An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of your toe, and it can cause pain and disrupt your activities. You may experience pain, redness, and swelling, but there are methods you can use at home to manage the symptoms. Here is how to care for ingrown toenails to help avoid surgical removal:
Wear Roomier Shoes
Footwear that pinches your toes can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail. Narrow shoes put pressure on the sides of your toes, and they might force the nail to grow into the skin. Shoes with a wide toe box give your toes adequate space. To get relief, this reduces direct pressure on the toenail and the surrounding skin.
Soak in Warm Water
Soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water is a typical recommendation for at-home care. This practice may soften the skin around the nail, and it helps to keep the area clean. When you soak your foot a few times a day, you might find some relief from the discomfort. After soaking, dry your foot completely to prevent moisture from creating other issues.
To reduce tenderness, you can add Epsom salts to the water, as this is a traditional home remedy. The primary goal of soaking is to soften the skin. You should clean the area around the ingrown toenail. It is a simple, straightforward step you can take at home.
Use Antibiotic Creams
To help prevent infection, over-the-counter antibiotic creams are available. These creams are applied directly to the tender skin around the ingrown toenail, and you can apply the cream after you have soaked and thoroughly dried your foot. A small amount is typically sufficient for the affected area.
Applying the cream and then covering the toe with a bandage offers a layer of protection. The bandage keeps the cream in place, and it also shields the sensitive toe from bumps and friction. This combination of cream and bandage helps to maintain a clean environment for the toe.
You typically can find these creams at most pharmacies:
- Neomycin
- Polymyxin B
- Bacitracin
Following the product’s instructions for application is a good practice. Regular use as directed may help manage local symptoms. This step, combined with others, forms part of a broader care routine for your toe.
Avoid Cutting Too Short
The way you trim your toenails can affect whether they become ingrown. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. You should aim to trim your toenails straight across, as this technique guides the nail to grow forward instead of curving down into the skin. If your toenails are very thick or difficult to cut, you might soak them first to soften them.
Treat an Ingrown Toenail
While you address the symptoms with soaks and proper footwear, the nail itself continues to grow. These at-home methods are designed to provide relief and help prevent the condition from worsening. If pain increases or you notice signs of worsening, such as spreading redness, seeing a professional is advisable. Contact a foot and ankle clinic to schedule an appointment with a specialist.
