How to treat ingrown toenails: 7 steps to completely cure this condition.

Ingrown toenails (also known as ingrown toenails ) are a fairly common condition, especially on the big toe. When the edge of the nail pierces the flesh, the surrounding skin will become swollen, red, and painful , and may even become infected if not treated promptly.

This condition often makes walking difficult , causes pain when wearing shoes , or leads to recurring inflammation . However, the good news is that it's entirely possible to reduce pain and manage the condition at home if you know how to handle it correctly.

This article will provide detailed instructions on how to treat ingrown toenails at home , helping you quickly relieve pain, prevent infection, and stop the nail from growing back – from a doctor's perspective on nail care and treatment.

How to relieve pain from ingrown toenail at home

Ingrown toenails can cause pain, swelling, redness, and discomfort when walking. Here are some simple, safe ways to reduce pain and help your toenail grow in the right direction at home:

• Soak your feet in warm water: Prepare a basin of warm water (not too hot), you can add a little salt for mild disinfection. Soak your feet for about 15 minutes , 3-4 times a day to soften the skin around the nails and reduce swelling and pain.

• Gently lift the ingrown toenail: After soaking, use clean dental floss or a small cotton ball to place under the ingrown toenail to separate it from the skin. This gives the nail space to grow out and prevents it from digging into the flesh.

• Use pain relievers: If you experience significant pain, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed on the packaging.

• Keep your feet dry and clean: After each soak, dry your feet thoroughly and wear breathable shoes to prevent bacteria from entering and causing infection.

If the condition does not improve after a few days, or if the nail area shows signs of pus formation, swelling, or increased pain , you should see a dermatologist or orthopedic surgeon for proper treatment to avoid complications.

Part 1: 7 Simple and Effective Steps to Treat Ingrown Toenails at Home

Step 1: How to soak your feet to relieve pain from an ingrown toenail.

Proper foot soaking is an important step in reducing swelling and pain and promoting normal nail regrowth. Below is a detailed, easy-to-follow guide that you can do at home:

• Soak your feet in warm water: Use a large basin or small bathtub and fill it with lukewarm water (not too hot). Soak your feet for about 15 minutes , 3–4 times a day to soothe redness and reduce pain.

• Add Epsom salt to the water: Epsom salt helps reduce inflammation, swelling, and soften toenails . Mix about 3 tablespoons (75g) of Epsom salt with 2 liters of warm water .

• If Epsom salt is unavailable, use regular salt instead: Diluted saltwater can still help inhibit bacterial growth and reduce the risk of infection around the nail.

• Gently massage the area around the nail: After soaking for a few minutes, gently massage the ingrown area to help the water penetrate deeper, soften the skin, and reduce swelling and pain more effectively .

Doing this regularly every day will help reduce pain, prevent infection, and support proper nail growth .

Step 2: How to gently lift an ingrown toenail after soaking your feet

After soaking your feet, your nails will be softer and easier to handle. Doing this correctly helps prevent the nail from digging into the skin again , reduces pain, and avoids infection.

• Use dental floss or a small cotton ball: Once the nail has softened, gently thread a clean piece of dental floss or place a small cotton ball under the ingrown edge of the nail . The goal is to gently lift the edge of the nail away from the skin , helping the nail grow in the correct direction.

• Perform this after each foot soak: Each time you use dental floss or cotton, use a new floss or cotton ball ; never reuse it to avoid infection.

• Relieve pain if needed: If the nail area is still painful or sensitive, you can take common pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for relief.

• Avoid picking too deeply or cutting too much: Avoid digging too deep into the flesh around the nail or cutting the nail too close , as this can cause scratches, bleeding, and increase the risk of infection .

If you experience significant pain, swelling, or dark redness around the nail , stop self-treating and consult a doctor for safe treatment.

Step 3: Use painkillers when the toenail is ingrown.

When an ingrown toenail causes pain or swelling, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers to temporarily alleviate the symptoms:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin effectively reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation . Take them after meals and at the dosage directed on the packaging.

• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) substitute: If you cannot take an NSAID due to stomach pain, liver disease, or other contraindications, paracetamol can be used to relieve mild to moderate pain .

• Safety note:

  • Do not overdose or combine multiple pain relievers from the same group.

  • Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.

  • If the pain doesn't subside after a few days or the nail area becomes more swollen and red, you should see a doctor for a thorough examination and treatment .

