How to properly cut your toenails. Expert Guide: How to Properly Cut Toenails and Prevent Ingrown Nails

26.08.202309.07.2023 by alexxlab

What causes ingrown toenails. How to identify symptoms of ingrown toenails. What are the best treatment options for ingrown toenails. How to properly cut toenails to prevent ingrowth. When to seek medical attention for ingrown toenails. What surgical treatments are available for severe cases. How to maintain proper foot hygiene and prevent future ingrown nails.

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Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes and Risk Factors

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. While this condition can affect any toe, it most commonly impacts the big toe. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help you take preventive measures.

Common causes of ingrown toenails include:

Incorrect toenail cutting technique
Irregular or curved toenails
Tight footwear that puts pressure on toes
Toenail injuries
Poor posture
Inadequate foot hygiene
Genetic predisposition

Are certain individuals more prone to ingrown toenails? People with sweaty feet, such as teenagers, may be at higher risk. Additionally, older adults face increased risk due to thickening toenails that come with age. Those who engage in activities that put repeated pressure on the feet, like ballet, football, kickboxing, and soccer, are also more susceptible to this condition.

Recognizing Symptoms: Early Signs to Advanced Stages

Identifying the symptoms of ingrown toenails early can prevent complications and facilitate timely treatment. The condition typically progresses through stages, with symptoms worsening over time if left untreated.

Early-Stage Symptoms

Tender, swollen, or hardened skin next to the nail
Pain when pressure is applied to the toe
Fluid buildup around the toe

Advanced-Stage Symptoms (Infection)

Red, swollen skin
Increased pain
Bleeding
Pus discharge
Overgrowth of skin around the toe

How can you differentiate between a simple ingrown toenail and an infected one? An infected ingrown toenail will typically exhibit signs of inflammation, such as redness, warmth, and swelling, often accompanied by pus discharge. If you notice these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Diagnosis and Medical Assessment

When should you consult a healthcare professional for an ingrown toenail? If home treatments fail to improve the condition or if you notice signs of infection, it’s time to see a doctor. Your healthcare provider will likely diagnose an ingrown toenail through a physical examination.

In some cases, additional diagnostic measures may be necessary. For instance, if an infection is suspected or the nail has grown deep into the skin, your doctor might order an X-ray. This imaging test can reveal the extent of nail growth into the skin and determine if an injury caused the condition.

Effective Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

For mild cases of ingrown toenails without infection, several home remedies can provide relief and promote healing. These treatments are generally safe and can be effective when applied consistently.

Warm Water Soaks: Immerse your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily. This softens the skin and reduces inflammation.
Cotton Ball Technique: After soaking, gently push the skin away from the nail edge using a cotton ball soaked in olive oil.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Use acetaminophen to manage pain associated with the ingrown toenail.
Topical Antibiotics: Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, to prevent infection.
Proper Footwear: Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that don’t put pressure on your toes.

How long should you try home remedies before seeking professional help? Generally, if you don’t see improvement after a few days to a few weeks of consistent home treatment, or if the pain worsens, it’s time to consult a doctor.

Professional Treatment Options for Severe Cases

When home remedies prove ineffective or an infection develops, medical intervention becomes necessary. Healthcare professionals have several treatment options at their disposal, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical procedures.

Conservative Treatments

For mild to moderate cases, your doctor may recommend:

Lifting the nail: The healthcare provider may carefully lift the ingrown edge of the nail and place cotton or a splint under it to help the nail grow above the skin edge.
Partial nail avulsion: This involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia.
Antibiotics: If an infection is present, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.

Surgical Treatments

For severe or recurring cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common surgical procedures include:

Partial nail removal: Only the ingrown portion of the nail is removed.
Complete nail removal: The entire nail is removed in severe cases.
Matricectomy: This procedure involves removing part of the nail bed to prevent the nail from growing back into the skin.

How effective are surgical treatments for ingrown toenails? According to the NHS, partial nail removal is 98% effective in preventing future ingrown toenails, making it a highly reliable solution for chronic cases.

