Undecylenic Acid for Nail Fungus

Onychomycosis also called toenail fungus, is a very common fungal infection with over 3 million cases in the United States [1]. Toenail fungus can often be identified by discolored toenails, smelly feet, thickened nails, or brittleness of the nail. Discouraged by the looks of their toenails and have trying many different treatments, people will go to the Internet and be bombarded with different solutions and remedies to combat nail fungus.

During their search, they may have stumbled upon something called undecylenic acid which is an organic compound. Undecylenic acid is a fatty acid that combats the growth of fungus on the skin such as ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot [2].

Does it Work? 

The most important question to ask about any treatment or remedy is does it work? In 2008, a peer-reviewed journal published by Foot & Ankle Specialist performed a study on 154 patients with mild, moderate, and severe nail disease. Patients applied undecylenic acid on their nails during the study and 100% of patients reported improvements in three months [3].

How to Use

Always use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

The most common use for undecylenic acid is to apply it topically as directed on the label of the specific formulation. Most products come with a brush applicator to apply undecylenic acid directly to the nail. There are topical solutions of undecylenic acid for groin, feet, and nails. Depending on the product, you can apply it to all the affected areas such as in-between your toes and nails.

Never take topical undecylenic acid orally by mouth. Topical medicine is designed to be used externally on the skin only.

Best Products With Undecylenic Acid

One of the best products on the market that utilize undecylenic acid in its formulation is Funginix. Funginix uses a variety of essential oils and undecylenic acid to stop fungus in its tracks.

The active ingredient in this product is 10% undecylenic acid and it also utilizes the powers of tea tree oil, clove oil, and lavender oil. In addition, this product is FDA approved and has a lot of great reviews. So, if you are thinking about using undecylenic acid to treat your nail fungus, I highly recommend trying this product.

Uses For Undecylenic Acid

The primary topical uses for undecylenic acid are the following:

  • Athlete’s foot
  • Jock itch
  • Ringworm
  • Nail fungus

Undecylenic Acid Side Effects

You should not use undecylenic acid if you are allergic to it. Allergic reactions to this compound include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other side effects of using undecylenic can include the following:

  • burning or stinging on the treated skin
  • any new skin symptoms
  • irritation of treated skin

Should You Use Undecylenic Acid for Nail Fungus? 

Undecylenic acid is a highly studied fatty acid that has topical uses for fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, nail fungus, ringworm, and jock itch. Studies have shown that undecylenic acid has the ability to treat and destroy the fungi that cause nail fungus.

If you are considering using this substance to treat your nail fungus then it is recommended to try the FDA-approved product, Funginix.