Step 4: Apply topical antibiotic cream to prevent infection of the ingrown toenail.

When the skin around the toenail is red, swollen, or shows signs of mild inflammation, applying a topical antibiotic cream can help prevent infection and provide temporary pain relief .

• Choose the right antibiotic cream: You can use a broad-spectrum antibiotic cream, readily available at pharmacies, to kill bacteria and aid in wound healing .

• Prioritize products containing a mild anesthetic: Some products contain lidocaine, which helps soothe localized pain and burning sensations for a short time.

• How to use:

  • Clean and dry the nail area before applying the product.

  • Apply a sufficient amount of cream in a thin layer to the inflamed skin around the nail.

  • Apply 2–3 times daily , or as directed on the product packaging.

• Note:

  • Do not apply too much or too often , as this may cause irritation or a local skin reaction.

  • If the skin becomes itchy, burning, or develops a rash , stop using the product immediately and consult a doctor.

  • If the nail becomes swollen, pus-filled, or progressively painful , it is necessary to consult a dermatologist or trauma surgeon for prompt treatment.

Step 5: Bandage the toe to protect the ingrown toenail.

After cleaning and applying medication, properly bandaging the toe helps keep the nail area clean, dry, and prevents further friction and pain.

• Use a clean bandage or soft medical gauze: Gently wrap it around the toe , just enough to cover the affected area without tightening it.

• Helps prevent infection and friction: The bandage helps protect the nail from dirt, bacteria, and friction with shoes or socks , reducing the risk of infection spreading.

• Change the dressing daily: Keep the skin around the nail dry and clean , and change the dressing at least once a day or when it becomes damp.

• Choose breathable footwear: Avoid tight or constricting shoes; opt for open-toe sandals or soft shoes during the recovery period.

Step 6: Wear open-toed sandals or loose-fitting shoes to reduce pressure on the ingrown toenail.

Choosing the right footwear plays a crucial role in the recovery process and in preventing the recurrence of ingrown toenails.

• Prioritize breathable, spacious footwear: Choose open-toe sandals, flip-flops, or soft canvas shoes to give your toes plenty of room and prevent them from being squeezed or rubbing against the edges of your nails.

• Avoid tight or pointed shoes: Tight shoes, especially leather shoes or closed-toe high heels, can increase pressure on the nail , making ingrown toenails worse .

• Helping the nail heal naturally: When not under pressure, the skin around the nail will reduce swelling faster , and the nail can grow back in the correct direction .

• Maintain the habit of wearing appropriate shoes: Even after recovery, you should still avoid shoes that are too tight or thick socks that constrict your feet , as these are common causes of ingrown toenails .

Step 7: Try natural remedies to relieve pain from an ingrown toenail.

Some people choose herbal remedies or natural therapies (homeopathy) to reduce pain and help the nail area heal faster. While effectiveness may vary depending on individual circumstances, these are some popular options:

• Common ingredients used in homeopathy include: Several preparations containing Silicea Terra, Teucrium, Nitric Acid, Graphites, Thuja, Causticum, or Potassium Carbohydrate … are believed to help reduce inflammation, swelling, and promote skin regeneration around the nails.

• Forms of use: Available in tablet, liquid drop, or topical cream form, commonly sold at pharmacies specializing in natural remedies.

• Notes on usage:

  • Consult your doctor or pharmacist before use, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

  • Do not use as a complete substitute for antibiotics or standard medical treatment if the nail area is severely inflamed or infected.

Natural remedies can help alleviate mild symptoms , but self-treatment should be avoided if there are signs of swelling, severe pain, or widespread infection .

Part 2: How to help ingrown toenails heal faster and reduce inflammation

Step 1: Soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt to soften ingrown toenails.

Soaking your feet is the first and most important step in reducing pain, softening nails , and promoting proper nail growth .

• Prepare a basin of warm water: Use lukewarm water (not too hot) to avoid skin irritation.

• Add Epsom salt: Add about 3 tablespoons (75g) of Epsom salt to 2 liters of warm water and stir until dissolved. Epsom salt helps soften nails, reduce swelling, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties .

• Soak your feet for 15 minutes: Keep your feet in water for about 15 minutes at a time , 2–3 times a day , to soften the skin around your nails and make it easier to separate the nails from the skin.

• Effectiveness: After soaking, the nail will be softer and less painful , making it easier to treat ingrown nails without causing further damage.