Proper Toenail Cutting Techniques to Prevent Ingrowth

One of the most effective ways to prevent ingrown toenails is to adopt proper nail cutting techniques. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this painful condition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Toenails Correctly

Soften the nails: Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften the nails, making them easier to cut.
Use appropriate tools: Invest in a good quality pair of toenail clippers or scissors designed specifically for toenails.
Cut straight across: Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounding the corners. This is crucial as angling the sides of the nail can encourage ingrowth.
Maintain proper length: Keep your toenails at a moderate length – not too short, but not so long that they’re prone to injury.
File rough edges: After cutting, use a nail file to smooth any rough edges, but maintain the straight shape.
Clean up: Wash your feet and tools after trimming to maintain hygiene.

How often should you cut your toenails? The frequency depends on individual nail growth, but generally, cutting them every 6-8 weeks is sufficient. Remember, consistency in proper nail care is key to preventing ingrown toenails.

Lifestyle Changes and Preventive Measures

While proper nail cutting is crucial, adopting certain lifestyle changes and preventive measures can further reduce your risk of developing ingrown toenails. These practices not only protect your toenails but also contribute to overall foot health.

Footwear Choices

Your choice of shoes plays a significant role in toenail health. How can you select the right footwear to prevent ingrown toenails?

Opt for shoes with a wide toe box to give your toes ample space.
Avoid high heels and pointy-toed shoes that compress your toes.
Ensure your shoes fit properly – not too tight or too loose.
Choose breathable materials to reduce foot sweating.

Foot Hygiene

Maintaining proper foot hygiene is essential in preventing ingrown toenails and other foot problems. Follow these tips:

Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to the areas between your toes.
Dry your feet thoroughly after washing, especially between the toes.
Change your socks daily, or more often if your feet tend to sweat excessively.
Consider using foot powder to keep your feet dry if you’re prone to sweaty feet.

Protective Measures for At-Risk Individuals

If you’re at higher risk for ingrown toenails due to activities or physical conditions, consider these additional preventive measures:

Wear protective footwear during high-risk activities, such as sports.
Use silicone toe protectors or orthotic devices if recommended by a podiatrist.
Manage underlying conditions that may contribute to ingrown toenails, such as fungal infections or diabetes.

By implementing these lifestyle changes and preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing ingrown toenails and maintain overall foot health.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While many cases of ingrown toenails can be managed at home, certain situations require prompt medical attention. Recognizing these scenarios is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Signs of Severe Infection

Seek immediate medical care if you notice any of the following symptoms:

Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
Significant redness or swelling that extends beyond the toe
Pus or discharge from the affected area
Fever or chills, which may indicate a systemic infection

High-Risk Conditions

Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of complications from ingrown toenails. If you have any of the following conditions, consult a healthcare provider at the first sign of an ingrown toenail:

Diabetes
Peripheral arterial disease
Weakened immune system
Nerve damage in the feet

Why is prompt medical attention crucial for these high-risk groups? These conditions can impair healing and increase the risk of severe infections, potentially leading to more serious complications if left untreated.

Failed Home Treatment

If you’ve been treating an ingrown toenail at home and notice any of the following, it’s time to see a doctor:

No improvement after a week of home treatment
Worsening pain or swelling
Development of new symptoms
Recurring ingrown toenails despite preventive measures

Remember, early intervention by a healthcare professional can prevent minor issues from escalating into more serious problems. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re unsure about the severity of your condition.

Long-Term Management and Follow-Up Care

After treatment for an ingrown toenail, whether at home or by a medical professional, proper follow-up care is essential to ensure complete healing and prevent recurrence. Long-term management involves a combination of self-care practices and, in some cases, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.

