My Caratin Experience

My name is Nancy Peters. I am a licensed esthetician and content writer. I am recently married and live in sunny Tustin, Ca with my husband and two fur babies.  

In preparation for our honeymoon, I visited a local nail salon to make sure my nails were on point for a beautiful and much needed vacation.

We were fortunate to travel to Costa Rica for an adventure-filled trip trekking through rainforests complete with waterfalls, flora and fauna galore. We also did some exciting river rafting and hit the most beautiful spa nestled amongst breathtaking hot springs.  

Needless to say, by the time we got home my polish was a wreck. When I removed it I discovered that something wasn't right. My toenails were yellow, thick and flakey. I soon realized that a few of my fingernails were also flaking with whitish discoloration.  

I went into investigator mode trying to figure out what I had and how or where I got it. So, I did a deep dive on Google and confirmed it was toenail fungus. Being a beauty professional, I was in shock as I am, admittedly, obsessed with personal hygiene, cleanliness and aesthetics.  

I hated to blame the nail salon where my Mom and I had been going for some time, although it seemed the most obvious culprit.

I also recalled that I failed to wear sandals at the humid hot springs. So that was also a possibility. I know, how could I be so cavalier?

I went on to learn it could have been my hiking boots too!  Maybe it was the perfect storm of all three.  

Regardless of the cause I was embarrassed and determined to nip it in the bud pronto!

I was thrilled when I found Caratin. Being able to access their physicians and get treated without leaving the house was a huge plus.

The Caratin Topical treatment was easy to use, and their text reminders were super helpful for keeping me on track. Although I wasn't happy having to go sans polish for several months, I knew I was taking the right action for my health.  

I’m so happy to report that my fungus hasn't just improved, it is gone! I was excited to get back to my favorite activity, yoga. I had been avoiding the studio as I wasn't about to expose anyone in class until I knew I was in the clear plus to be honest, I was ashamed of my toenail fungus.  

I now do my own pedicures - a small price to pay for making sure my nails stay healthy.

I added back in polish just in time to attend a friend's wedding last month and all is good!

If I could give advice to those who suffer from fungus I would say:  

don't ignore it! It is treatable; you just need to be patient and commit to daily care for a few months to get it under control.

I try not to live in regret, but wish I had been smart and brought my own tools with me to the nail salon. I also wish I had worn sandals at the hot springs. Hindsight truly is 20/20 as they say!

Lastly, if you can't do your own manicures and pedicures, invest in quality tools and bring them with you. It is easy and a total health saver.