Step 2: Gently lift the ingrown toenail away from the skin.

After soaking your feet, the nails are softer and easier to handle. Gently lifting the edge of the nail helps prevent it from digging into the flesh , reducing pain and promoting proper growth.

• Gently pull the skin around the nail: Using clean hands , gently separate the skin near the edge of the nail to clearly see the ingrown nail.

• Threading dental floss or a fine tool: Use clean dental floss or a small, pointed nail file to lift the edge of the nail away from the skin .

  • You should start with the uningrown nail and then gradually move towards the ingrown nail to avoid causing injury.

• Sterilize instruments before use: Before performing any procedure, clean the instruments with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide solution to prevent infection .

• Use gentle movements: Avoid pulling or poking deeply into the skin — this can cause abrasions, bleeding, and worsen inflammation.

If you experience sharp pain, bleeding, or pus formation in your nail , stop immediately and see a doctor for safe treatment.

Step 3: Disinfect the ingrown toenail area after the toenail lift.

After gently separating the nail from the skin, the sterilization step is extremely important to prevent bacteria from entering and avoid infection .

• Use a mild antiseptic solution: You can choose rubbing alcohol , hydrogen peroxide , or saline solution to clean the area.

• How to do it:

  • Apply a small amount of antiseptic solution to the gap between the nail and the lifted skin .

  • To allow the solution to spread evenly and drain out naturally, there is no need to rub vigorously .

• Effectiveness: This step helps remove dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells , while reducing the risk of infection after nail procedures .

• Note:

  • A slight stinging sensation is normal, but if the burning or redness increases , discontinue use and rinse with clean water .

  • Always keep the nail area clean, dry, and well-ventilated after disinfecting.

Step 4: Place a clean gauze pad under the edge of the nail to prevent the nail from digging into the skin.

After gently lifting the ingrown nail, you can place a clean gauze pad to prevent the nail from digging back into the flesh—this helps the nail grow in the right direction and significantly reduces pain .

• Prepare a clean gauze pad: Cut a small piece the size of a cotton swab tip , using sterile medical gauze or sterile cotton .

• How to apply the dressing:

  • Using clean tweezers or a cotton swab , gently push the gauze pad into the gap between the nail and the skin , right at the ingrown edge of the nail.

  • The goal is to create a small gap between the nail and the skin , allowing the nail to grow outward instead of continuing to grow downward.

• Maintain hygiene:

  • Change the gauze daily or after each foot soak .

  • Each time you change the dressing, clean the nail area with a mild antiseptic solution before applying a new dressing.

• Note:

  • Do not insert the gauze too deeply or too tightly to avoid causing pain, abrasions, or suffocation.

  • If the nail area shows signs of swelling, increased pain, or discharge , stop what you are doing and see a doctor for medical attention .

Step 5: Apply antibiotic cream around the nail area after placing the gauze.

After placing gauze under the nail edge, applying topical antibiotic cream helps prevent infection and effectively soothes pain and burning sensations .

• Choose the right cream: Use a broad-spectrum antibiotic cream available at pharmacies; you can choose one containing lidocaine for temporary pain relief .

• How to apply:

  • Use a clean cotton swab to apply a small amount of cream.

  • Gently apply around the affected nail and skin area , avoiding direct application to the dressing to prevent excessive wetting.

• Effects: Helps kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and soothe pain around the ingrown toenail, while also supporting skin healing.

• Note:

  • Apply 2–3 times daily or as directed on the product.

  • If you experience any signs of irritation, itching, burning, or rash , discontinue use and consult a doctor .

Step 6: Bandage the toe to protect the ingrown toenail.

After applying medication, properly bandaging the toe helps maintain hygiene, prevent injury, and support faster healing.

• Using a clean gauze pad or bandage: Wrap a thin layer of gauze around the toe , making sure it fits snugly but not too tightly to avoid restricting blood flow.

• Choose the appropriate type of tape:

  • You can use a regular medical bandage , or

  • Specialized toe socks – these are socks that cover each toe individually, helping to prevent friction between the toes and keep the injured area dry and ventilated.

• Maintain hygiene: Change the bandage daily or when it becomes damp , ensuring your toe stays dry and clean to limit bacterial growth.

• Note: When wearing shoes, choose loose, soft, breathable shoes to reduce pressure on the healing nail area .

Step 7: Repeat the care process daily to allow the toenail to fully recover.