Post-Treatment Care

Following treatment for an ingrown toenail, adhere to these guidelines:

Keep the affected area clean and dry
Apply antibiotic ointment as directed by your healthcare provider
Wear open-toed shoes or sandals until the toe heals completely
Avoid strenuous activities that put pressure on the affected toe
Continue soaking the foot in warm water daily to promote healing

Monitoring for Recurrence

Even after successful treatment, it’s important to monitor your toenails for signs of recurrence. Pay attention to:

Any changes in nail shape or growth pattern
Persistent pain or discomfort around the nail
Redness or swelling that doesn’t subside

How often should you inspect your toenails for potential issues? A weekly self-examination is generally sufficient, but increase the frequency if you’re prone to ingrown toenails or have risk factors.

Regular Podiatric Check-ups

For individuals with recurring ingrown toenails or those at high risk due to medical conditions, regular check-ups with a podiatrist may be beneficial. These visits can help:

Assess the overall health of your feet and toenails
Identify potential problems before they become severe
Provide professional nail care if needed
Adjust treatment plans based on your specific needs

How frequently should you schedule podiatric check-ups? This varies based on individual needs, but generally, annual or bi-annual visits are recommended for those with a history of foot problems.

Adapting Lifestyle for Long-Term Prevention

Long-term management of ingrown toenails often requires lifestyle adjustments. Consider incorporating these habits into your daily routine:

Maintain a consistent nail care routine, including proper cutting techniques
Choose footwear that provides adequate space for your toes
Practice good foot hygiene, including daily washing and thorough drying
Address any underlying conditions that may contribute to nail problems, such as fungal infections
Stay aware of any changes in your feet or nails and address concerns promptly

By following these long-term management strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of recurring ingrown toenails and maintain overall foot health. Remember, consistent care and early intervention are key to preventing more serious complications.

Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

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Home treatment

To treat your ingrown toenail at home, try:

soaking your feet in warm water for about 15 to 20 minutes three to four times per day (At other times, your shoes and feet should be kept dry.)
pushing skin away from the toenail edge with a cotton ball soaked in olive oil
using over-the-counter medicines, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), for the pain
applying a topical antibiotic, such as polymyxin and neomycin (both present in Neosporin) or a steroid cream, to prevent infection

Try home treatments for a few days to a few weeks. If the pain worsens or you find it difficult to walk or perform other activities because of the nail, see your doctor.

If the toenail does not respond to home treatments or an infection occurs, you may need surgery. In cases of infection, stop all home treatments and see your doctor.

Surgical treatment

There are different types of surgical treatments for ingrown toenails. Partial nail removal only involves removing the piece of nail that is digging into your skin. Your doctor numbs your toe and then narrows the toenail. According to the NHS, partial nail removal is 98 percent effective for preventing future ingrown toenails.

During a partial nail removal, the sides of the nail are cut away so that the edges are completely straight. A piece of cotton is placed under the remaining portion of the nail to keep the ingrown toenail from recurring. Your doctor may also treat your toe with a compound called phenol, which keeps the nail from growing back.

Total nail removal may be used if your ingrown nail is caused by thickening. Your doctor will give you a local pain injection and then remove the entire nail in a procedure called a matrixectomy.

After surgery

After surgery, your doctor will send you home with your toe bandaged. You will probably need to keep your foot raised for the next one to two days and wear special footwear to allow your toe to heal properly.

Avoid movement as much as possible. Your bandage is usually removed two days after surgery. Your doctor will advise you to wear open-toe shoes and to do daily salt water soaks until your toe heals. You will also be prescribed pain relief medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.

Your toenail will likely grow back a few months after a partial nail removal surgery. If the entire nail is removed down to the base (the nail matrix under your skin), a toenail can take over a year to grow back.

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can cause an infection in the bone in your toe. A toenail infection can also lead to foot ulcers, or open sores, and a loss of blood flow to the infected area. Tissue decay and tissue death at the site of infection are possible.

A foot infection can be more serious if you have diabetes. Even a small cut, scrape, or ingrown toenail may quickly become infected due to the lack of blood flow and nerve sensitivity. See your doctor right away if you have diabetes and are concerned about an ingrown toenail infection.

