How to Cut an Ingrown Toenail

How To Cut an Ingrown Toenail

What Is an Ingrown Toenail and Why It Happens

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail pushes into or begins growing into the surrounding skin. This often causes discomfort, swelling, redness, and in some cases, infection if left untreated.

Why toenails become ingrown:

• Trimming your toenails incorrectly, such as cutting them too short or curving the edges instead of keeping them straight
• Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow, which squeeze the toes and put extra pressure on the nails
• Injuries to the toe, like stubbing it or repeated impact from activities such as sports

Recognizing the early signs of ingrown toenails, like tenderness along the nail edge or slight redness, is crucial. Early intervention and proper nail trimming can prevent the condition from worsening.

Is It Safe to Cut an Ingrown Toenail Yourself?

When It’s Safe to Cut an Ingrown Toenail

In mild cases where there’s no sign of infection, swelling, or severe pain, self-treatment may be safe. If your symptoms are manageable and caught early, gentle home care can bring relief.

However, if the ingrown nail recurs frequently or symptoms worsen, it’s essential to know when to consult a podiatrist for ingrown toenails.

Potential Risks

Trying to cut an ingrown toenail at home can sometimes do more harm than good. There’s a risk of cutting too deeply, which can cause infection or make the condition worse. Additionally, home treatments might miss underlying causes like nail deformities, leading to continued problems.

It’s also important to note that if you have other underlying conditions, such as diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system, you should not attempt to treat an ingrown toenail at home. Seek professional care to prevent any further complications.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Safely Cutting an Ingrown Toenail

If you’re dealing with a mild ingrown toenail, follow these steps carefully:

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, have these tools for cutting an ingrown toenail ready:

• Clean, sharp nail clippers or nail scissors
• Antiseptic solution
• Small cotton ball or dental floss
• Bowl of warm, soapy water
• Clean towel

Soak Your Foot

Soak your foot for 15-20 minutes in warm, soapy water. This softens the nail and skin, making the process easier and less painful.

Trim the Nail Straight Across

Carefully ease the edge of the nail away from the skin by placing a clean piece of cotton or dental floss underneath it. Trim the nail straight across — avoid cutting into the corners, as this can lead to further issues. (Keywords: how to trim an ingrown toenail straight, lifting ingrown toenail corner)

Clean and Apply Antiseptic

Once you’ve finished trimming, apply an antiseptic to the area to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

Apply Cotton or Dental Floss

Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail edge to keep it lifted away from the skin as it grows.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails in the Future

Proper Nail Trimming Techniques

• Always trim toenails straight across.
• Avoid rounding the corners or cutting nails too short.

Wear the Right Footwear

Choose footwear that gives your toes plenty of room to move comfortably without being cramped. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that could squeeze your toes together.

Foot Hygiene

Maintain clean, dry feet to reduce the risk of infection and promote healthy nail growth.

Regular Foot Care

If you frequently experience ingrown toenails, regular visits to a podiatrist can help prevent recurrence.

When to Seek Professional Treatment for an Ingrown Toenail

Consider seeing a podiatrist if:

• You experience severe pain, swelling, or pus, as these may signal an infection.
• The ingrown toenail happens repeatedly.
• You have underlying conditions, such as diabetes, which increase your risk of complications.

Treatment Options at Silver Spring Foot and Ankle

At Silver Spring Foot and Ankle, our specialists offer expert care for ingrown toenails.

Podiatric Evaluation

Our specialists will carefully evaluate how serious the ingrown toenail is and look for any hidden factors contributing to the problem.

Long-Term Care and Prevention

We create personalized care plans to help prevent the condition from worsening or returning.

Need Help with an Ingrown Toenail? Contact Silver Spring Foot and Ankle Today!

Proper ingrown toenail care can relieve pain and prevent complications. If you’re unsure, seeking advice from a podiatrist is the safest choice.

Contact Silver Spring Foot and Ankle today at (717) 237-9000 or schedule an appointment online here to get the relief you need!