How to Relieve an Ingrown Toenail

Overview

An ingrown toenail is a painful yet fairly common condition that can be chronic in some people. A small piece of the toenail embeds itself into the skin of the toe and may lead to infection if not treated. Relieving the pain of an ingrown toenail can usually be achieved at home, without the need for professional medical care.

Step 1

Take an oral pain reliever to relieve the discomfort of your ingrown toenail. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen is widely available without a prescription and can alleviate the pain from minor cases of ingrown nails.

Step 2

Fill a basin with warm water and soak your painful foot up to three times each day. Foot soaks can be done with either fresh or salt water, and may help reduce inflammation as well as take the edge of the pain.

Step 3

Help the ingrown toenail grow out by padding the nail with cotton. Gently put a small section of cotton padding underneath your toenail to separate the nail from your skin. Change the padding after each foot soak, or if the cotton becomes soiled.

Step 4

Cover the tender area of your toe with an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Bandage your toe after each application.

Step 5

Wear comfortable shoes that give your toes plenty of "breathing room." Sandals or boxy athletic shoes reduce the risk of pressing your sore toe against the side of your shoes as you walk.

Step 6

Visit your doctor if your ingrown toenail does not appear to be improving, if you experience severe pain or if the embedded nail begins to ooze pus. Your doctor may need to remove the ingrown toenail to relieve your pain and to prevent serious infection.