Photodisinfection Therapy
An advanced, non-invasive treatment for fungal nail infections.
Photodisinfection Therapy is an in-clinic treatment designed to help manage fungal nail infections safely and effectively. It uses a light-activated serum and targeted red LED light to help destroy fungal cells while leaving healthy surrounding tissue unharmed.
This treatment is painless, drug-free, and does not require downtime, making it a suitable option for many patients looking for a non-invasive approach to fungal nail care.
What are the advantages of Photodisinfection Therapy?
Photodisinfection Therapy offers several benefits, including:
painless treatment
no downtime after treatment
non-invasive and drug-free approach
treatment sessions completed in around 30 minutes
clinically supported treatment option
suitable for selected patients who may not be ideal candidates for oral antifungal medication
How does Photodisinfection Therapy work?
Photodisinfection Therapy works by using a light-activated photosensitising serum and red LED light.
The serum contains a non-toxic blue dye molecule that is designed to bind to fungal microorganisms. Because it has a lower surface tension than water, it can be absorbed more easily into a well-debrided or fenestrated nail plate.
Once the serum has soaked into the affected nails, the feet are placed under a red LED therapy light. This activates a photochemical reaction that stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species. These reactive oxygen species disrupt the fungal cell membrane, helping destroy the fungal cells.
The light used includes red LEDs at a wavelength of 660 nm, which are used to activate the serum and complete the treatment process.
What is the diagnostic process?
Before treatment begins, your clinician will carry out a full fungal nail assessment.
This includes:
taking a detailed medical history
reviewing your risk factors
carrying out a physical examination of the affected nails
using fungal nail testing to help confirm the diagnosis
This may involve taking a nail clipping, photographing the infected nails, and measuring the line of fungal growth from the base of the nail so progress can be monitored over time.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your clinician will explain the most appropriate treatment plan and answer any questions you may have.
What is the Photodisinfection Therapy treatment process?
Before treatment begins, your clinician will trim, thin, and debride the affected nails to prepare them properly. This helps remove as much damaged fungal nail material as possible and allows the serum to penetrate more effectively.
You will also be given hygiene and prevention advice to help reduce the risk of reinfection during and after treatment.
After nail preparation:
the affected nails are soaked with the serum for 15 minutes
the feet are then placed under the red LED therapy light for a further 15 minutes
This means each treatment session is usually completed in around 30 minutes.
Photodisinfection Therapy is commonly performed every 2 weeks, with most patients requiring between 6 and 10 sessions depending on the severity of the infection.
Your clinician will also advise whether a combined treatment plan may be beneficial while undergoing Photodisinfection Therapy.
What happens after treatment?
Patients usually return around 2 to 3 months after their final treatment session so healthy nail growth can be assessed.
At this review, photographs are taken and compared with earlier images and nail growth measurements to help determine whether the treatment has been successful.
If further treatment is needed, your clinician will explain whether additional sessions are recommended or whether another treatment approach may be more suitable.
How successful is Photodisinfection Therapy?
Clinical studies have shown strong response rates for Photodisinfection Therapy in patients with fungal nail infections.
Because the source text refers to both 96% positive response and 97% of patients responded, it is safer to describe the treatment as having strong clinical results rather than locking the page to one exact figure unless your team has approved which number should be used consistently.
Results can vary depending on:
the severity of the infection
the number of nails involved
the type of fungal organism present
how well aftercare and prevention advice is followed
whether combined treatment is needed
As with all fungal nail treatments, visible improvement takes time because nails grow slowly.
Where is Photodisinfection Therapy available?
Photodisinfection Therapy is available at selected clinics across Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
This includes convenient access for patients in:
Pinehill
Smales Farm
Remuera
Botany
Hamilton East
Hamilton Central
Bethlehem
If you are unsure which clinic is most suitable, our team can help guide you to the right location for your consultation and treatment plan.
Podiatrist pricing and availability
Pricing for Photodisinfection Therapy can vary depending on:
your consultation
fungal nail testing
nail preparation
number of treatment sessions required
follow-up care
whether additional treatment is recommended
Your podiatrist will assess your nails, confirm whether Photodisinfection Therapy is suitable for you, and explain the most appropriate treatment plan before you begin.
To learn more, you can view:
our podiatrists
current pricing
clinic locations
appointment availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Photodisinfection Therapy?
Photodisinfection Therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment for fungal nail infections. It uses a light-activated photosensitising serum and targeted red LED light to help destroy fungal cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
How does Photodisinfection Therapy work?
A specialised serum is applied to the affected nails and allowed to soak in. The feet are then placed under a red LED light, which activates a photochemical reaction that helps destroy fungal cells.
Is Photodisinfection Therapy painful?
No. Photodisinfection Therapy is a painless treatment and is generally well tolerated. There is no downtime after treatment.
How effective is Photodisinfection Therapy?
Clinical studies have shown strong results, with high response rates after treatment. Results can vary depending on the severity of the infection, the number of nails involved, and how well aftercare advice is followed.
How many sessions will I need?
Photodisinfection Therapy is usually performed every two weeks, with most patients requiring between 6 and 10 treatment sessions depending on the level of infection.
How long does it take to see results?
Because nails grow slowly, visible improvement usually becomes more noticeable over several months. Your podiatrist will monitor your progress with photographs and nail growth measurements during and after treatment.
Is Photodisinfection Therapy safe?
Yes. Photodisinfection Therapy is a safe, drug-free, non-invasive treatment suitable for most patients, including those who may not be suitable for oral antifungal medication.
Can Photodisinfection Therapy be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Your podiatrist may recommend combining Photodisinfection Therapy with nail debridement, topical antifungal solutions, or another treatment protocol where clinically appropriate.
How much does Photodisinfection Therapy cost?
The cost of Photodisinfection Therapy can vary depending on the number of nails treated, the number of sessions required, and whether additional podiatry care is needed. Pricing will be explained before treatment begins, and you can also view the podiatry price list or contact reception for more information.
Where can I get Photodisinfection Therapy?
Photodisinfection Therapy is available at selected clinics across Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga. Our team can help guide you to the most suitable clinic for your consultation and treatment plan.
Book Your Photodisinfection Therapy Appointment Today
Photodisinfection Therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment option for fungal nail infections that uses light-activated technology to target fungal cells without damaging healthy tissue.
You will receive expert podiatry care, professional nail preparation, hygiene guidance to help reduce reinfection, and a tailored treatment plan based on the condition of your nails.
Appointments are available across Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