If you have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails, they may keep coming back or appear on multiple toes at once. Your quality of life may be affected by pain, infections, and other painful foot issues that require multiple treatments or surgeries. In this case, your doctor may recommend a partial or full matrixectomy to remove the toenails causing chronic pain. Read more about foot care and diabetes.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by making several lifestyle changes:

Trim your toenails straight across and make sure that the edges do not curve in.
Avoid cutting toenails too short.
Wear proper fitting shoes, socks, and tights.
Wear steel-toe boots if you work in hazardous conditions.
If your toenails are abnormally curved or thick, surgery may be necessary to prevent ingrown nails.

A:

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Why Do We Have Nails? The Important Roles They Play

Why Do We Have Nails? The Important Roles They Play

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Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D. O. — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA on April 22, 2020

Paws and claws: Many experts believe fingernails and toenails have evolutionary similarities to these structures.

Since fingernails must have more of a purpose than for creating cool manicure styles, this article will take a look at why we have fingernails and toenails — and the clues they give us about overall health.

According to an anthropology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, fingernails are present in all primates, including humans, monkeys, and apes, to support our fingertips.

When taking proportions into account, our fingertips are wider on average than those of most other primates.

Fingernails play several important roles in the body that may provide a sign as to why we have them. These include:

Strengthening. The hard, outer covering on the tips of the fingernails makes the fingertips one of the strongest parts of the hand. This makes performing everyday tasks, including gripping, less risky. The fingernails have many small blood vessels to supply them, and can maintain their blood flow even when you’re gripping something very tightly.
Protection. Having a fingernail covering can prevent viruses and bacteria from entering the body. If a person’s nail bed is disrupted, they may be more at risk for nail infections.
Enhancing fine motor movements. The fingernails enhance your ability to scratch and separate, such as pages in a book or hairs on your head. A person can also use their fingernails to pick up items.
Sensation. While you may not think of the nails as being as sensitive as your fingertips, there’s an intricate network of nerves underneath the nail.

While a person doesn’t have to have fingernails to survive, they can certainly help with many tasks.

Can you imagine if your fingertips tried to roll backward when you held something? The strength and existence of fingernails helps keep this from happening (thank goodness!).

The main function of toenails is likely for protection, compared to enhancing grip or the fine motor functions the fingernails have.

The tops of the toes are vulnerable to injury and, as we’ve all learned the hard way, stubbing. By having a protective nail on top of the toe, the toes are less vulnerable to injury and infections.

Some slight differences in purpose are reflected in rates of nail growth. Fingernails grow around twice as fast as toenails, according to a small 2010 study.

This study of 22 healthy American young adults found that fingernails grow an average of 3.47 millimeters (mm) a month, while toenails grow an average of 1.62 mm a month.

The big toenail grows the fastest on the feet, while the pinkie fingernail is the slowest growing of the fingernails.

Fingernails have greater blood flow, in part because they’re closer to your heart. The legs and feet are also subject to greater concerns related to blood flow, such as deep vein thrombosis or other peripheral vascular diseases. This can affect toenail growth and toenail function.

Fingernails comprise three layers of tissue called keratin. Keratin is a tissue type that has amino acid proteins. Keratin is naturally present in your hair and nails. It’s also a component found in other animals, including horse hooves.

The way keratin cells link to form together can influence the consistency and feel of the fingernails. For example, the nail layers are made of soft, moderately hard, and hard keratin. These all come together to create the protective shield you know as your fingernails.

While the keratin cells are no longer living (which is why you can trim your fingernails and toenails), they represent formerly living cells that needed nutrients and proteins to survive.

When you consider this, it’s easy to see how deformities in the nails can indicate potential underlying problems, such as nutritional deficiencies. (More about this in the next section.)

Fingernails may be potential indicators of underlying medical conditions. In fact, doctors frequently assess fingernails to help diagnose different medical conditions.

