Ingrown toenails can occur when one or both sides of your toenail break through and grow into the soft skin of your toe, resulting in irritation, pain, swelling or infection. Ingrown toenails can develop quickly and on any toenail. They can be the result of an injury to your toe and can also occur if your nails are trimmed too short, causing the skin on both sides to cover the corners of the nail so the nail grows in between. If your nails are cut in a rounded fashion, the nail can break into your skin, and wearing tight-fitting shoes can push skin on either side of your nail. According to KidsHealth.org, ingrown toenails can be treated at home if they are caught early.
Step 1
Soak the affected foot in warm saltwater for 20 minutes two to three times a day. You can also soak your foot in warm, soapy water. This will help reduce pain and may help the nail to grow out naturally. Soaking your foot works best for mild ingrown toenails.
Step 2
Place a piece of dry cotton under the ingrown corner of the nail if you are able to reach it. This will help the nail to grow away from your skin. Change the cotton every day with a fresh piece.
Step 3
Massage the side of your affected toe gently. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, this may help reduce inflammation while your toe heals.
Step 4
Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment to the area in order to prevent infection. Follow the directions on the product's packaging.
Step 5
Visit your doctor. If your ingrown toenail does not heal on its own, your doctor can help treat the condition. If the toenail is left untreated, it can lead to a bone infection. Your doctor may need to perform surgery in order to remove the embedded nail corner. If you have persistent ingrown toenails, your doctor could remove a large portion of the nail or the entire nail.
Tips and Warnings
- While you are waiting for your ingrown toenail to heal, keep your feet clean and dry. Wear clean socks and open-toed shoes or sandals. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the pain of an ingrown toenail, according to MayoClinic.com. You can help prevent ingrown toenails by cutting your toenails straight across and wearing shoes that fit properly.
- See your doctor if you have any symptoms of an infection with your ingrown toenail, such as an odor or discharge.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Salt
- Soap
- Dry cotton
- Antibiotic cream or ointment
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