How can you alleviate the pain of ingrown toenails. What are the most effective home remedies for treating ingrown toenails. When should you seek medical attention for an ingrown toenail. What preventive measures can you take to avoid ingrown toenails in the future.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevalence

Ingrown toenails are a common foot ailment that affects approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. This condition occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. The big toe is most frequently affected, but any toe can develop this problem.

Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails:

• Toenail trauma (e.g., stubbing your toe)
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Improper toenail trimming techniques
• Poor foot hygiene
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Certain medications, such as epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

Can ingrown toenails lead to complications if left untreated? Yes, untreated ingrown toenails can potentially lead to infections and more severe complications. Therefore, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and implement appropriate treatment measures.

Warm Water Soaks: A Soothing Home Remedy for Ingrown Toenails

One of the most effective and accessible home remedies for ingrown toenails is warm water soaks. This simple treatment can help reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and promote healing.

How to Perform a Warm Water Soak

1. Fill a basin with warm water
2. Add a mild soap, such as Castile soap
3. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes
4. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily

Is there a way to enhance the effectiveness of warm water soaks? Yes, adding Epsom salts to the water can provide additional relief and promote faster healing. The magnesium sulfate in Epsom salts helps reduce inflammation and draws out toxins from the affected area.

Apple Cider Vinegar: A Natural Antiseptic for Ingrown Toenails

Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various ailments, including ingrown toenails. While scientific evidence is limited, many people report positive results when using this treatment.

Apple Cider Vinegar Soak Recipe

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• Warm water

Mix the apple cider vinegar with warm water in a basin. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. After soaking, ensure you dry your foot thoroughly to prevent fungal growth.

How does apple cider vinegar help with ingrown toenails? Apple cider vinegar is believed to possess antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. These qualities may help reduce the risk of infection and alleviate discomfort associated with ingrown toenails.

The Cotton Method: A Controversial Technique for Promoting Proper Nail Growth

Some experts recommend using small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss to encourage proper nail growth in cases of ingrown toenails. This method involves gently tucking the material under the edge of the affected nail.

However, it’s important to note that not all medical professionals agree on the effectiveness and safety of this technique. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons warns that placing cotton under the nail may increase pain and create an environment conducive to harmful bacteria.

If you choose to try this method, consider soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Always consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any new treatment for ingrown toenails.

Over-the-Counter Antiseptic Ointments: Promoting Healing and Preventing Infection

Applying over-the-counter antiseptic ointments or creams can be an effective way to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection in ingrown toenails. These products typically contain active ingredients that help combat bacteria and support the healing process.

Recommended Antiseptic Ointments for Ingrown Toenails

• Neomycin (Neosporin)
• Bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• Mupirocin (Bactroban)

How should you apply antiseptic ointments to ingrown toenails? Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which typically recommend applying the ointment to the affected area up to three times daily. After application, be sure to cover the toenail with a bandage to keep the ointment in place and protect the area from further irritation.

Proper Footwear: A Key Factor in Preventing and Managing Ingrown Toenails

Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for both preventing and managing ingrown toenails. Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes, increasing the risk of developing this painful condition.

Tips for Choosing Proper Footwear

• Opt for shoes with a wide toe box
• Ensure there’s ample space between your longest toe and the shoe’s tip
• Choose breathable materials to reduce moisture buildup
• Wear moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry

During the healing process, it’s advisable to avoid closed-toe shoes as much as possible. Opt for open-toed sandals or go barefoot when appropriate to minimize pressure on the affected toenail.

How can you determine if your shoes fit properly? A good rule of thumb is to ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This allows for natural foot movement and reduces the risk of ingrown toenails.

Pain Relief: Over-the-Counter Medications for Ingrown Toenail Discomfort

Over-the-counter pain medications can provide relief from the discomfort associated with ingrown toenails. Two common options are acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil).

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Acetaminophen is effective for pain relief but does not address inflammation. The recommended dosage for adults is typically 325-650 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 3,000 mg in 24 hours.