Common nail disorders that may indicate underlying health conditions include the following:

Clubbing. Clubbing causes an extreme curve and rounding appearance to the fingernails. This could indicate low oxygen levels, including chronic lung disorders.
Concavity. Also known as koilonychia, concavity occurs when the nails bend up at the sides, making a U shape instead of a traditional C shape. This can occur in people who have a chronic iron deficiency.
Pincer. Pincer nails are very rounded, almost as if the nail side edges are trying to touch. Aging is a common cause as is taking certain medications, such as beta-blockers.
Pitting. Pitting causes multiple, shallow depressions in the nail area. This symptom can be the result of conditions such as alopecia areata or psoriasis.
Horizontal lines. The fingernails naturally have up-and-down lines. When lines appear side-to-side and have a whitish, pale tone to the nail plate, doctors call these Muehrcke’s lines. People who have low albumin levels, an essential protein that helps maintain fluid balance and transport substances in the body, may have these lines.
Black line or band. While this can be a normal variation to some people’s nails, a new, longitudinal light to dark brown band on the nail could indicate subungual melanoma. This is a type of melanoma that occurs in the fingernail and extends deeper below. It can cause additional symptoms, such as bleeding, cracking, and brittleness.

Fingernails and toenails are present in primates — including humans.

Ideally, your nails are pink at the nail beds, slightly rounded, with small, shallow vertical lines. If you have variations of this standard appearance that concern you, talk to your doctor.

Last medically reviewed on April 22, 2020

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Curiosities: Why do we have fingernails? (2007).
news.wisc.edu/curiosities-why-do-we-have-fingernails/
Farren L, et al. (2004). The fracture properties and mechanical design of human fingernails. DOI:
10.1242/jeb.00814
Johnson C, et al. (2020). Anatomy, shoulder and upper limb, nails.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534769/
Lipner SR, et al. (2016). Evaluation of nail lines: Color and shape hold clues. DOI:
10.3949/ccjm.83a.14187
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019). Fingernails: Possible problems.
mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/nails/sls-20076131?s=1
Moman RN, et al. (2020). Physiology, albumin.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459198/
Yaemsiri S, et al. (2010). Growth rate of human fingernails and toenail in healthy American young adults. DOI:
10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03426.
Yost JM. (2017). Diagnosis and management of common nail disorders.
calderm.org/system/files/evt_doc/diagnosis_and_management_of_common_nail_disorders_-_yost.pdf

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Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D.O. — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA on April 22, 2020

How to properly cut, trim fingernails and toenails.

How to trim your fingernails and toenails? No problem!

To do this, you should know some of the features of the procedure for shortening and filing the nail plates.

Nail trimming.

First, we determine the shape of the nails.

The shape of the nails on the hands can be any, but the best option is a rounded upper edge that repeats the shape of the hole, or as they are also called lunules (small, light stripes on the nail in the form of a crescent at the cuticle itself).

Handnail shortening procedure:

Treat scissors (forceps) with disinfectant. The tips of the scissors are advanced from the edge to the middle in small steps, without trying to completely cut off the entire nail plate in one movement, which prevents its delamination and the possibility of cutting off the excess. And so each nail in turn, trying not to accidentally injure the skin (which happens when using a new sharpened tool). If the skin around the nails is injured, the wound must be treated with hydrogen peroxide.
With smooth movements from the edges to the center, we process (file) the nail plate with a nail file, giving it a rounded shape. First, they take a large, and then a fine-grained grinding file.
We complete the procedure by applying a moisturizing cream or foam to the hands, and do a finger massage.

How to properly cut toenails:

Treat scissors (forceps) with disinfectant. It is necessary to shorten the plate using special straight cutters. Following a smooth arc, not much rounding the upper edge of the nail plate, we move from the edge to the middle in small steps.
After cutting, we file the upper edge of the nail plate with nail files.
In the end – apply cream or oil on the skin of the legs and nail plates, massaging movements to achieve maximum absorption of the moisturizer.

Incorrect cutting. Correct cutting. Cut in a smooth arc.

