Best Treatments for Ingrown Toenails: From Natural Fixes to Medical Solutions

Ingrown toenails are a common but painful condition that can make even the simplest activities—like walking or wearing shoes—difficult. While anyone can develop an ingrown toenail, it is especially prevalent among athletes, individuals with poor foot hygiene, and those who wear tight-fitting shoes.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best treatments for ingrown toenails: from natural fixes to medical solutions, offering advice backed by expert knowledge and designed to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails in Depth

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

Pain, redness, swelling, and occasionally infection are symptoms of an ingrown toenail, which happens when the toenail’s edge pushes into the surrounding skin. This typically affects the big toe, although any toe can be impacted.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

• Inappropriate toenail care (too short or rounded edges)
• Tight or ill-fitting shoes
• Repeated trauma to the toe
• Poor foot hygiene
• Genetic predisposition
• Nail infections or fungal issues
• Obesity and foot deformities

Signs and Symptoms

• Tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
• Red, swollen skin around the nail
• Pain when pressure is applied
• Pus, drainage, or bad odor (infection)
• Thickened or curved nails

Natural Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

For mild cases, natural treatments can be effective and easy to implement at home.

1. Warm Water Soaks

Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water for 15–20 minutes three times a day softens the skin and nail. Adding Epsom salt helps reduce swelling and fight infection.

How to do it:

• Use warm water (not hot)
• Add 1–2 tablespoons of Epsom salt
• Gently lift the edge of the nail if possible

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Soaks

Natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities can be found in apple cider vinegar.

Instructions:

• Combine three parts warm water with one part apple cider vinegar.
• Soak the affected foot for 15–20 minutes

3. Use of Dental Floss or Cotton

After soaking, placing dental floss or cotton under the ingrown nail can encourage it to grow above the skin edge.

Caution:

• Always use clean hands and sterile materials
• Replace the cotton or floss daily

4. Essential Oils

Tea tree oil and lavender oil offer antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection.

How to apply:

• Mix with a carrier oil like coconut oil
• Apply 2–3 times daily using a cotton swab

5. Proper Footwear and Hygiene

Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals while healing helps reduce pressure. Also, keeping feet clean and dry can prevent bacteria buildup.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

If natural remedies are not enough, OTC solutions can offer additional relief.

1. Topical Antibiotic Creams

Antibiotic ointments like Neosporin can help combat infection and soothe inflammation.

2. Pain Relievers

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to treat pain and inflammation.

3. Toe Protectors and Bandages

Silicone toe caps or cushioned bandages protect the area from further trauma and help healing.

4. Ingrown Toenail Lifting Tools

Available in pharmacies, these tools help gently lift the nail for better growth.

Foot Soaking Variations to Enhance Healing

1. Hydrogen Peroxide Soak

Helps disinfect and reduce infection risk.

• Mix ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide in a basin of warm water
• Soak for 15–20 minutes daily

2. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice

• Natural exfoliant and antibacterial mixture
• 1 tbsp baking soda + juice from 1 lemon in warm water

3. Chamomile Tea Foot Bath

Chamomile reduces inflammation and soothes the skin.

• Brew strong chamomile tea and add to foot basin

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, home care isn’t enough. If the ingrown toenail becomes severely painful, swollen, or infected, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider.

Signs You Need Medical Help:

• Pus or bleeding
• Severe swelling or redness
• Fever or spreading infection
• Chronic recurrence

High-Risk Groups

• People with diabetes
• Individuals with peripheral artery disease
• Those with autoimmune disorders

Medical Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

1. Partial Nail Removal (Partial Nail Avulsion)

This procedure involves removing part of the nail to relieve pressure and pain.

Procedure:

• Local anesthesia is applied
• A section of the nail is trimmed or removed
• Recovery takes a few weeks

2. Total Nail Removal

In extreme cases, the entire nail may be removed. This is uncommon and typically saved for long-term situations.

3. Phenolization

After partial removal, phenol (a chemical) is applied to the nail root to prevent regrowth.

