Home Remedies to Get Rid Of Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis)

Ingrown toenails, or onychocryptosis, are a common and painful condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to discomfort, swelling, redness, and, if left untreated, infection. While some cases may require professional medical attention, many can be treated at home.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

• Improper Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can cause the nail to grow into the skin.

• Ill-Fitting Shoes: Tight shoes, especially high heels, put pressure on the toes, forcing the nail to grow incorrectly.

• Injury: Trauma to the toenail area can lead to improper nail growth.

• Genetics: Some people are naturally more prone to ingrown nails due to the shape of their nails.

• Infections: Bacterial and fungal infections can change the nail's shape and thickness.

• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes must be extremely cautious with ingrown toenails and should seek professional help, as minor cuts can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail

• Pain in the toenail area.

• Redness and swelling.

• Discharge of pus or blood, indicating a possible infection.

Best Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

1. Foot Soaks: Soaking your feet is a crucial step in softening the nail and skin, making other treatments more effective. Soak your feet for 20-30 minutes, 2-4 times daily, in warm water with one of the following additions:

• Epsom Salt: A heaped tablespoon of Epsom salt helps soften the skin and draw out the nail.

• Hydrogen Peroxide: A mixture of half a cup of hydrogen peroxide in water softens the skin and helps prevent infection.

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Adding a few tablespoons of ACV to the water can help fight off infection.

2. The Cotton Ball Method: After a foot soak, this method helps lift the ingrown nail away from the skin.

• Roll a small piece of cotton into a tiny cylinder.

• Carefully lift the nail's edge and gently place the cotton roll between the nail and the skin.

• Leave the roll in place until your next soak, and change it after each one. With each change, try to position it a little further under the nail to encourage it to grow straight.

3. Topical Treatments: These can be applied directly to the affected area to relieve pain and prevent infection.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Dab a cotton ball soaked in raw ACV on the toe several times a day.

• Essential Oils: Apply a few drops of eucalyptus, tea tree, oregano, or lavender oil. Dilute oregano and tea tree oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil before applying.

• White Flower Oil: This herbal oil blend can also be used to soften the nail and ease its removal.

4. Other Home Methods:

• Lemon Slice: Secure a thin slice of lemon to the toenail with a bandage and leave it overnight. The acidity of the lemon can help fight infection.

• Vicks VapoRub: The antiseptic and softening properties of Vicks can help relieve pain and make the nail easier to trim. Apply it directly to the toenail, get some underneath, and cover with a bandage overnight.

Prevention and Aftercare:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Wear comfortable, wide shoes that give your toes plenty of space. Avoid high heels.

• Trim Correctly: Cut your toenails straight across, not in a rounded shape, and avoid cutting them too short.

• Let Your Feet Breathe: While treating an ingrown toenail, go barefoot or wear open-toed shoes to allow the toe to heal.

If the pain and swelling worsen, or you notice signs of a serious infection (such as a significant amount of pus or spreading redness), it is essential to seek professional medical advice to avoid complications.