Can ingrown toenails heal on their own? The most frequently asked questions about ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails are a widespread issue, but their prevalence doesn't lessen the discomfort they cause. Can ingrown toenails heal without intervention? If not, what are the best treatment options? We've researched this topic thoroughly and will address these questions and more below. Continue reading to discover the most effective treatment methods.

Yes, in mild cases. If the toenail is red, slightly swollen, and not infected, you might not need medical treatment. You can allow the nail to grow out naturally.

• What happens if you don't treat an ingrown toenail? It could become infected, so it's best to consult a doctor, except in mild cases.
• In the early stage (mild), the skin around the nail is slightly red and painful.
• In the second stage (moderate), the ingrown nail becomes more swollen and may produce pus or discharge.
• In the third stage (severe), increased redness, pain, swelling, and discharge indicate an infection.

It may take 2 weeks with proper self-care. In young, healthy adults, toenails grow an average of 1.62 mm per month. Unfortunately, toenails grow slower than fingernails. Additionally, healthy nails tend to grow faster than damaged or ingrown ones.

• Most experts recommend seeking treatment for ingrown toenails rather than waiting for them to grow out naturally.

Soak your feet in warm water. Soak the affected foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day. This step softens the skin and nail, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain.

• You can add mild soap or Epsom salt to the warm water.
• Dry your feet thoroughly after soaking. Wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes.

Apply antibiotic ointment if the condition worsens. If the toe becomes more red and swollen, antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection. After soaking, dry your feet and apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the affected area. You may cover the toe with a medical bandage.

Choose comfortable and well-fitting footwear. Tight shoes or narrow toe boxes can cause or worsen ingrown toenails. If you're dealing with toenail issues, opt for sandals or open-toed shoes when possible. For closed-toe shoes, select ones with a spacious toe area to allow your toes to move freely.

Avoid placing cotton under the nail. Many websites suggest lifting the corner of the toenail and inserting a cotton ball to prevent it from growing into the skin. However, the American Academy of Foot and Ankle Surgeons advises against this. Cotton creates an ideal environment for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

No, you should never attempt to dig out an ingrown toenail. Cutting the nail or trying to remove the surrounding skin can worsen the problem and lead to infection. Avoid DIY removal. If trimming is necessary, carefully cut the nail straight across.

Consult a doctor if home remedies prove ineffective. Should your toenail show no improvement after 2-3 days, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. The doctor can determine the appropriate treatment based on the stage of the ingrown toenail.

Seek medical attention if the toenail becomes infected. Infections from ingrown toenails are common and require medical treatment. If your toenail is red, swollen, painful, and has pus or discharge, visit a doctor for antibiotic prescriptions to treat the infection.

Seek medical care if you have diabetes or other health issues. Avoid treating ingrown toenails at home if you have poor blood circulation, nerve issues in your feet, or diabetes. Promptly consult a general physician or a podiatrist.

In most cases, the doctor will remove part of the ingrown toenail. There are several techniques to address ingrown toenails, depending on their location and severity. Typically, the doctor will numb the toe before removing the infected or ingrown portion. They will then apply a solution to the nail bed to prevent the ingrown part from growing back.

• After the procedure, most doctors recommend soaking your foot in Epsom salt water twice daily. Use 1-3 tablespoons of Epsom salt per liter of water.
• Keep the toenail and foot clean, dry, and wear comfortable, roomy shoes.

In many cases, ingrown toenails can be prevented. Some individuals are at higher risk due to genetic factors. However, you can take several steps to reduce the likelihood of ingrown toenails, including:

• Trim toenails straight across (avoid rounding the edges; allow the nail to grow over the skin)
• Wear roomy shoes with enough space for toe movement
• Avoid injuring your toes
• Refrain from picking or pulling at the nail edges