15 Steps to Fix an Ingrown Toenail

The simplest remedy is to soak your foot in warm, soapy water. This helps reduce swelling, soften the ingrown toenail’s surrounding skin, and ease any pain. There’s no need to use a fancy home foot spa. Simply use a bowl that’s large enough for you to put your foot in. Don’t use hot water as this will cause your toenail to swell. Soak the affected foot for 15-30 minutes, 2-3 times a day. For additional relief, try adding some Epsom salts to the water.

After soaking, try the Ingrown Toenail Treatment to effectively reduce inflammation and pain, speeding up the healing process for your toenail.

Soaking your foot regularly can help to ease the pain, but you may also need to encourage the toenail to grow in a different direction. Gently lift the corner of the nail and working waxed dental floss or a small piece of cotton wool beneath it. Replace the dental floss or cotton wool daily. This method may be painful the first time you lift, but persevere, and within a couple of weeks, your ingrown toenail should grow back out again.

For precise and safe lifting of your ingrown toenail, try out the Teenitor Ingrown Toenail Tools Kit, designed to gently realign and ease your toenail discomfort.

Over-the-counter antibiotic cream or ointment can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing of ingrown toenails. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the antibiotic to the ingrown toenail and the surrounding area. Loosely cover the toe with a bandage and repeat the process every morning and evening. You can also use antibiotic cream or ointment after soaking your foot in warm water.

Enhance your foot care regimen with the BTea Tree Oil Foot Soak, which naturally soothes and sanitizes the skin.

A leading cause of ingrown toenails is wearing shoes that are too tight. When your existing ingrown nail is trying to heal, it’s even more important to give your feet room and avoid wearing shoes that put pressure on the toes. Try wearing sandals or open-toed shoes as often as possible. This may not be the most stylish look, especially with a bandage on your toe, but it’s better than having a trip to the doctor to have your toenail removed.

If the pain from an ingrown toenail is causing you discomfort, try taking over-the-counter pain medication. If there is some swelling, an anti-inflammatory can help reduce this as well as provide relief from the pain. You may also want to take pain relief medication if you are planning on using the method of lifting your toenail.

Another remedy for ingrown toenails that’s available from many pharmacies is a toe brace. These usually consist of a strip of thin, adhesive material that you glue onto the nail. Initially, the toe brace will protect your skin from the sharp nail. However, over time, the brace helps lift the edges of the toenail so it will no longer grow into the skin.

If your home remedies haven’t worked after a few days and your ingrown toenail is still bothering you, make an appointment to see a doctor. Additionally, if there are any signs of infection, such as redness, pus, swelling, or a foul smell, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Most importantly, those who have diabetes or any condition that could affect blood flow to the feet should speak with a physician before trying any self-help remedies.

If your ingrown toenail is causing discomfort due to an infection, a doctor will probably prescribe oral antibiotics. This will clear up the infection and prevent bacteria from taking root beneath the nail. Your doctor will probably try to lift the nail and pack it with gauze or cotton. Make sure they provide you with instructions on how to treat it when you are home.

In cases where the nail is significantly embedded in the skin, a doctor may opt to remove part of the nail. It may sound extreme, but this will relieve the pressure, pain, and irritation that an ingrown toenail causes. It may not look pleasant, but your nail will grow back within 3-4 months.

The last resort for recurring or severe cases of ingrown toenail would be to remove the entire affected nail. Even then, the nail will still grow back but can be slightly misshapen.

The best way to fix an ingrown toenail is to not get one in the first place. There are a few steps you can take to prevent them from occurring. Always wear good-fitting shoes that leave plenty of space in the toe area rather than pushing down on your toes. Socks and hosiery should also allow your toes to move freely.

Clip your toenails every 2-3 weeks to keep them at a reasonable length. Cut them straight across rather than making them rounded. Curved toenails have a greater chance of growing inward. With the right preventative care, you should never be bothered by ingrown toenails.

Nature offers many healing agents for ingrown toenails, with essential oils among the most effective. In particular, oils like tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus are known for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. When diluted with a carrier oil and applied to an affected toenail, they can provide significant relief. These oils soothe the skin and promote faster healing, making them an excellent addition to any foot care routine.

Many people underestimate the therapeutic benefits of salt baths, but immersing an affected foot in warm water with sea or Epsom salt can work wonders. This simple remedy not only alleviates pain but also combats potential infections. That's because salt is a natural disinfectant that cleanses the foot area and reduces inflammation. Regular salt baths, therefore, are one of the best ways to prevent and treat ingrown toenails.

Foot health often starts with the correct footwear. Shoes with ample space in their toe box ensure toes aren't cramped, while footwear made from breathable materials keeps feet dry, reducing the risk of fungal infections. Proper arch support is also vital, ensuring even weight distribution while minimizing pressure on toenails. Investing in well-fitted and quality shoes can prevent problems from occurring.

Trimming toenails is a seemingly simple task that requires attention to detail. Cutting the nails straight across and avoiding overly rounded corners can significantly reduce the risk of them growing into the skin. It's essential to use sharp, sanitized nail clippers and to trim during the day when there's lots of light. Proper technique can make the difference between healthy toenails and painful ingrown ones!

Awareness of the dangers of ingrown toenails is the first step towards prevention. If left untreated, this problem can lead to severe complications, including infections that can spread deeper into the foot. Recognizing early signs such as redness, swelling, or pus and seeking professional care is crucial. While people can treat minor cases at home, it's essential to know when to consult a healthcare professional to prevent further complications.