Step by Step Instructions for Curing an Ingrown Toenail

If you currently have or have had an ingrown toenail, no one has to tell you how painful they can be. The red, inflamed skin swells over top of the nail. If you can not remove the nail and calm the skin, you could end up with an infection. Fortunately, taking care of an ingrown toenail is easy if you begin early enough. All it takes is some hot water, an antiseptic, a dual-sided ingrown toenail file and some patience and perseverance.

Ingrown toenails are best treated if they are caught early. Always pay attention to your feet and what they tell you. If you have tenderness in the skin around your toenail, you could be getting an ingrown toenail. Inspect your toe to see what is causing the tenderness. At this stage, all you have to do is file the nail that is causing you pain. Always file straight across, never round the nail as this is the number one cause of ingrown toenails.

If your ingrown toenail is more advanced, follow these steps:

• Soak your foot in warm, soapy water. This will soften the skin and make it easier for you to be able to pull the toenail up and away from the swollen skin.
• Use a dual-sided ingrown toenail file to pry the nail up and away from the skin. Hold the nail up with the file so that you can clip it and shape it.
• Dry off your foot completely. Cleanse it with hydrogen peroxide.
• Wear loose, comfortable shoes until the soreness subsides.
• Continue two times daily until healed.

If you follow these steps and your condition keeps getting worse, you may need to consult a doctor. There are in-office procedures that can alleviate your condition and pain immediately. You should also check for signs of infection. If you think your toe is infected, consult your doctor.

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