Ingrown toenails can be incredibly painful and bothersome. This condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infection and further complications. However, you can take several remedies to alleviate the pain and get rid of ingrown toenails. This article will explore 12 effective remedies to get rid of ingrown toenails.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Here are the symptoms commonly associated with ingrown toenails:
- Pain and Tenderness: The affected toe will be painful and tender to the touch. Even slight pressure on the area can cause discomfort.
- Redness and Swelling: The skin around the ingrown toenail may become red and swollen. In some cases, the area might also feel warm to the touch.
- Inflammation: Ingrown toenails can cause inflammation in the surrounding skin, leading to a raised and tender area.
- Skin Overgrowth: As the toenail grows into the skin, the body may react by producing excess skin, resulting in a small, fleshy bulge over the nail border.
- Pus or Drainage: In severe cases, an ingrown toenail may lead to an infection. The area may produce pus or drainage, and there might be an unpleasant odor.
- Difficulty Walking: The pain and discomfort caused by an ingrown toenail can make it difficult to walk comfortably, especially when wearing tight-fitting shoes.
- Bleeding: If the toenail punctures the skin, it can cause bleeding in the affected area.
- Recurring Pain: Ingrown toenails can become a chronic issue, with periods of pain and discomfort recurring if not properly treated.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Here are some common causes:
- Improper nail trimming: Trimming your toenails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.
- Tight or ill-fitting footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow can pressure the toes, pushing the nails into the skin and causing them to become ingrown.
- Trauma or injury: Stubbing your toe or dropping heavy objects on it can cause injury to the nail, leading to an ingrown toenail.
- Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop ingrown toenails.
- Excessive sweating: Excessive sweating of the feet, known as hyperhidrosis, can soften the skin around the nails. And this makes it easier for the nails to penetrate the skin.
- Poor foot hygiene: Neglecting proper foot hygiene, such as not keeping the feet clean and dry, can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Structural abnormalities: Certain foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, can affect the alignment of the toes and increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
12 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Ingrown Toenails
1. Soak Your Feet in Warm Water
Soaking your feet in warm water is an effective way to soften the skin around the ingrown toenail, making it easier to lift the nail and reduce pain and inflammation gently. The warm water also helps improve blood circulation, promoting healing.
- Fill a basin or foot tub with warm water.
- Add a tablespoon of Epsom salt to the water and stir until dissolved.
- Place your feet in the warm water and soak them for 15-20 minutes.
- Gently massage the affected area to relieve discomfort further.
- Pat your feet dry with a soft towel.
- Repeat this remedy twice daily for optimal results.
2. Apply Epsom Salt
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails. It also aids in drawing out any infection present in the affected area.
- Fill a basin or foot tub with warm water.
- Add two tablespoons of Epsom salt to the water and stir until dissolved.
- Soak your feet in the solution for 15 minutes.
- Gently pat your feet dry with a towel.
- Repeat this process daily until the symptoms improve.
3. Use Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent infection and reduce swelling and redness. It also soothes the skin and promotes faster healing.
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Dip a cotton ball in the diluted tea tree oil mixture.
- Apply the cotton ball to the ingrown toenail, ensuring the affected area is covered.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate the skin.
- Rinse the area with warm water and pat it dry.
- Repeat this process twice daily until the condition improves.
4. Apply Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It also balances the pH level of the skin, promoting healing.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Dip a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar.
- Apply the cotton ball directly to the ingrown toenail.
- Secure it with a bandage or tape and leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
- Remove the cotton ball and rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat this remedy daily until the symptoms subside.
5. Utilize Essential Oils
Essential oils like lavender and peppermint have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, relieving pain and reducing swelling and redness.
- Dilute a few drops of essential oil (lavender or peppermint) in a carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Apply a small amount of the diluted essential oil mixture to the ingrown toenail.
- Gently massage the oil into the skin using circular motions.
- Leave it on for at least 30 minutes to allow absorption.
- Repeat this process as needed for pain relief.
6. Apply Turmeric Paste
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with ingrown toenails, promoting healing.
- Mix turmeric powder with water to create a thick paste.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Apply the turmeric paste directly to the ingrown toenail.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes to allow the curcumin to work.
- Rinse the area with warm water and pat it dry.
- Repeat this process twice daily until the condition improves.
7. Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide acts as an antiseptic, effectively killing bacteria and preventing infection. It also helps clean the affected area and reduce inflammation.
- Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a small bowl.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Soak a cotton ball in the hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Apply the soaked cotton ball to the ingrown toenail.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the area with warm water and pat it dry.
- Repeat this remedy once daily until the symptoms subside.
8. Apply Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, relieving pain and reducing redness and swelling. It also aids in the healing process.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then pat it dry.
- Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the ingrown toenail.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes to allow absorption.
- Rinse the area with warm water and pat it dry.
- Repeat this process several times a day for maximum benefits.