To help ingrown toenails heal quickly and grow in the right direction, a regular daily care routine is necessary:

• Follow these steps every day:

  • Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt.

  • Gently lift the edge of the nail and place a clean gauze pad underneath.

  • Apply antibiotic cream around the nail area.

  • Cover the toe with clean gauze or medical tape.

• Change the dressing daily: This helps keep the skin around the nail dry, clean, and free from bacterial infection .

• Monitor progress: As the nail begins to grow out, the pain and swelling will gradually decrease . Continue care until the nail grows steadily and no longer digs into the skin.

• Note: If the condition does not improve after a few days, the pain increases, or there are signs of pus formation , consult a doctor for prompt medical attention .

Part 3: When should you see a doctor for treatment of an ingrown toenail?

Step 1: When should you see a doctor if your ingrown toenail doesn't improve?

If your toenail condition doesn't improve after a few days of self-care, you need to see a doctor to avoid serious complications.

• Seek medical attention after 2–3 days if there is no improvement: If you have applied foot soaks, ointments, and changed dressings correctly and still experience pain, swelling, or inflammation , go to a medical facility for safe treatment by a doctor.

• People with underlying conditions should seek medical attention early: If you have diabetes, vascular disease, or peripheral nerve damage , see a doctor immediately if you notice an ingrown toenail, as even small wounds can quickly become infected and difficult to heal .

• Signs of a serious infection:

  • A red streak appears running from the toes up the foot .

  • There is pus or yellowish fluid around the nail .

  • The nail area may be painful, burning, or swollen .
    If you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately to prevent the infection from spreading deeper into the tissue or bone.

• Recommendation: It is advisable to consult a dermatologist or podiatrist for proper treatment and guidance on how to care for the affected area and prevent recurrence.

Step 2: Discuss your ingrown toenail symptoms clearly with your doctor.

When you come for a check-up, providing a detailed description of your condition helps the doctor accurately assess the severity of the inflammation and choose the appropriate course of treatment .

• Provide a full account of the condition: Clearly tell your doctor when the nail started to curl, and when swelling, redness, or pain appeared . These details will help determine whether the inflammation is mild or if there is a risk of a deeper infection .

• Also mention systemic symptoms: If you have a fever, chills, or pain radiating up your feet , you should immediately inform your doctor , as these could be signs of a spreading infection .

• Initial treatment by a doctor: Typically, a general practitioner can handle mild to moderate cases of ingrown toenails , including cleaning, trimming, or prescribing antibiotics if needed.

• In severe or recurrent cases: It is recommended to see a podiatrist for more specialized treatment , such as lifting, reshaping, or partial removal of the nail to prevent recurrence.

Step 3: Use antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor if your toenail is infected.

When an ingrown toenail shows signs of inflammation or infection, proper antibiotic use as directed by a doctor is crucial to avoid complications.

• The doctor will prescribe appropriate antibiotics: Depending on the severity of the inflammation, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics (taken directly) or topical antibiotics to kill bacteria and control infection around the nail .

• The purpose of using antibiotics:

  • Helps eliminate bacteria that cause inflammation in the skin around the nails.

  • It prevents new bacteria from entering , helping skin tissue recover faster.

• Notes on usage:

  • Take the correct dose at the correct time as prescribed by your doctor, and do not stop taking the medication on your own even if your symptoms have subsided.

  • Do not use antibiotics without a doctor's examination and diagnosis of a real infection , to avoid antibiotic resistance.

  • If you experience any allergic reactions such as itching, rash, or nausea , stop taking the medication and inform your doctor immediately .

Step 4: The doctor may gently lift the toenail to reduce the ingrown toenail.

When treating nails, doctors usually prioritize the least invasive method to help the nail recover naturally without surgical intervention:

• Gently lift the ingrown nail: The doctor will use specialized instruments to gently separate the edge of the nail from the compressed skin , helping to reduce pain and limit the spread of inflammation.

• Placing gauze or cotton under the nail: After the lift, the doctor will insert a thin, clean piece of gauze or cotton into the gap between the nail and the skin to prevent the nail from further growing into the flesh and to allow it to grow in the correct direction.

• Home care instructions:

  • The doctor will provide specific instructions on how to change the dressing daily , helping to keep the injured area dry, clean, and free from bacteria.

  • Never attempt to lift or insert cotton swabs into your nails at home without proper guidance, as this can easily lead to scratches or more serious infections.

