growth rate. Regular maintenance and reapplication can keep the nails looking their best.

Benefits of Keryflex

  1. Aesthetic Appeal - Keryflex provides an immediate cosmetic enhancement, making damaged or discolored nails look healthy and beautiful. The finish mimics the natural nail, allowing individuals to feel more confident about their appearance.
  2. Protection - The resin coating acts as a barrier against environmental factors, protecting the underlying nail from further damage. This is especially beneficial for individuals recovering from fungal infections or trauma.
  3. Breathability - One of the standout features of Keryflex is its breathable formulation. Unlike traditional acrylic nails, Keryflex allows moisture and air to reach the natural nail, promoting a healthier environment for growth.
  4. Quick and Convenient - The application process is relatively quick, often taking less than an hour. This convenience makes it an appealing option for those with busy schedules who still want to prioritize nail health.

How is KeryFlex treatment different from acrylic nails?

One of the unique features of KeryFlex is that it is not rigid like acrylic nails and instead is flexible which means it bends with your natural nail. It is also non-porous which means it will not allow moisture to permeate through the nail and sit between the KeryFlex nail and the natural nail. It is not uncommon for a fungal infection to develop beneath an acrylic nail. This happens because air and moisture sits between the nail and the acrylic nail allowing an infection to take hold and thrive. As the KeryFlex nail is non-porous, this does not occur.

Is Keryflex OK for everyone?

Yes, Keryflex is perfectly fine for men, women, children, anyone. It is safe for everyone. KeryFlex however should not be used on individuals with peripheral vascular disease, arterial insufficiency, peripheral neuropathy, suspicious pigmented lesions on the nail or in-grown toenails. It should be avoided in patients who are pregnant, nursing or known to be sensitive or allergic to any of its ingredients.

If you are concerned or would like to check if KeryFlex Nail Restoration is right for you. You can contact us today or set an appointment online. You may reach us in Bethesda Maryland to schedule an appointment. 

Ten KeryFlex Facts

  1. Keryflex is a cosmetic procedure for managing onychomycosis and other nail disorders.
  2. KeryFlex is a three-step procedure, is easy to apply, and creates an artificial nail in one office visit.
  3. Keryflex is a resin that when cured under a special UV light has all the characteristics of a natural toenail. It is uniquely different from acrylics and gels in that:

Keryflex is a non-porous material.

Keryflex is flexible. It adheres to the shape of each individual toe.

Nail polish and non-acetone nail polish remover can be applied often without any negative impact on the resin.

Keryflex is only available through a certified podiatrist’s office.

  1. The procedure usually takes 10 to 15 minutes for a typical nail. After the procedure, the patient can put on their socks and shoes, or sandals, apply nail polish, and so forth.
  2. Keryflex cannot be done on a toe without a nail. At least 15% of the existing nail must be present for the resin application.
  3. Keryflex is not covered by insurance since it is a cosmetic procedure.
  4. Patients typically come back for a follow-up application every 6 to 8 weeks. The existing material is burned off (10 seconds) and the procedure is performed. 
  5. Few, if any, allergic reactions have been reported for the materials used in KeryFlex. The material used in KeryFlex is approved as a cosmetic by the FDA. 
  6. Keryflex can be done anytime of the year.
  7. Call for pricing.

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