Fix an Ingrown Toenail Permanently

Dr Muhammad Faizan October 31, 2025

How to Fix an Ingrown Toenail Permanently: A Complete Guide

Ingrown toenails are one of the most common — and painful — foot problems people experience. They occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. While it might seem like a small issue at first, untreated ingrown toenails can lead to severe pain and even complications that require surgery.

The good news is that with the right care and preventive steps, you can fix an ingrown toenail permanently and stop it from coming back. In this article, we’ll explore what causes ingrown toenails, how to treat them effectively at home, and when it’s time to see a doctor.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

Before fixing an ingrown toenail, it’s important to understand why it happens in the first place. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Improper nail trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges encourages them to grow into the skin instead of straight out.

  • Tight shoes or socks: Footwear that squeezes the toes can push the nail into the surrounding tissue.

  • Toe injuries: Stubbing your toe or repeated pressure from sports can damage the nail and lead to abnormal growth.

  • Genetics: Some people inherit curved or thick nails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.

  • Poor foot hygiene: Not keeping feet clean and dry can cause bacteria buildup, increasing the risk of infection.

Home Remedies to Fix an Ingrown Toenail

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

1. Soak Your Foot in Warm Salt Water

Soaking your foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) helps reduce swelling and soften the nail.

  • How to do it: Soak for 15–20 minutes, two to three times daily.

  • Why it works: The warm water relaxes the skin and reduces inflammation, while Epsom salt draws out fluids that cause pain.

2. Gently Lift the Nail Edge

After soaking, carefully lift the corner of the nail that’s digging into your skin. Place a small piece of clean cotton or dental floss underneath it to encourage the nail to grow above the skin edge.

  • Tip: Change the cotton daily to prevent infection.

3. Apply an Antiseptic or Antibiotic Ointment

After cleaning the area, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment like Neosporin to prevent bacterial infection. Cover it lightly with a bandage to keep the area clean.

4. Wear Open-Toed or Loose Shoes

Avoid tight shoes that press on your toes. Sandals or wide-fit shoes help relieve pressure and allow healing to occur naturally.

5. Use Pain Relief If Needed

If pain persists, take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These reduce discomfort and inflammation during healing.

When to See a Doctor or Podiatrist

While many ingrown toenails heal with home treatment, some require professional medical attention. You should visit a doctor if:

  • There is severe pain, swelling, or pus (a sign of infection).

  • The problem keeps coming back even after home remedies.

  • You have diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage in your feet.

  • The toenail has grown deeply into the skin and cannot be lifted easily.

Medical Treatments for Permanent Fix

If your ingrown toenail is chronic or severely infected, a podiatrist may recommend one of the following permanent solutions:

1. Partial Nail Removal (Partial Nail Avulsion)

The doctor numbs your toe and removes the ingrown edge of the nail. A special chemical (phenol or sodium hydroxide) is then applied to destroy part of the nail root, preventing that section from growing back.

  • Recovery time: Usually 2–4 weeks.

  • Success rate: Around 95% of patients experience permanent relief.

2. Total Nail Removal (Total Nail Avulsion)

For very severe or deformed nails, the entire toenail may be removed. The nail bed can then be treated to stop regrowth permanently. This is less common but sometimes necessary for chronic cases.

3. Laser or Radiofrequency Treatment

Modern clinics use laser or radiofrequency energy to precisely remove part of the nail matrix (growth tissue). This method minimizes pain and recovery time and offers a long-term fix.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails Permanently

Once you’ve treated the problem, prevention is key to keeping it from coming back. Here are some simple but effective tips:

  • Trim nails correctly: Always cut toenails straight across. Avoid rounding the corners or cutting them too short.

  • Keep feet clean and dry: Regularly wash and dry your feet, especially between the toes.

  • Wear comfortable footwear: Choose shoes that fit well, with enough room for your toes to move freely.

  • Protect your toes: If you play sports or do heavy labor, wear protective shoes or toe guards.

  • Avoid picking or tearing nails: Always use clean nail clippers instead of pulling at rough edges.

Final Thoughts

An ingrown toenail might seem like a small issue, but it can cause major discomfort and even infection if ignored. The key to fixing an ingrown toenail permanently is to treat it early, maintain good foot hygiene, and follow proper nail care habits.

For recurring or painful cases, consult a podiatrist — modern treatments like partial nail removal or laser therapy can offer lasting relief and prevent future problems.

By following these steps, you can keep your feet healthy, pain-free, and ready to take you wherever you need to go.

Post a Comment

0 Comments