Taking care of your feet isn't always as simple as trimming your nails weekly and getting the occasional pedicure. If you suffer from toenail problems, your toes may be painful or unsightly. In some cases, infected toenails may become serious and require a doctor's care. Consult your doctor if you have any additional symptoms. Otherwise, you can maintain your toenails at home using over-the-counter remedies and home care if your doctor approves.
Step 1
Cut the nails short and straight across with nail scissors or a nail trimmer to prevent ingrown toenails, nail fungus and other nail diseases, says Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D. in the article "Nail Disorders" on the University of Maryland Medical Center website.
Step 2
Place a small piece of a cotton ball underneath the upper corner of the toenail if you notice your nail is irritating the skin on your toe, recommends MayoClinic.com. Ingrown toenails may occur due to shoes pressing against the foot and can cause the toenail to cut into the skin of the toe.
Step 3
Wear flip-flops when going into public showers, like at the gym or the beach to prevent toenail fungus. Going barefoot may cause nail fungus, which causes toenails to turn yellow and crumble.
Step 4
Alternate your athletic shoes, says "Reader's Digest" in the article "14 Tips for Strong and Healthy Nails." Wearing the same athletic shoes every day may cause nail fungus. Allow your shoes to dry completely before putting them back on again and wear a clean pair of socks every day.
Step 5
Add more zinc to your diet if you notice white spots on your toenails. Eating foods like milk and hard-boiled eggs will increase your zinc intake throughout the day, says "Reader's Digest."
Tips and Warnings
- If you'd rather not eat foods that are rich in zinc, take over-the-counter zinc supplements, which are available at the drugstore or grocery store.
- Keep nail scissors and nail trimmers out of the reach of children.
Things You'll Need
- Nail scissors or nail trimmer
- Cotton ball
- Flip-flops
- Athletic shoes
- Milk
- Hard-boiled egg
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