An ingrown toenail can be painful and frustrating, especially when it causes redness, swelling, or infection. While professional ingrown toenail removal is the best option for severe cases, there are several home remedies you can try to relieve discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening. If you’re struggling with a persistent ingrown toenail, keep reading to learn about at-home treatment and when to seek professional care from our Marietta podiatrist.
Soak Your Foot in Warm Water
A warm foot soak can help soften the skin and reduce inflammation.
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Fill a basin with warm water and add Epsom salt for extra relief.
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Soak your foot for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
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Gently massage the area around the toenail to reduce tenderness.
Use a Cotton or Dental Floss Technique
After soaking, you can try gently lifting the ingrown edge of the nail.
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Take a small piece of cotton or waxed dental floss and place it under the nail.
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This can help guide the nail to grow out correctly.
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Change the cotton or floss daily to prevent infection.
Apply an Antiseptic and Keep It Covered
Keeping the area clean is essential to prevent infection.
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Use an antiseptic solution or antibiotic ointment.
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Cover the toe with a clean bandage to protect it from bacteria.
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Avoid using harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, which can slow healing.
Wear Comfortable, Open-Toed Shoes
Tight-fitting shoes can make an ingrown toenail worse. Opt for open-toed shoes or roomy footwear that doesn’t put pressure on your toes. Avoid high heels and narrow shoes until the toenail has healed.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
If your ingrown toenail is painful, you can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce swelling and discomfort.
When to See a Georgia Podiatrist
While mild ingrown toenails can improve with home care, some cases require professional ingrown toenail removal. You should seek help from a podiatrist if:
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The pain worsens or doesn’t improve after a few days.
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You notice signs of infection (pus, redness, or increasing swelling).
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You have diabetes or circulation issues, which can make complications more likely.
Our Georgia podiatrist offers expert ingrown toenail removal to provide lasting relief and prevent recurrence. If your ingrown toenail isn’t healing with home treatment, contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward pain-free feet!
