We received this question recently:
I have an ingrown toenail. It’s hurting less and the top is white. I do not want to go to a doctor. Is this ok? My mom said that I just have to keep cutting it and it will just work itself out. Is there any way I can prevent this in the future?
I don’t think I need to get it dug out. I’m not just saying that, it hurts less. I was wondering, can I do the cotton ball thing with an ingrown toenail? My nail is (i think) in the process of growing out
My answer:
Hi Emma,
Once a nail is actually ingrown, most people need to go to the doctor to have it removed.But if you have a toenail that is in the process of becoming ingrown -you can soak the foot in warm water with epsom salt for 5-10 minutes. Then take a piece of cotton from a cottonball and put it between the toenail and skin. Remove the cotton and replace it with a new piece every day -this will allow the nail to grow out enough so that it can not become ingrown.
In the future, make sure you only cut the toenail straight across and not too short.
Good luck!
P.S. Yes, I think you should try the cotton thing. As long as you can get a piece inbetween the nail and skin…then you can use the piece of cotton!
Soaking your feet 4 times a day in warm water can help an ingrown toenail, as it can soften the nail so that it becomes less painful.
Make sure you keep your toe clean and keep a dressing on it if the skin is broken. The best sort of dressing are non lint ones which will not stick to the skin. This will help reduce the risk of infection, as if it becomes infected you will need to seek the attention of your podiatrist who may be able to offer you anti-biotics to reduce the infection.
Improper trimming of toenails can cause an ingrown toenail as corners of the nail begin to dig into the skin. Nails should be trimmed straight across, not rounded and not too short.