KeryFlex Nail Restoration Treatment

What makes KeryFlex different?

KeryFlex

• flexible, nonporous,  plant based resin artificial nail, allowing remaining natural nail to regrow
• Seals the nail bed
• Prevention and possible improvement of nail infection via non-permeable resin nail barrier impregnated with widely used anti-fungal Piroctone Olamine and antimicrobial Colloidal Silver
• designed to flex with the movement of the toes, minimizing lifting and further trauma to natural nail and provides superior durability and comfort
• Providing optimal cosmesis for non-treatable dystrophic nail disorders
• Hypoallergenic

Acrylic

• A flexible, nonporous, acid free, plant based resin artificial nail, allowing remaining natural nail to regrow
• rigid, acid containing, porous artificial nail which can irritate the nails bed and skin and traumatizes the nail
• porous allowing moisture to get between the natural nail and prosthetic nail exacerbating preexisting fungal infections

. The KeryFlex Nail Restoration System consists of three components:

1. KeryFlex Bonding Agent optimizes the adhesion of the KeryFlex Resin to the natural nail.
2. KeryFlex Resin is a lightweight, medical-grade gel used to build up the nail and allows for sculpting and contouring the new nail
3. KeryFlex Sealant is a UV curing topcoat to seal the KeryFlex nail making it non-porous and non-permeable.

Who can have Keryflex?

 Anyone with a damaged, distorted or unsightly nail with atleast 15% of toenail tissue present to ensure it lasts 6-8 weeks.

Ideally for:

• Onychomycosis
• Post traumatic nail changes
• Koilonychia
• Horizontal ridges / Beau’s Lines
• Brittle and splitting nails
• Psoriasis
• Discolored nails
• After nail laser procedure

Who may not have Keryflex?

• Ingrown toenails / infections
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Arterial insufficiency
• Suspicious pigmented lesions on nail
• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Sensitivity or allergy to any of the listed KeryFlex ingredients  

The process

After you have decided if KeryFlex is the right treatment for you, the damaged nail is trimmed and filed down as much as possible using podiatry tools.

Once the nail is prepared, the process of restoring the appearance of your nail begins by applying a honey like resin. This is hardened by an ultraviolet light which is then molded, shaped and filed smooth. Lastly, a sealant will be applied and cured with the light one final time.

 In most cases, the procedure can be completed in 30 minutes or less but depends on the condition of your nail and number of nails needing to be restored.

Before your appointment

Remove all nail polish, shellac and artificial nails. Do not apply lotion, oils or solvents to your foot the day of the treatment. Stop any topical antifungal treatments to the nails for 3 days prior.

After your Appointment

For optimal results it’s important to follow the following instructions:

• Do not cut or clip a Keryflex restored nail. Use only a nail file at the tip of the nail to maintain a normal nail length
• You can apply nail polish, but we recommend not applying gel polishes or UV cured products on top of the Keryflex nail. Use non acetone polish remover to extend the life or your new nail.
• Crack or chipping at the tip of the Keryflex may occur 2-3 weeks after initial application and is considered normal wear and tear. This may be due to friction against your shoes and the growth of the natural nail. File down any cracks or chips. If you are a runner, dancer or go to the gym daily let your Podiatrist know as this may shorten the time your Keryflex will last.
• If lifting of the Keryflex is going to occur it will happen in the first 3 days of application. Lifting will occur and is expected when a very small natural nail segment is present. If you have less than 15% of natural nail left to attach to a Keryflex nail, you will likely need to return 3-4 weeks to have a new Keryflex application. Keryflex will not fully adhere to the nail bed if there is no natural nail present and does not guarantee proper adherence. However, this can still be a cosmetic solution for a special event or vacation
• Keryflex reapplication should be every 6-8 weeks after the initial application. However, everyone is unique and will depend on how fast your toenail grows and your level of physical activity.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to apply KeryFlex?

Keryflex application for one toenail is 15mins, 2 toenails for 30mins.  

After KeryFlex is applied, how soon must I return for another application?

Reapplication varies according to different patients, usually 6-8 weeks. 

Can a toe with NO natural nail have KeryFlex performed on it?

No, at least 15% of natural nail is recommended.

Any allergies noted?

Few allergies have been reported for the materials used in KeryFlex. Talk to your Podiatrist if you have any questions. 

How is a KeryFlex nail removed?

The nail is removed by the podiatrist with a dremel, until it is no longer attached to natural nail.

Is KeryFlex a cure for fungal nails?

No, KeryFlex is a cosmetic procedure for managing onychomycosis and other nail disorders.

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 damage to the layer of tissue under the nail (nail bed). Acrylic nails are also applied using strong acids which irritate the nail bed and can further damage the existing nail.

KeryFlex is flexible, yet durable, and designed specifically for the toes. It’s free of harsh acids used in salon systems. Keryflex is non-porous and will not allow moisture to permeate and get between the natural and prosthetic nails. KeryFlex’s medical grade resin is impregnated with the hydroxypyridone antifungal ingredient Piroctone and antimicrobial Colloidal Silver.

Can nail polish be applied over a new KeryFlex nail?

A KeryFlex nail is unaffected by acetone, nail polishes or detergents. Nail polish maybe applied immediately after the KeryFlex sealant is cured and the remaining dispersion film has been removed with alcohol. Non acetone polish remover is best to extend the nail life.

We don’t recommend using Gel polishes.

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. Application of any liquid products under the proximal tip should be avoided.

Can KeryFlex be used in combination with laser therapy?

Yes. A KeryFlex nail may be applied immediately AFTER laser therapy and in between treatments. It is NOT recommended to laser through a KeryFlex nail.

Are there any prohibitive footwear choices not recommended after applying KeryFlex?

Friction against shoes may cause a KeryFlex nail to chip, crack and reduce its overall integrity. Comfortable & properly fit shoes are recommended.

Can a KeryFlex nail lift or pop off?

If lifting of the KeryFlex nail is going 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. We will reapply at no additional charge if you nail falls off in the first 7 days.

Are there any other precautions individuals should be aware of prior to a KeryFlex procedure?

It is recommended that patients refrain from using any products on the natural nail 3 days prior to a KeryFlex procedure.