Step 5: Discuss with your doctor the possibility of removing part of the ingrown toenail.

In cases of severe toenail inflammation, widespread infection, or infection that has penetrated deep into the flesh , a doctor may recommend removing part of the nail to eliminate the cause of pain and help the nail grow back in the correct direction.

• The procedure is performed under local anesthesia: Before proceeding, the doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the toe area so that you will feel absolutely no pain throughout the process.

• Removing the misaligned nail: The doctor will make an incision along the edge of the nail and remove the part that is growing into the skin , helping to reduce pressure, inflammation, and remove damaged tissue.

• Recovery time:

  • Toenails will usually grow back after about 2–4 months, depending on individual factors.

  • In most cases, the new nail shape will be more aesthetically pleasing and even than before the surgery, as it will no longer be inverted or swollen and painful.

• Benefits of trimming part of the nail:

  • Helps provide immediate pain relief after the procedure.

  • Prevent the recurrence of ingrown toenails , especially for those who experience it repeatedly.

Step 6: Learn about methods for permanently removing the recurrent ingrown toenail.

If you experience recurring ingrown toenails, swelling, or pain , your doctor may recommend surgery to permanently remove the ingrown part of the nail to end the condition long-term.

• Treatment principle: The doctor will remove a portion of the nail along with the underlying nail bed to prevent the nail from growing back in that area .

• Method of implementation:

  • This can be done using lasers , special chemicals , electrical currents , or microsurgical procedures .

  • All procedures are outpatient (no hospitalization required), administered under local anesthesia , and therefore virtually painless .

• Benefits of the method:

  • Completely resolve the problem of recurring ingrown toenails.

  • Reduces swelling, pain, and long-term inflammation , making daily activities and mobility easier.

  • The natural, aesthetically pleasing shape of the nail is preserved because the dentist only removes a small portion of the nail, not the entire nail.

• Recovery time: Usually 2–3 weeks , depending on individual factors and post-procedure care.

Part 4: How to effectively prevent ingrown toenails every day

Step 1: Trim your toenails properly to prevent ingrown toenails.

Most cases of ingrown toenails stem from improper nail trimming techniques . Proper nail trimming not only helps nails grow straight but also prevents recurring inflammation, swelling, and pain .

• Trim toenails in a straight line:

  • Use specialized and thoroughly sterilized nail clippers .

  • Cut the nail straight across , without rounding the corners , to prevent the nail edge from growing into the flesh when it grows back.

• Don't cut it too short:

  • Trim your nails to a moderate length, leaving a small portion protruding from the tip of your toe .

  • If you cut too close, the skin at the edge of the nail will swell and press against the nail , making it easier for the nail to grow back when new hair grows .

• Keep the equipment and your feet clean:

  • Wash and dry your feet thoroughly before trimming your nails.

  • Sterilize nail clippers or scissors with alcohol or boiling water to prevent bacterial contamination .

• Tip: If you often have ingrown toenails, you can let your nails grow a little longer , allowing the edges to grow outward instead of digging into the skin.

Step 2: Go to a podiatrist if you are unable to cut your nails yourself.

For those who have difficulty cutting their own toenails —such as the elderly, pregnant women, obese individuals, or those with joint or back problems— visiting a foot care clinic is a safe and effective option.

• Professional nail cutting and care services:

  • Professional technicians or doctors will cut, file, and clean nails according to medical standards , avoiding scratches or damage to the skin around the nails.

  • They can also detect early signs of ingrown toenails, fungal infections, or dermatitis so that they can be treated promptly.

• Reputable location:

  • You can contact a hospital, medical center, or foot care clinic near your home.

  • It is advisable to choose a licensed facility with medical staff providing guidance and using sterile equipment .

• Benefit:

  • Helps maintain healthy nails and reduces recurring inflammation.

  • It saves time and reduces the risk of self-harm to the nails , especially for people with underlying conditions such as diabetes or circulatory disorders .

Step 3: Avoid wearing tight shoes to prevent ingrown toenails.

Wearing shoes that are too tight or constricting the toes is a common cause of ingrown toenails , leading to pain and inflammation.

• Tight shoes press down on the toes:

  • When shoes are too tight, the sides of the shoe constantly press against the edge of the nail , causing the nail to bend, grow crooked, and eventually dig into the flesh over time.

