How to Fix an Ingrown Toenail Permanently: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

An ingrown toenail is a painful and common condition that occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. While mild cases can be treated at home, recurring or severe ingrown toenails may need medical attention or even a permanent solution.

This article explains what causes ingrown toenails, how to treat them safely at home, and the medical procedures available for a permanent fix.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, happens when the nail’s edge grows sideways into the skin instead of outward. This irritates the skin, leading to pain, inflammation, and sometimes pus formation if bacteria enter the affected area.

It can affect anyone, but it is especially common in teenagers, athletes, and people who wear tight shoes for long periods.

Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Understanding what causes an ingrown toenail is essential for both treatment and prevention. Some of the most common reasons include:

Improper Nail Trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin.
Tight Footwear – Shoes or socks that squeeze the toes increase pressure on the nails.
Injury to the Toe – Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it can change nail growth direction.
Genetics – Some people naturally have curved or thick toenails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.
Poor Foot Hygiene – Sweat, moisture, and dirt around the toes can soften the skin, making it easier for the nail to pierce through.
Repetitive Activities – Sports like soccer, running, or dancing can lead to repeated toe trauma, increasing the risk.

Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

You can identify an ingrown toenail by the following signs and symptoms:

Pain or tenderness along the side of the toenail
Redness and swelling around the nail
Warmth or throbbing sensation in the affected area
Pus or fluid discharge (indicating infection)
Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably

Early detection makes it easier to treat and prevent complications.

Home Remedies for Mild Ingrown Toenails

If your ingrown toenail is mild and not infected, you can often treat it at home using simple remedies:

1. Warm Water Soak

Soak your foot in warm, soapy water for 15–20 minutes, three times a day. This softens the skin and reduces inflammation, allowing the nail to grow more freely. Adding Epsom salt can also help draw out fluid and soothe discomfort.

2. Lift the Nail Gently

After soaking, you can carefully lift the edge of the nail using a small piece of cotton or dental floss. Place it under the nail corner to encourage it to grow above the skin. Change the cotton daily and keep the area clean.

3. Apply Antibacterial Ointment

Use an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Cover it lightly with a clean bandage to protect it from dirt and bacteria.

4. Wear Open-Toed Shoes

Let your feet breathe. Avoid tight or closed footwear until the area heals. This prevents additional pressure on the affected toe.

5. Pain Relief

Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation while the nail heals.

Medical Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

If home remedies don’t help or the condition worsens, medical treatment is the safest and most effective option. Doctors or podiatrists (foot specialists) can perform minor procedures to fix the problem permanently.

1. Partial Nail Removal (Partial Nail Avulsion)

For severe or infected ingrown toenails, a doctor may remove part of the nail. After numbing the toe, the affected portion of the nail is cut away, and the area is cleaned thoroughly.

In many cases, a chemical called phenol is applied to prevent that portion of the nail from growing back — this offers a permanent solution to recurring ingrown toenails.

2. Total Nail Removal

In chronic or severe cases, the entire toenail may be removed. Although the nail may regrow, it often grows back thinner or differently, reducing the chance of recurrence.

3. Treating Infection

If an infection has developed, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. In rare cases, drainage may be needed if pus has accumulated under the skin.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails Permanently

Prevention is always better than treatment. Following these tips can help keep your toenails healthy and free from recurring ingrown problems.

1. Trim Toenails Properly

Cut nails straight across instead of rounding the corners. Use clean, sharp nail clippers and avoid trimming them too short.

2. Wear Proper Footwear

Choose shoes that fit well and allow enough room for your toes to move freely. Avoid narrow or pointed shoes that press against the sides of the nails.

3. Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture encourages bacterial growth that can worsen an ingrown nail.

4. Avoid Picking or Peeling Nails

Never tear or peel off parts of your nail, as this can change the nail’s shape and increase the risk of future ingrowth.

5. Protect Your Feet from Injury

Be cautious during sports or heavy work. Always wear protective footwear to prevent trauma to your toes.

6. Regular Foot Care

If you have diabetes or circulation problems, check your feet daily for early signs of nail problems. Regular podiatrist visits can help detect and prevent complications early.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a doctor if:

The pain is severe or persistent.
There’s pus or a bad odor indicating infection.
You have diabetes, nerve damage, or poor blood circulation.
The ingrown nail keeps coming back after home care.

Prompt treatment can prevent deeper infection or the spread of bacteria to the bone, which can be serious if left untreated.

Final Thoughts

Ingrown toenails are painful but manageable if treated early and properly. For mild cases, warm soaks and proper nail care can help relieve discomfort and promote healing. However, chronic or infected cases may need medical procedures for a permanent fix.

By trimming nails correctly, maintaining good foot hygiene, and wearing properly fitted shoes, you can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown toenails recurring. If you experience ongoing pain or infection, consult a podiatrist for a long-term, permanent solution and keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

Fix an Ingrown Toenail Permanently