If you have ever experienced an ingrown toenail, you already know how uncomfortable—and sometimes painful—it can be. This common condition, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. While it may begin as a minor irritation, an ingrown toenail can quickly worsen, leading to swelling, infection, and in some cases, the need for surgical treatment.

Rather than waiting for the problem to resolve on its own—which is unlikely—early intervention is key. Taking action as soon as symptoms appear can prevent complications and speed up healing. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies you can try at home to reduce pain, fight infection, and encourage the nail to grow correctly. In this article, we’ll explore the most effective home treatments for ingrown toenails and explain when medical care is necessary.

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Causes of Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis)

Ingrown toenails can develop on any toe or even on fingernails, but they most commonly affect the big toe. Some people are naturally more prone to this condition due to the natural curvature of their nails. However, several other factors can cause or worsen ingrown toenails:

Ill-Fitting Shoes

Tight shoes, narrow toe boxes, and high heels place excessive pressure on the toes. This pressure can force the nail to grow sideways or downward into the surrounding skin.

Improper Nail Trimming

Toenails should always be trimmed straight across. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners encourages the nail edges to dig into the skin as they grow.

Injury or Trauma

An injury near the toenail—such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it—can alter nail growth. In some cases, trauma may cause the nail to fall off and regrow incorrectly.

Infections

Bacterial or fungal infections can thicken or distort the nail and surrounding tissue, increasing the risk of ingrowth. Fungal toenail infections are a common contributing factor.

Diabetes and Circulatory Issues

People with diabetes or poor circulation must be especially cautious. Reduced sensation in the feet can delay detection of ingrown toenails, allowing infections to develop unnoticed. Even minor cuts can become serious, so daily foot inspections and regular podiatry care are essential.

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Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Unless you have reduced sensation in your feet, ingrown toenails are usually easy to recognize. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness along the edge of the toenail

• Redness and swelling around the nail

• Warmth in the affected area

• Drainage if infection develops, which may be yellow (pus), watery, or tinged with blood

As the condition progresses, pain may increase, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable.

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Best Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

1. Soak Your Feet Regularly

Foot soaks are one of the most important steps in treating ingrown toenails. Soaking softens both the nail and surrounding skin, making it easier to lift the nail and apply other treatments effectively.

How to soak properly:

• Soak your feet 2–4 times daily

• Each soak should last 20–30 minutes

• Use warm or hot (not scalding) water

You can enhance the benefits by adding the following ingredients:

Epsom Salt
Epsom salt helps soften skin, reduce inflammation, and draw the nail away from the skin. Add one heaped tablespoon per bowl of warm water and soak for 20 minutes, at least twice daily.

Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix half a cup of hydrogen peroxide into a basin of warm water. This helps soften tissue, reduce bacterial growth, and relieve discomfort.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Adding a few tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar to warm water can help disinfect the area and reduce swelling. ACV also has antibacterial properties that support healing.

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2. The Cotton Ball Method

Once your foot has been softened by soaking, you can try gently lifting the nail:

1. Roll a small piece of cotton into a thin strip

2. Carefully lift the edge of the nail

3. Place the cotton between the nail and the skin

This method helps elevate the nail and prevents it from digging deeper into the skin. While it may be uncomfortable at first, it can be very effective over time.

• Leave the cotton in place until the next soak

• Replace it after each soak

• Gradually push it a little farther under the nail as tolerated

Never force the nail or cause bleeding.

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3. Topical Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

Applying treatments directly to the affected area can reduce pain and help prevent infection.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Soak a cotton ball in raw ACV and dab it onto the inflamed area several times a day.

Essential Oils
Essential oils have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a few drops directly or dilute with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil. Useful options include:

• Tea tree oil

• Eucalyptus oil

• Lavender oil

• Oregano oil (always dilute before use)

• White flower oil (a blend of herbal oils used to ease nail removal)

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4. Other Home Treatments to Try

Lemon Slice
Secure a thin slice of lemon over the affected nail with gauze or a bandage and leave it on overnight. Lemon’s acidity helps fight infection and soften the nail.

Vicks VapoRub
This menthol-based ointment softens the nail and acts as a mild antiseptic. Apply it directly to the nail—trying to get some underneath if possible—and cover with a bandage overnight. It can reduce pain and make nail lifting easier the next day.

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Foot Care During Treatment

While treating an ingrown toenail at home:

• Avoid tight shoes and socks

• Go barefoot or wear open-toed footwear when possible

• Keep the foot clean and dry

• Trim nails straight across once healing begins

After recovery, always wear comfortable shoes with adequate toe space and maintain proper nail-cutting habits to prevent recurrence.

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When to See a Doctor

If home treatments do not improve the condition, or if you notice signs of infection such as increasing redness, pus, severe pain, or fever, seek medical attention promptly. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or compromised immunity should consult a healthcare professional at the first sign of an ingrown toenail to avoid serious complications.