  • This pressure also makes nails more prone to swelling, inflammation, and infection , especially if you wear shoes all day.

• How to choose the right shoes:

  • Prioritize shoes with wide, airy toes , allowing your toes ample space.

  • Avoid high heels or pointed-toe shoes if you frequently suffer from ingrown toenails.

  • For athletic shoes, choose the right size and ensure they have soft cushioning at the toes .

• Habits to be aware of:

  • Replace shoes when they become too tight or deformed , especially for children and people who are very active.

  • Go barefoot at home or wear open-toed slippers to allow your toes to rest and breathe.

Step 4: Protect your feet when working or engaging in strenuous activity.

In environments or activities where there is a risk of impact, crushing, or injury to the toes , wearing appropriate protective footwear is extremely important to prevent ingrown toenails and damage to the soft tissue surrounding the nail .

• Always wear safety shoes when working:

  • If you work in construction, mechanics, factories, or warehouses , you should wear steel-toed shoes to protect your toes from falling objects .

  • For jobs involving a lot of movement or a risk of slipping and falling, choose shoes with non-slip soles and good grip .

• When playing sports:

  • Wearing well-fitting, comfortable, and breathable athletic shoes helps reduce pressure on the toenails when running, jumping, or stopping suddenly.

  • Avoid wearing shoes that are too stiff or tight , as this can easily cause the nails to be bumped and grow crooked .

• Keep your feet dry and clean.

  • After work or exercise, wash and dry your feet thoroughly , avoiding moisture as it can easily cause inflammation around the nails.

Step 5: People with diabetes should seek assistance when caring for their toenails.

If you have diabetes or peripheral neuropathy , cutting your toenails yourself can be risky , as sensation in your feet is often reduced, leading to small but slow-healing wounds or serious infections .

• You should not cut your toenails yourself.

  • People with diabetes often don't feel when they get a scratch or a minor cut .

  • These small wounds can become infected, ulcerate, or become gangrenous if not treated promptly .

• Get your nails done by a professional:

  • It's best to go to a foot care clinic or podiatrist for safe nail trimming, cleaning, and monitoring of the skin around the nail .

  • If you can't get to a medical facility, ask a family member with experience and the skill to carefully trim your nails.

• Regular monitoring:

  • People with diabetes should have their feet checked every 3–6 months so that a doctor can monitor blood circulation, nerve sensation, and nail condition .

  • Early detection of signs such as swelling, discoloration, and redness around the nail is crucial for timely treatment.

Part 5: Recognizing the signs of an ingrown toenail and how to treat it early.

Symptom 1: Check if your toe is swollen.

One of the earliest signs of an ingrown toenail is slight swelling around the edge of the nail . Careful observation helps you detect it early and treat it promptly before inflammation worsens .

• Compare the two legs:

  • Look closely at the suspected toe and compare it to the toe in the same position on the other foot .

  • If you notice swelling, redness, or a slight firmness to the touch , it could be a sign of a nail piercing the skin .

• Initial mild swelling characteristics:

  • The skin around the edge of the nail is slightly raised, soft, or painful when pressed gently .

  • You may feel warmth in the skin around the nail , signaling that an inflammatory response is beginning.

• Note:

  • If the swelling spreads, becomes painful, or discharges fluid or pus , these are signs of infection —you need to see a doctor soon to avoid complications.

  • Do not attempt to cut or squeeze the swollen area , as this may cause bacteria to penetrate deeper.

Sign 2: Check for pain or sensitivity around the toenail.

When a toenail is ingrown, the skin around the nail is often sensitive, painful, or slightly red and swollen . Checking the sensation helps you pinpoint the exact location of the ingrown nail and the extent of inflammation .

• Identify the painful area:

  • Use your finger to gently press around the edge of the nail to see which area is more painful or sore.

  • If even a light touch causes a sharp or stinging sensation , it's very likely that the edge of the nail is digging into the skin at that spot.

• Carefully observe the affected skin area:

  • The skin around the nails may be red, swollen, or shiny , indicating inflammation.

  • If you see pale yellow discharge or white pus , this is a sign of infection . Clean the area and seek medical attention promptly . Do not attempt to cut the nail too deeply , as this can worsen the condition.

• Never cut or pull out your own nails:

  • "Self-treatment" using pliers, nail clippers, or picking at the inflamed area can tear the skin, introducing bacteria deeper into the wound .

