What Is KeryFlex and How Does It Work?
KeryFlex is a medical-grade nail restoration system, not a treatment for underlying conditions. Instead, it offers a cosmetic solution: a flexible resin bonded to your existing nail to create a natural-looking nail.
The application is performed in the clinic by our podiatrists Stephanie Carter and Matthew Dilnot and typically includes four components:
- Nail Preparation: Cutting, clearing and debulking of the nail to provide an appropriate surface for KeryFlex to be applied
- Bonding Agent: Used to help the resin adhere to the natural nail.
- Resin Application: A lightweight, sculptable gel that restores shape and thickness.
- UV Sealant: Cured under UV light to form a non-porous, durable nail overlay.
The process usually takes 30-40 minutes, depending on how many nails are being treated and the time it takes to prepare the existing nail.
Pros of KeryFlex
- Instant Cosmetic Transformation: Within a single clinic visit, you get a natural-looking nail, smooth, shaped, and presentable, with no drying time.
- Suitable to be Used Under Nail Polish: As soon as your KeryFlex has been applied it is dry and ready for polish to be applied either at home or in a salon. It is safe to use with polish remover, so you are able to reapply multiple times on one KeryFlex nail.
- Flexibility & Durability: Unlike rigid acrylics, KeryFlex moves with your toe, reducing damage and discomfort. Plus, it’s non-porous and resists acetone, detergents, and polish remover.
- Safe for Damaged or Recovering Nails:Ideal for nails affected by fungal infections, trauma, psoriasis, onychodystrophy, or discoloration, it improves appearance while allowing the natural nail to grow underneath.
- Non-Abrasive and Hygienic Application: Applied by our trained podiatrists under sterile conditions, far safer and cleaner than typical salon acrylics.
- Helps Boost Confidence: Aesthetic improvements can help alleviate the embarrassment associated with unsightly nails.
- Compatible with Ongoing Treatments: You can still use topical antifungals or laser therapy, just don’t apply them directly on the KeryFlex surface.
Cons of KeryFlex
- Cosmetic Only – Not a Cure: KeryFlex doesn’t eliminate fungal infections or nail disorders—it just masks them. Our podiatrists are experts in addressing the underlying issue and are able to guide you in managing these separately.
- Need for Maintenance: Typically lasts 6–8 weeks, after which reapplication by a podiatrist is required. This can be stretched out in some cases where the underlying nail growth is particularly slow.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: You must have at least 30% of your natural nailremaining to provide a bonding surface. Conditions like peripheral vascular disease, arterial insufficiency, peripheral neuropathy, ingrown nails, pregnancy/nursing, or allergies to ingredients may make you ineligible – chat to your podiatrist about this prior to your appointment.
- Possible Lifting or Early Detachment: Especially when there’s minimal natural nail or high physical activity (e.g., runners), lifting may occur within days, this is rare and your podiatrist will discuss this with you.
- Removal Must Be Professional: KeryFlex can’t be clipped or clipped off like a regular nail. Removal must be done by a podiatrist with a drill or burr to prevent nail bed damage
KeryFlex is a smart choice if you’re looking for a quick cosmetic fix for damaged nails. It’s fast, flexible, safe, and can significantly improve your confidence.
But remember, it’s not a cure, requires maintenance, and may not suit everyone. Before deciding, consult with your podiatrist to ensure it’s the right path for your unique circumstances.
Author
Written by Stephanie Carter who performs Keryflex application.