Ingrown toenails are a painful and frustrating problem that affects millions of people. They occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort. The big toe is the most commonly affected. While severe cases require medical attention, many mild to moderate ingrown toenails can be managed safely at home. This article discusses eight effective and safe methods to treat and remove an ingrown toenail and prevent it from returning.
1. Warm Water Soak
The simplest and most effective first step is soaking your foot in warm water. Warm water helps soften the nail and skin, reduces swelling, and eases pain.
How to do it:
- Fill a basin with warm (not hot) water.
- Add a tablespoon of Epsom salt for extra soothing benefits.
- Soak your foot for 15–20 minutes.
- Repeat 2–3 times a day.
This method makes the toenail softer, which helps with other treatment steps such as lifting the nail edge.
2. Gently Lifting the Nail Edge
Once the toenail and skin are softened from soaking, you can gently lift the corner of the nail that is growing into the skin.
How to do it:
- Wash your hands and sterilize a small cotton ball or dental floss.
- After soaking, gently lift the ingrown edge with clean tweezers or a nail tool.
- Place a tiny piece of cotton or waxed dental floss under the nail to help it grow above the skin line.
Important:
Use only very gentle pressure. Never force the nail upward. If you feel severe pain, stop immediately.
3. Use an Antibiotic Ointment
Ingrown toenails can easily become infected because bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments. Applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment helps minimize infection risk.
How to do it:
- Clean the affected toe with warm water.
- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic cream such as bacitracin or polysporin.
- Cover with a breathable bandage.
Repeat this 1–2 times daily. If redness or pus increases, you may need professional treatment.
4. Wear Open-Toed or Wide-Toed Footwear
Tight shoes and socks are major contributors to ingrown toenails. Pressure forces the nail to grow inward, worsening the condition.
What to do:
- Avoid high heels and narrow shoes.
- Wear sandals or wide-toe athletic shoes.
- Choose breathable materials to reduce moisture buildup.
Reducing pressure allows the nail and skin to heal naturally.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Ingrown toenails can be painful, especially when walking. Over-the-counter pain medicine helps reduce inflammation and makes the healing process more comfortable.
Options include:
- Ibuprofen (reduces pain and swelling)
- Acetaminophen (reduces pain only)
Always follow the recommended dose and check with a doctor first if you have medical conditions.
6. Proper Nail Trimming Techniques
Incorrect trimming is one of the most common causes of ingrown toenails. Learning the proper way to cut nails prevents further damage.
Correct trimming tips:
- Cut toenails straight across; do not round the corners.
- Do not cut nails too short.
- Use clean, sharp nail clippers.
- Avoid digging into the corners of the nail.
Allowing the nail to grow out naturally prevents it from curving inward.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. While it does not “cure” an ingrown nail, it may help reduce symptoms and prevent infection.
How to do it:
- Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts warm water.
- Soak your foot for 15 minutes.
- Rinse and dry your foot thoroughly.
This method is best used as an additional remedy—not a standalone treatment.
8. When to Seek Professional Medical Treatment
Not all ingrown toenails can be treated at home. Sometimes the nail becomes too deeply embedded, infected, or painful. Podiatrists (foot specialists) have safe and effective procedures to remove part or all of the toenail if needed.
Seek medical help if you notice:
- Severe swelling or redness
- Pus, drainage, or a foul smell
- Persistent pain
- The skin growing over the nail
- Symptoms lasting more than one week
- You have diabetes or poor circulation
Professional options include:
- Partial nail removal under local anesthetic
- Removing infected tissue
- Permanent nail border removal to prevent recurrence
These procedures are quick, safe, and offer long-term relief for chronic ingrown toenails.
Prevention Tips
To keep ingrown toenails from returning, adopt these habits:
- Trim toenails straight across.
- Keep feet clean and dry.
- Wear properly fitting shoes.
- Avoid cutting nails too short.
- Do not pick or tear toenails by hand.
- Moisturize the skin around your nails to prevent cracking.
Good foot hygiene and proper nail care are your best defense.
Conclusion
Ingrown toenails are painful and irritating, but with proper care, most can be treated safely at home. Warm soaks, gentle nail lifting, antibiotic ointment, and choosing the right footwear make a big difference. However, it is important to know your limits—severe cases or infections require professional attention. By following these eight effective methods, you can relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent future ingrown toenails from developing.
