Ingrown toenails: How to treat and prevent them
If you’ve ever experienced ingrown toenails you know how painful they can be. They can turn a stroll around the park into a bit of a nightmare. In this blog, we'll share what ingrown toenails are, what causes them, and provide you with some top tips to keep your toes happy and pain-free.
What are ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails are often referred to as "onychocryptosis" in medical lingo. They happen when the edge of the toenail is curled and grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes infection if it’s not properly addressed. Ingrown toenails can affect anyone, and they're common in people who wear tight shoes and sometimes those that don't trim their nails properly.
Causes of ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails can sometimes simply just happen. But more often than your nail will grow into your skin because of an underlying issue.
- Incorrect nail trimming
One of the leading causes of ingrown toenails is cutting your nails too short or rounding the edges. When nails are trimmed too close to the skin, they're more likely to grow into it. So say goodbye to those curved clippers and hello to Scholl Toenail Clippers!
- Tight shoes and socks
Squeezing your feet into shoes that are too tight can put extra pressure on your toenails. That pressure encourages your nails to grow in the wrong direction. Make sure that shoes fit properly and have enough wiggle room for your toes!
- Injury
We’ve all experienced the exponential pain of stubbing our toes. But as well as 3 seconds of undeniable pain, trauma to the nail area can disrupt its normal growth pattern. Previous injuries actually increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Hereditary Factors
Some people can be born with nails that have a natural tendency to curve inward. If ingrown toenails run in your family, keep an eye on your toes. And read more about how you can prevent them.
Top Tips to prevent ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails can sometimes be treated at home or avoided altogether with simple remedies. If you’re suffering from ingrown toenails you can use a warm soak to soften the skin. You can also talk to your pharmacist about treatment to ease pain and prevent or treat infections.
See your GP or a foot specialist if your toenail becomes infected. And if there’s one thing you do, please resist the urge to perform at-home surgery on ingrown toenails. It can lead to infection and make things worse. (1)
Instead try:
- Trimming your nails straight
- Roomy, well-fitting and comfortable shoes
- Daily soaks in warm soapy water
- Keep your foot clean and dry between soaks
Ingrown toenails don't have to ruin your day. By practicing proper nail care, choosing comfortable shoes, and following these top tips, you can keep those toenails on the right path. Remember, if the pain persists or you suspect an infection, don't hesitate to seek professional medical advice. Happy toes, happy you!