Thus , shortening the nails on your hands and feet is not a complicated procedure in caring for them, but it requires thoroughness, accuracy and knowledge of the specifics of execution. Anyone can always afford good care at home with the help of improvised means and at a ridiculous price.

Take care of your arms and legs.

Firstly , it helps to keep the nail plate healthy.

Secondly, is elementary hygiene: removal of accumulated dirt from under the nails, removal of burrs and cuticles, removal of calluses.

Manicure and pedicure help keep you healthy. Trust your health to professionals. Find your master, in whose work you will be 100% sure. A specialist will always pay attention to a possible problem and help prevent it. The price you pay for the procedure will be more than offset by the feeling of confidence in the healthy condition of your nails!

How to cut nails. Podiatrist advice.

About what are the problems with nails and feet – in our following articles:

– Ingrown nail.

– Nail fungus.

– Callus. Removal.

– Diabetic foot. Podiatrist advice.

If you see any change in the skin or nails, do not delay and contact a podiatrist. At the consultation, the specialist will notice the slightest deviations from the norm, advise the best solution and individually select a home care product for you.

You can make an appointment for a manicure or pedicure, as well as an appointment and consultation with a podologist, at the Center for Podology and Nail Aesthetics.

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say a lot about us. For example, who we work with or what we have been doing lately. But most importantly, on this basis, you can determine how much a person takes care of himself. The first step in nail care is length control. We will talk about how to cut nails correctly in this article.

Contents

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Nail structure

The nail plate consists of several main parts:

Nail structure (lunula) – a crescent-shaped area of \u200b\u200bwhite color at the very base of the nail;

root is the part of the nail that is under the skin or slightly protrudes from behind the posterior ridge;

free front edge – in its raw form it repeats the shape of the hole, this is the free part that protrudes beyond the border of the bed and it is this that we have to grow or cut;

nail folds – there are back and side, in the form of a skin fold, they limit the plate;

cuticle – the horny part of the epidermis, which lies on the nail plate at the base.

Features of growth

The length of the regrown edge is mainly determined by the genetic background of the person. The thinner the plate, the shorter its length and vice versa. But sometimes the depletion of the nail plate can be caused by acquired diseases.

The nail is a constantly renewing part of the human body, so it can always be influenced and corrected with the help of cosmetology or medicine. Irreversible processes can begin only in case of damage to the nail root.

Choice of length: when long nails need to be cut

Short nails – extending slightly beyond the finger but not over the nail bed – this is the most convenient and versatile length.

It is important to monitor the optimal length of nails and cut them off in time

She does not need special skills to handle her.
With such a manicure, it is much more convenient to attend sports training, travel, do housework, relax or just attend evening events.
Such nails will always look neat enough.
Short nails are quite difficult to scratch someone or catch on something. Therefore, this is the ideal length for new moms.

Nails that extend beyond the finger by a length of 30 mm or more are considered appropriate only for purely festive occasions, such as weddings. For everyday life, this size of the overgrown region is unacceptable.

When choosing the length of the nail, you should be guided by a sense of comfort

Long nails are considered to be nail plates that have grown from the finger to a length from 5 mm to half the size of the nail bed. This length is always successful for women: it visually lengthens the finger itself, allows you to experiment with manicure.

And even if the mistress of such a manicure has rather lush hands, they will seem longer, thinner and more elegant. For such a nail pad, the most spectacular patterns with sequins and rhinestones are used.

The only rule that any girl should be guided by when choosing the length of the free edge of the nail plate is convenience and comfort . Some women feel insecure with a short edge, while others feel the opposite. It is necessary to strive so that the length does not cause discomfort, but only brings pleasure even from one glance at your hands.

There is one unspoken law among manicure masters: short nails can be painted with the brightest varnishes, and long ones use only light colors and French manicure.

You can cut the regrown plate at any time, the main thing is that the length of the regrown edge does not exceed a few millimeters. With constant care, a haircut should be done every 1-2 weeks.

