I am sorry you are going through this. Obviously it bothers you a great deal.
I don't think embarrassment is the problem - salons see all kinds of problems. However, I think expecting a pedicure with an active infection of any kind (fungal, viral or bacterial) is a very bad idea and probably against health regulations. I think you should question a salon that does it, because that means they would take others. Not sure you want to soak in the same tub as someone with a problem, even if they supposedly bleach it or disinfect it.
But I would also think that applying lotions and creams and things like nail polish would be the worst things for damaged skin and nails. I understand that you want to cover up and improve the look of your nails, but you may be aggravating things.
I think it's very understandable that topical creams don't work on such an ingrained infection - the skin is the largest organ and problems originate deep inside a lot of the time. That's why, for example, hydration is so important for all kinds of skin issues and skin health. You were on the right track in noticing that a systemic oral anti-fungal worked better, although of course many meds cause side effects and yours were pretty uncomfortable.
So from a healing standpoint, I wonder that you haven't looked into comprehensive cellular nutrition or that no one has recommended it. A single vitamin here, or that mineral there, or some essential oil (a single ingredient) has no scientific basis for improving health - that's not how our bodies utilize nutrients at all. Cells absorb and use food in combination - so it seems to me that you are out of balance if you cannot fight this thing off. Based on my work in food science education and my training with well known scientists on the Council for Responsible Nutrition, I would really recommend that you use a patented and balanced formula. I've seen some unbelievable cases of cellulitis, eczema, psoriasis, radiation burns and even acne show dramatic improvement. My husband has had skin problems which have virtually disappeared. I would think this would give you the same benefits as the drug you took (and many more, since it works on the whole body), without any side effects.