No; and this is where many toenail fungus suffers get confused. Not all lasers are the same, different doctors offer different laser treatments and they are not all the same. Only two lasers currently on the market in the United States are FDA (Food and Drug Administration) cleared for treating fungal nails (Onychomycosis). These two lasers are the GenesisPlus laser system made by Cutera and the Pinpointe foot laser made by Patholase. Other medical laser manufactures have somewhat similar lasers that are used for laser hair removal, scars, warts, tattoo removal and other cosmetic purposes. Some doctors are using non-FDA cleared lasers for treatment of fungal nails, but this is what is known as “off label” use.
These “off label” use lasers being marketed as treating toenail fungus may not have the same safety features and or clinical studies to back up effectiveness claims. In addition, the physicians marketing these lasers may not have the same level of training or experience as other physicians that are using FDA cleared laser devices for treatment of toenail and fingernail fungus infections. Also, some laser clinics have nurses or medical assistants performing the laser treatments for toenail and fingernail fungus treatments, rather than a physician, usually a Podiatrist (foot and ankle specialist) or M.D. (Medical Doctor). Podiatrists are most commonly the type of physician performing the laser treatment for toenail fungus as toenail fungus is the most common foot problem seen by Podiatrists (they look at feet all day).