An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows into the toe, usually causing a localized infection, according to MedlinePlus. There are three stages of severity for ingrown toenails. Pain and swelling accompanies Stage 1, greater pain and discharge from bacterial infection characterizes Stage 2, and Stage 3 occurs at the onset of a lesion. Whereas you may may be able to treat an ingrown toenail at the first stage, a physician's care -- and often surgery -- is required for ingrown toenails in the latter stages.
Soak the Nail
Step 1
Fill a container or foot tub with enough warm water to fully submerge your foot.
Step 2
Soak the foot until the nail softens and the skin becomes saturated.
Step 3
Massage the affected area gently.
Step 4
Soak cotton or floss in antiseptic liquid.
Step 5
Slide the cotton or floss under the nail to gently lift it slightly and apply antiseptic to the infection.
Step 6
Repeat these Steps up to four times daily.
Trim the Nail
Step 1
Fill a container or foot tub with enough warm water to fully submerge your foot.
Step 2
Soak the foot in the warm water long enough to soften the nail.
Step 3
Trim the toenail in a straight, horizontal line.
Tips and Warnings
- While your ingrown toenail is healing, consider wearing sandals without socks to help the healing process.
- See a doctor immediately if an infection is visibly present. When trimming an ingrown toenail, do not trim around the edges.
Things You'll Need
- Floss or cotton
- Clean, sharp trimmer
- Medium-sized container or foot tub
- Warm water
- Antiseptic
- Sandals
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