Ingrown toenails can occur if you trim your nails, especially on your big toe, too short or at a curvature so that the nail aligns with the shape of your toe. Doing so may result in the nail growing into the skin of your toe, especially since many nails tend to curl downwards on their sides. Wearing shoes that are too tight can also contribute to an ingrown toenail. If you have an ingrown toenail, you can treat it at home if you catch it early enough.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Step 1
Soak your foot in warm water three to four times daily, but keep the toe dry otherwise. Gently massage the infected with an antibiotic cream area after each soak. Keep soaking the foot and applying the antibiotic cream for a few days, and allow the nail to grow.
Step 2
Apply cotton underneath the nail after soaking in warm water to soften it. You can also thread some dental floss underneath the nail. Both of these techniques prop the nail up and will encourage it grow out instead of into the skin. Only place cotton or dental floss underneath the toenail after soaking it to ensure that the nail is soft and not brittle. Continue to allow the nail to grow out.
Step 3
Trim the nail in a straight line across once it has grown out to a length where it can safely be cut. Only use sharp and clean clippers when trimming ingrown nails. Soak the foot before you trim to soften the nail. Do not cut the nail too short or the condition could worsen. If portions of the nail are still ingrown before cutting, allow the nail to continue to grow. Do not cut out the nail if it is still embedded.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear sandals while you have an ingrown nail. Avoid placing any type of pressure on the affected foot, and skip activities such as running or playing soccer.
- If the ingrown nail causes severe pain and/or puss, see your doctor for professional treatment, which may include surgery. If the ingrown nail does not grow out after following these steps, see your doctor to have the nail trimmed.
Things You'll Need
- Clippers
- Cotton or dental floss
- Antibiotics