Ibuprofen (Advil)

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves both pain and inflammation. The standard adult dose is 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 1,200 mg in 24 hours unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Which pain reliever is best for ingrown toenails? If swelling is present, ibuprofen may be the better choice due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, individual responses to medications can vary, so it’s essential to choose the option that works best for you and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Toe Protectors and Braces: Cushioning and Support for Ingrown Toenails

Toe protectors and braces can provide valuable support and protection for toes affected by ingrown nails. These devices create a barrier between the nail and surrounding skin, reducing pain and promoting proper nail growth.

Types of Toe Protectors

• Ring-style protectors that fit around the affected area
• Full-toe covers that encase the entire toe
• Medicated gel protectors (e.g., Dr. Scholl’s) that help soften toenails for easier trimming

Toe Braces

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin as the new nail grows. They can be effective for both treating and preventing ingrown toenails.

How long should you use toe protectors or braces? Continue using these devices as directed until the ingrown toenail has fully healed and normal nail growth has resumed. This process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the condition.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Signs of Infection

While many cases of ingrown toenails can be successfully treated at home, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of infection and seek help promptly to prevent complications.

Signs of Infection in Ingrown Toenails

• Increased pain and swelling
• Redness extending beyond the immediate area of the nail
• Warmth or throbbing sensation in the affected toe
• Pus or discharge from the nail or surrounding skin
• Fever or chills

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They may prescribe oral antibiotics to combat the infection and provide additional treatment options if necessary.

Can ingrown toenails lead to serious complications if left untreated? Yes, in rare cases, untreated ingrown toenails can lead to more severe complications such as cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection) or even bone infections. This is particularly concerning for individuals with compromised immune systems or conditions like diabetes that affect circulation and wound healing.

Preventive Measures: Maintaining Healthy Toenails and Avoiding Ingrown Nails

Taking proactive steps to maintain healthy toenails can significantly reduce your risk of developing ingrown nails. By incorporating these preventive measures into your foot care routine, you can keep your toes comfortable and pain-free.

Tips for Preventing Ingrown Toenails

1. Trim toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges
2. Keep nails at a moderate length, neither too short nor too long
3. Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
4. Use protective footwear in high-risk environments (e.g., construction sites)
5. Practice good foot hygiene, including regular washing and thorough drying
6. Manage excessive foot sweating with antiperspirants or moisture-wicking socks
7. Address any underlying foot conditions, such as bunions or hammertoes

How often should you trim your toenails to prevent ingrown nails? As a general rule, aim to trim your toenails every 6-8 weeks, or when they become long enough to extend beyond the tip of your toe. However, individual growth rates may vary, so adjust your trimming schedule as needed to maintain an appropriate nail length.

Advanced Treatment Options: When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough

In some cases, ingrown toenails may not respond to home remedies or may be too severe for self-treatment. When this occurs, several advanced treatment options are available through healthcare professionals.

Partial Nail Avulsion

This procedure involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia. The nail matrix may also be treated with a chemical or laser to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail edge.

Complete Nail Avulsion

In recurring or severe cases, the entire nail may be removed. This is typically a last resort when other treatments have failed.

Nail Splinting

A healthcare provider may use a special splint to separate the nail from the surrounding skin, encouraging proper growth. This technique can be particularly effective for mild to moderate cases.

What is the recovery time for professional ingrown toenail treatments? Recovery times can vary depending on the procedure and individual healing rates. Partial nail avulsions typically heal within a few weeks, while complete nail removal may take several months for the nail to fully regrow. Your healthcare provider will give you specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of recurrence.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ingrown toenails, you can take proactive steps to maintain healthy feet and address any issues that arise promptly. Remember that while many cases can be managed at home, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the severity of your condition or if you experience signs of infection. With proper care and attention, you can keep your toes comfortable and pain-free, allowing you to enjoy your daily activities without the burden of ingrown toenails.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.