Tips for trimming nails

How to trim your fingernails

Manicure tools

Tools needed

Clean and sharp nippers or nail scissors for cutting the nail edge on the legs and arms.
Tray for steaming hands.
Cuticle cutter (forceps or scissors).
Moisturizing cream.
Nail file.

Preparing for clipping

Before clipping nails with scissors or nail clippers, wash your hands with soap and soak them in a tub of warm water for a few minutes. Next, pick up a cutting tool: nail scissors or nippers. All cutting tools that will be used in the manicure process must be disinfected.

Step-by-step instructions for cutting nails with scissors

Process for cutting nails with scissors

Hands should be placed on a hard surface in a comfortable position.
Determine how far you want to shorten the free nail edge.
Turn the scissors to the nail plate with the curved side, that is, so that the line of the edge and the tips of the scissors resemble parallel lines bent in one direction.
Cut off the regrown area in small steps, and then file with a nail file.

Peculiarities of cutting nails on the hands with a clipper

Cutting nails with a clipper

Disinfect the clipper and soak your hands in a warm water solution beforehand.
The clipper is placed at an angle of 90º relative to the nail edge so that the cut is perfectly even.
First, the regrown area is cut off in small sections, and then the necessary edge line is leveled with a nail file.

How to choose a clipper and how to cut your nails with it – look at the video:

How to properly shorten nails in hardware manicure: step-by-step instructions

We install a diamond nozzle of medium abrasiveness and treat the cuticle and skin around the entire perimeter of the nail plate.
Shape the nail with a cylindrical or trapezoidal cutter.

Leave 2 mm of plate above the fingertips.

When polishing the nail plates, it is important not to press hard with the nozzle on the nail surface and not to linger for a long time on one part of it.
We clean the plate from dust with a small brush or with oil, which we then erase. If desired, varnish.

Special cases of cutting nails

How convenient it is to cut nails with a non-working hand

Trimming nails on the right hand

To cut the nail edge on the right hand, you should make an effort, because you need to achieve the same ideal shape of the plates simultaneously on both hands. For this it is most convenient to use nipser . With small cuts we move along the edge of the nail, and then we clean the corners from the cuts with a nail file.

Those who find it unacceptable to do this procedure with their non-working hand can use special left-handed scissors.

Features of cutting nails for men

Most often, an independent manicure for every man is cutting nails with a nail clipper. If the procedure is performed by a master, then for men the shape of the extreme nail is not selected, it is created along the contour of the fingertip.

How to cut children’s nails correctly

To cut children’s nails, use special scissors with rounded edges, which are quite difficult to injure.

Cut children’s nails with special scissors

Try to negotiate with the child about cutting nails, distract him , turn on a cartoon for him, promise a reward and after the haircut be sure to praise him for good behavior.
Do it better when the baby is full and nothing disturbs him. You can cut his nails and 10-20 minutes after the bath , when the nails are completely soft and you can not miss the growing nail. The handle, which you will cut second, is recommended to be swaddled to avoid cuts when moving it.
If you can’t persuade the child, you can safely trim the nails during sleep . Wait 20-40 minutes after the child falls asleep, and proceed, at this time the baby is sleeping soundly enough and your touch will not be able to wake him up.

Care must be taken when cutting a child’s nails

Long nails are dangerous because children can scratch themselves with them and quite seriously. On the hands, the nails are cut after 5 days, on the legs – after 10.
It is better to trim children’s nails in the shape of a crescent , moving the fingertip away so as not to inadvertently injure it with scissors.

How to trim an ingrown toenail

To do this, steam your finger in warm water containing furacilin or chlorhexidine. Then wipe the leg or arm dry and apply antiseptic ointment , for example Levomekol, pry off the ingrown edge of the nail with a disinfected wooden stick or a nail file, try to straighten it , and then – file .

Next, you can cut off the entire excess edge towards the center. The nail plate “wants” to grow together and will stretch towards the center, so the skin will gradually be released. The treated area of \u200b\u200bthe nail can be smeared with brilliant green, and a piece of sterile bandage can be placed under the nail itself.