  • Instead, soak your feet in warm water with salt or Epsom salt , and see a doctor or podiatrist if the pain doesn't subside.

Sign 3: Observe the position of the toenail to identify an ingrown toenail.

A characteristic sign of an ingrown toenail is that the edge of the skin next to the nail covers or obscures the corner of the nail , making the nail edge less visible than usual .

• Skin covering the edge of the nail:

  • When a nail is ingrown, the skin on the side of the nail swells and protrudes , making it look like the skin is "swallowing" the nail .

  • At this stage, the tip of the nail may be completely hidden under the skin , causing sharp pain when touched or when wearing closed-toe shoes .

• Nails growing inwards:

  • In some cases, the nail grows in the wrong direction , growing into the skin instead of straight out , causing the area to become swollen, red, hard, and possibly oozing fluid .

• A clearer way to identify them:

  • Observe both edges of the nail : if one side doesn't show the nail corner or the skin is visible , it's highly likely that the nail is growing inward .

  • If you cannot identify the edge of the nail or the nail is deeply embedded , do not attempt to pry or cut it yourself , but consult a doctor or podiatrist for safe treatment.

Sign 4: Consider your health condition before self-treating an ingrown toenail.

Although most cases of ingrown toenails can be treated at home , if you have an underlying condition affecting circulation or nerves , self-treatment can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.

• Do not self-treat if you have diabetes or nerve damage.

  • People with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or reduced sensation in their feet may not notice minor injuries or infections .

  • In these cases, wounds on the feet are prone to ulceration, necrosis, and slow healing , especially when the nail is deeply embedded in the skin.

• Poor circulation in the legs is also a risk factor:

  • If you have poor blood circulation or peripheral vascular disease , your doctor needs to check for ingrown toenails as soon as possible to avoid serious complications.

• When should you see a doctor immediately?

  • There may be widespread redness and swelling, increasing pain, or pus discharge .

  • Numbness, cold feet, or nails that don't heal after a few days of self-care .

• Safe solution:

  • Schedule an appointment with a doctor or podiatrist as soon as you notice any suspicious signs.

  • Absolutely do not cut your nails, pick at your skin, or use over-the-counter antibiotics if you have any of the above underlying conditions.

Sign 5: Consult a doctor if you suspect ingrown toenails.

If you 're unsure whether you have an ingrown toenail , the safest course of action is to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• The doctor helps determine the cause and severity:

  • During the examination, the doctor will check the shape of the nail, the skin around the nail, and the degree of swelling and inflammation .

  • Based on this, the doctor will be able to accurately diagnose whether it is an ingrown toenail or simply paronychia (inflammation of the skin around the nail) due to another cause.

• Get appropriate treatment guidance:

  • If the condition is mild, the doctor may advise you to soak your feet, lift the nails, or use anti-inflammatory creams at home .

  • If the nail is deeply embedded, swollen, or causes persistent pain , your doctor will recommend medical intervention or referral to a specialist .

• When should you see a podiatrist?

  • If ingrown toenails recur frequently or have caused deformity of the tissue surrounding the nail , your general practitioner may refer you to a foot specialist for thorough treatment.

Sign 6: Don't let ingrown toenails get worse.

If you suspect an ingrown toenail , treat it promptly at home to avoid more serious infection:

• Start treatment as soon as it is detected:

  • Soak your feet in warm water mixed with Epsom salt to reduce swelling and soften nails.

  • Keep your feet clean, dry, and avoid wearing tight shoes.

• Don't be complacent when you see signs of inflammation:

  • If you notice swelling, redness, pain, or pus formation , these are signs of infection and you should see a doctor as soon as possible .

  • In particular, people with diabetes or vascular disease should absolutely not attempt to treat themselves at home.

• See a doctor if there is no improvement after 2–3 days:

  • When home care measures do not help relieve pain or reduce swelling , seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References

1. https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/49/10/1541/297363
2. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001237.htm
3. https://homeopathycenter.org/what-is-homeopathy/
4. https://hpathy.com/cause-symptoms-treatment/ingrown-toenail/2/
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-toenails/basics/treatment/con-20019655
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472971/
7. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2002/0615/p2557.html
8. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/podiatrist-facts
9. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-toenails/basics/preparing-for-your-appointment/con-20019655
10. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-toenails/basics/treatment/con-20019655
11. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001237.htm
12. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00154

Translated by: Rene Lee Nguyen .