Infant toenails are tiny and delicate and may be prone to a number of problems. In order to reduce the chance of infant toenail problems, they should be kept clean and dry to avoid peeling and fungal infections. They should be trimmed slightly when necessary to prevent them growing into the nail bed.
Toenail Malalignment
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some children are born with a condition known as congenital malalignment of the great toenails. These infants have toenails that grow at an angle rather than growing straight out from their toes. Though this is not considered a serious condition, it can lead to ingrown toenails if left untreated.
Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail is one that has curled over and is growing back into the skin at the top or side of the toe. According to the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, early warning signs are swelling or redness around the nail area. If untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected. If you think that your infant has an ingrown toenail you should consult your pediatrician right away.
Rough Toenails
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, rough nails or trachyonychia is another common nail problem in young children. The nails become rough and sometimes brittle. They may also become thickened and discolored. Often the cause is not known, though the problem may be connected to other disorders such as eczema or psoriasis.
Caring for Infant Toenails
Infant toenails are very delicate and should be treated with special care. When you bathe your child, make sure that you thoroughly dry the areas between the toes and around the toenails. This will prevent the development of toenail fungus. If you notice any dryness around the toenails, apply baby lotion to prevent the skin from cracking and becoming infected. Trim nails regularly to prevent ingrown toenails.
How to Trim Infant Toenails
According to Mama's Health, although your infant's nails may appear to be growing rapidly, this is not the case. Rather, they appear to be growing quickly because your child's toes and fingers are so small. Nevertheless, infant nails need to be trimmed on a regular basis. You infant's toenails will grow a little slower than her fingernails. To trim them, use baby nail clippers as these are specially designed to do the job properly and safely.
