KeryFlex

KeryFlex restores and improves the cosmetic appearance of toenails effected by fungus, damage or trauma.

Many patients are very embarrassed about their toenails and often cover them in shellac polish or acrylics, performed in salons under poor infection control conditions.

Keryflex, is a healthier, safer and more durable alternative to nail salons and acrylic nails.

The KeryFlex resin creates a flexible, but durable, non-porous nail that allows the remaining natural nail underneath to grow.

It is made from a medical grade resin impregnated with the hydroxypyridone antifungal ingredient Piroctone.

It is applied by a trained podiatrist under sterile conditions.

• Nail fungus
• Nail shape damage due to injury
• Thickened gryphotic nails
• Spoon shaped nails
• Brittle and splitting nails
• Horizontal ridges
• Discolored nails

• Peripheral vascular disease
• Arterial insufficiency
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Suspicious pigmented lesions on the nail
• 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.

How does a KeryFlex nail differ from an acrylic nail?

Acrylic nails are rigid and do not bend with the natural movement of the toes. As a result, acrylic nails applied to the toenails can cause micro-trauma to the nail bed.  Keryflex is flexible and moves and bends with the toes.

Acrylic nails are also applied using strong acids which irritate the nail bed and damage the existing nail. Keryflex is compatible with human tissue and will cause further damage to the underlying nail or skin.

KeryFlex’s is made from a medical grade resin impregnated with the hydroxypyridone antifungal ingredient Piroctone.

 

Is KeryFlex available outside of podiatry?

No. IT is available exclusively through properly trained podiatrists. It is always applied in a sterile environment, reducing the risk of further nail and skin infections.

 

How often is it applied?

This will vary between patients, but in general, the time between applications is six to eight weeks.

Rarely, a KeryFlex nail may detach from the natural nail. This can occur with repeated trauma to the nail, like with long-distance running or wearing tight inappropriate footwear.

 

What precautions should patients be aware of prior to the treatment?

It is recommended that patients refrain from using any products on the natural nail 2 days prior to the treatment. This includes antifungal paints or creams.

 

Is It a cure for fungal nails?

No. It is an aesthetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of toenails damaged by onychomycosis and other nail disorders.

 

Can restoration be done on a toe with NO natural nail?

KeryFlex does not bind to skin, therefore, the presence of at least 15% of the natural nail is recommended.

 

How is the KeryFlex nail removed?

The KeryFlex nail becomes permanently bound to the natural nail. To remove the nail, a podiatrist will gently drill the artificial nail until it is no longer attached to the natural nail.

 

Have there been any reported allergies to KeryFlex ingredients?

In rare cases, allergies (mild redness, irritation) have been reported.

 

Can the nail be trimmed by regular nail trimmers or do patients have to return to a podiatrist for professional trimming?

A patient should use a nail file to maintain a normal length. The nail should NOT be cut or clipped at home due to increased risk of cracking and trauma to the underlying nail.

 

Can nail polish be applied over a new KeryFlex nail?

Yes, nail polish can be applied immediately applied after the application if completed.

 

Can KeryFlex be used in combination with topical antifungal treatments?

Yes. While KeryFlex is not a treatment for fungal nails, a topical antifungal may be applied around the cuticle area.

A KeryFlex nail is non-porous and impermeable so application directly to the nail surface is not recommended.

 

Can KeryFlex be used with laser therapy?

The nail may be applied immediately AFTER laser therapy and in between treatments. It is NOT recommended to laser through a KeryFlex nail or if the nail or skin around the nail is red, inflamed or irritated.

 

Will continued exposure to the sun wearing open toe shoes lighten or weaken the nail?

No. KeryFlex was formulated with ingredients to protect against potential sun damage and yellowing.

 

Can KeryFlex be applied to children under the age of 18?

There is no contraindication for use in children under the age of 18. Application is at discretion of the treating podiatrist.

 

Are there any prohibitive footwear choices not recommended after applying the treament?

Friction against shoes may cause the nail to chip, crack and reduce its overall integrity. Comfortable and properly fitting shoes are recommended.

 

Can the nail lift or pop off?

If lifting of the nail is going to occur, it will typically occur within the first 3 days after application.

Lifting will occur and is to be expected when a very small nail natural segment is present.

When the nail detaches, the patient should return to the podiatrist for repair and re-application.

 

For any further information please refer to the KeryFlex website.