Ingrown toenails can happen on any toe, but the big toe is the most vulnerable. Caused by improper nail trimming, toe injury or ill fitting shoes, ingrown toenails can become infected and painful. Failing to dissolve the ingrown toenail could lead to serious complications that could include bone infections. To avoid ingrown toenails, wear shoes that fit correctly and do not place pressure on the big toe. The pressure on the toe causes the nail to curve under the skin. As with any home treatment, consult with a doctor before proceeding.
Step 1
Soak the affected foot in a tub filled with warm water and Epsom salts for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps soften the skin and the ingrown toenail.
Step 2
Pull a small amount of cotton from a cotton ball. Wet it with antibiotic ointment or antiseptic before rolling it into the size of a grain of rice.
Step 3
Push the cotton under the edge of the ingrown toenail with tweezers. This lifts the nail slightly, allowing the nail to eventually grow above the skin.
Step 4
Repeat the steps two to three times a day until the nail is growing above the skin. Change the cotton each time you soak your foot and treat the nail with antibiotic ointment around the affected area.
Step 5
Wear loose-fitting shoes or sandals and avoid wearing high heels, while treating the ingrown toenail.
Things You'll Need
- Tub
- Epsom salts
- Cotton balls
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic
- Tweezers
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