4. Laser Treatment

Laser therapy can be used to remove part of the nail and kill the tissue that causes the nail to grow.

Benefits:

• Less invasive
• Minimal pain
• Quick recovery

5. Cryotherapy (Freezing Method)

This method destroys the nail matrix using cold temperatures to stop problematic regrowth.

6. Antibiotics (Oral or Topical)

In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to stop bacterial spread.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Tips

1. Elevate the Foot

Helps reduce swelling in the first 24–48 hours.

2. Wear Loose Shoes

Promotes airflow and avoids pressure on the healing toe.

3. Apply Ice Packs

Helps with pain management and swelling.

4. Keep the Area Clean

Change dressings daily and apply antibiotic ointment.

5. Avoid Sports or Strain

Allow at least one week of reduced physical activity.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

1. Proper Nail Trimming Techniques

• Cut straight across, avoid tapering corners
• Use clean, sharp nail scissors

2. Choose the Right Footwear

• Opt for shoes with wide toe boxes
• Avoid pointed or high-heeled shoes for daily wear

3. Maintain Foot Hygiene

• Clean feet daily
• Use antifungal powders if needed

4. Use Moisturizers and Foot Creams

Keeps skin supple and reduces the chances of nail embedding into dry or cracked skin

5. Monitor for Early Symptoms

Check for redness, swelling, or tenderness—especially if you’ve had ingrown nails before

Complications of Untreated Ingrown Toenails

1. Infection

An untreated nail can pierce the skin and allow bacteria in, leading to cellulitis or abscess.

2. Bone Infection (Osteomyelitis)

Chronic infections can spread to the bone, requiring prolonged treatment.

3. Permanent Nail Deformity

Repeated issues can result in permanent changes to nail shape or regrowth direction.

4. Ulcers (especially in diabetics)

Minor injuries can develop into foot ulcers, especially in individuals with neuropathy.

FAQs – Best Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

Q1: What is the fastest way to treat an ingrown toenail? The fastest relief often comes from warm water soaks followed by gently lifting the nail with clean dental floss or cotton. Pain relievers can also help immediately.

Q2: Are there risks in treating ingrown toenails at home? Yes. Improper treatment can worsen the condition or lead to infection. Always maintain cleanliness and don’t force the nail.

Q3: Can I prevent ingrown toenails permanently? Yes, with consistent foot care, proper trimming, and good footwear. In chronic cases, medical procedures like phenolization can prevent regrowth.

Q4: Is surgery the only option for recurring ingrown toenails? Not necessarily. Laser treatments and phenolization are less invasive alternatives. Consult a podiatrist for the best option.

Q5: Can I walk after ingrown toenail removal? Yes, but it’s recommended to limit walking for the first few days. Wear open-toed or loose shoes for comfort.

Q6: How long does it take for an ingrown toenail to heal? Mild cases can heal in a few days with home care. Surgical treatments may take a few weeks for full recovery.

Q7: What doctor treats ingrown toenails? A podiatrist (foot specialist) is the best medical professional to treat ingrown toenails.

Q8: Can I paint my toenails after treatment? You should wait until the area is fully healed to avoid irritation or infection from nail polish.

Q9: Do pedicures help or hurt ingrown toenails? If done incorrectly, pedicures can worsen the issue. Always inform your technician and consider medical pedicures for safer care.

Q10: Are ingrown toenails more common in some people? Yes. Those with thick or curved nails, athletes, and people with poor footwear choices are at higher risk.

Conclusion

Ingrown toenails may be common, but they should never be ignored. Whether you’re seeking natural remedies or professional medical solutions, understanding the best treatments for ingrown toenails: from natural fixes to medical solutions ensures you’re well-equipped to deal with this painful condition effectively.

The key to managing this issue is early intervention, proper care, and knowing when to seek medical attention. By following the expert-backed solutions outlined here and maintaining healthy foot care practices, you can manage and even prevent ingrown toenails from recurring, keeping your feet pain-free and healthy.