To remove an ingrown toenail yourself safely, follow these steps:
- Soak Your Foot
Soak the affected foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt or mild soap for about 15 to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. This softens the skin and nail, reduces inflammation, and helps ease pain
- Cleanliness
Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the toenail to avoid infection
- Push Back the Skin Gently
After soaking, gently push back the skin around the nail edge using a clean cotton swab or your fingers. Do not force the skin back if it is too painful or resistant
- Lift the Nail Edge
Carefully lift the ingrown edge of the toenail using a small piece of clean cotton, dental floss, or a tiny piece of cotton wool. This helps guide the nail to grow above the skin edge instead of into it. Replace the cotton or floss daily after soaking
- Cut the Nail Straight Across
If you decide to trim the nail, cut it straight across starting from the edges, not from the middle, to prevent worsening the ingrown nail. Avoid cutting the corners or rounding the edges
- Apply Antibiotic Ointment and Bandage
Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic or antiseptic cream to the affected area to prevent infection. Then cover the toe loosely with a bandage to protect it from irritation
- Wear Proper Footwear
Wear open-toed shoes or loose-fitting footwear to reduce pressure on the toe while it heals
Important Notes:
- Do not attempt to forcibly remove the nail yourself if the ingrown toenail is severe, infected, or very painful. This can worsen the condition and cause infection
- If you notice increased redness, swelling, pus, or severe pain, see a healthcare professional promptly
- Professional treatment may involve partial or complete nail removal under local anesthesia if home care fails
By following these careful steps, many mild ingrown toenails can be managed at home safely and effectively
