To treat an ingrown toenail, you can follow these steps:
Home Treatment
- Soak the foot in warm water (with or without Epsom salt or mild soap) for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. This softens the nail and skin, reduces swelling, and eases pain
- Keep the foot dry outside of soaking times to prevent infection
- Lift the ingrown nail edge gently after soaking by placing a small piece of clean cotton, dental floss, or gauze under the nail to encourage it to grow above the skin edge. Replace this daily after soaking
- Apply petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment to the affected area to reduce infection risk and protect tender skin
- Wear open-toed or wide, comfortable shoes to avoid pressure on the toe until it improves
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease pain and inflammation
What to Avoid
- Do not cut the toenail too short or round the edges, as this can worsen the ingrown nail
- Do not pick at the nail or try to forcibly remove it yourself
- Avoid tight, narrow, or ill-fitting shoes
When to See a Doctor
- If the toe is very painful, swollen, red, or has pus (signs of infection)
- If home treatment does not improve the condition after a few days
- If you have diabetes or other conditions that affect foot health
Medical Treatments
- A healthcare provider may lift the nail and place cotton or a splint underneath to help it grow properly
- In more severe cases, partial or complete removal of the nail may be necessary, usually under local anesthesia
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an infection
- Surgical options may include removing part of the nail and possibly the underlying tissue to prevent recurrence
Prevention Tips
- Cut toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short
- Wear properly fitting shoes that do not compress the toes
- Maintain good foot hygiene and keep feet clean and dry
Following these guidelines can effectively treat and prevent ingrown toenails. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, professional medical evaluation is recommended.