9. Wear Properly Fitting Shoes
Wearing well-fitting shoes is crucial for preventing ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too tight or narrow can compress the toes, leading to ingrown nails. Opt for shoes with ample toe box space to allow proper toe movement and reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Choose shoes that have enough room for your toes to move comfortably.
- Measure your feet regularly to ensure you’re wearing the correct size.
- Avoid narrow or pointed shoe styles that squeeze the toes.
- Opt for shoes made of breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating.
10. Trim Your Nails Correctly
Proper nail trimming techniques can prevent ingrown toenails. Trimming your nails straight across and avoiding curved edges reduces the risk of the nail growing into the surrounding skin.
- Soak your feet in warm water for a few minutes to soften the nails.
- Use clean, sanitized nail clippers to trim your nails.
- Cut the nails straight across, avoiding curved edges.
- Leave a small amount of white nails at the edge.
- File any rough edges using a nail file.
- Avoid cutting your nails too short to prevent ingrown toenails.
11. Elevate Your Feet
Elevating your feet can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort caused by ingrown toenails. It promotes blood circulation, reduces inflammation, and aids in the healing process.
- Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down.
- Prop your feet up on a cushion or pillow.
- Ensure your feet are elevated above your heart level.
- Stay in this position for at least 15-30 minutes.
- Repeat this process several times a day to alleviate discomfort.
12. Maintain Good Foot Hygiene
Maintaining proper foot hygiene is crucial for preventing ingrown toenails. Regularly cleaning your feet, keeping them dry, and avoiding excessive moisture can help reduce the risk of infections and ingrown nails.
- Clean your feet daily with warm water and mild soap.
- Pay special attention to the area around the nails.
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Avoid wearing damp socks or shoes.
- Wear breathable footwear to allow air circulation.
- Change your socks regularly, especially if they become sweaty.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails in the Future?
Here are some effective tips to help you avoid the development of ingrown toenails:
- Proper Nail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded or curved edges. Use sharp and clean toenail clippers, and avoid cutting the nails too short. Keeping the nails at a moderate length can reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Avoid Tight Shoes and Socks: Wear properly-fitted shoes with ample room for your toes to move freely. Avoid tight footwear, as it can pressure the toes and lead to ingrown toenails. Similarly, choose socks made of breathable materials to prevent excessive moisture around the toes.
- Maintain Good Foot Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections contributing to ingrown toenails. After washing your feet, thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes.
- Protect Your Feet: When participating in activities that may cause trauma to your toes, such as sports or heavy lifting, wear protective footwear to reduce the risk of injury.
- Choose Proper Nail Tools: Opt for the right tools for your toenails. Avoid using pointed or sharp objects to clean under the nails, as this can cause injury and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Avoid Cutting Cuticles: Cutting or pushing back the cuticles can lead to nail damage and increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails. Instead, moisturize the cuticles regularly and gently push them back with a soft towel.
- Soak Your Feet: If you are prone to developing ingrown toenails, regularly soak your feet in warm, soapy water. This softens the nails and reduces the chances of the nail growing into the surrounding skin.
- Wear Proper Footwear During Recovery: If you have previously experienced an ingrown toenail and are in the recovery phase, avoid wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that could further irritate the affected area.
- Trim Nails Straight After Showering: The nails are softer and easier to trim after a shower or foot soak. Take advantage of this and trim your toenails straight across when they are softer.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for an ingrown toenail to heal?
The healing time for an ingrown toenail can vary depending on the severity of the condition. With proper care and treatment, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to heal completely.
2. Are there any complications associated with untreated ingrown toenails?
If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infection, abscess formation, and even cellulitis (a skin infection). It is important to address the issue promptly to prevent complications.
3. Can I exercise with an ingrown toenail?
It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity that puts excessive pressure on the affected toe until the ingrown toenail has healed. Consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance.
4. When to see a doctor?
It is advisable to see a doctor about ingrown toenails under the following circumstances:
- Infection: If the ingrown toenail becomes infected, with increased redness, swelling, warmth, and pus or drainage, seeking medical attention is essential. Infections can lead to complications if left untreated and may require antibiotics.
- Severe Pain: If the pain from the ingrown toenail is severe and persistent, it could indicate a more serious issue, and a doctor can assess the condition and provide appropriate pain relief.
- Difficulty Walking: If the pain from the ingrown toenail interferes with walking or daily activities, it is time to consult a healthcare professional for relief and treatment.
- Chronic Recurrence: If ingrown toenails frequently recur despite home remedies, a doctor can help identify underlying causes and recommend preventive measures.
- Complications: If you notice any complications like persistent discharge, an enlarging mass, or skin discoloration around the ingrown toenail, immediate medical attention is necessary.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Ingrown toenails that limit movement of the affected toe or affect adjacent toes may require medical evaluation.
- Fever or Systemic Symptoms: If you experience fever or other systemic symptoms along with an ingrown toenail, it may indicate a severe infection requiring prompt evaluation and treatment.
