I. Introduction
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that can be very painful and uncomfortable. They occur when the nail grows into the skin and can cause redness, swelling, and even inflammation. This is especially a problem if you are on your feet all day. Fortunately, there are natural solutions you can use to get rid of ingrown toenails without resorting to surgery.
In this article, we will guide you through 5 proven techniques and additional remedies that will help you get rid of ingrown toenails naturally. We will also show you how to prevent their recurrence.
II. 5 Proven Techniques to Get Rid of Ingrown Toenails Naturally
The following five natural remedies are very effective for ingrown toenail removal. Each of these remedies has its own pros and cons, but they all have been tested and can be used without medical supervision.
1. Hydrogen Peroxide and Epsom Salt Soak
Soaking your toe in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and Epsom salt can be very soothing and reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt and 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. Soak your toe for at least 15 minutes twice a day until the toenail begins to grow straight again.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) helps to cure ingrown toenails by killing germs that cause infections. Mix equal parts of ACV and water, then soak your feet in the mixture for about 20-30 minutes every day. The acid in ACV helps to loosen the skin around the affected area, making the nail easier to remove.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that make it an effective treatment for ingrown toenails. Rub a drop or two of pure tea tree oil around the affected area of the toenail twice per day, avoiding any open sores or cuts. This should help to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as prevent infection.
4. Warm Water and Epsom Salt Soak
Soaking your toes in warm water and Epsom salt is a popular natural remedy for ingrown toenails. This remedy can be especially effective in softening the skin around the toenail so that the nail can be removed more easily. Soak your feet for at least 20 minutes a day until the condition starts to improve.
5. Cotton Wool
If the toenail is still embedded in the skin, you can put a small piece of cotton wool between the nail and the skin, gently pushing it to the side. This can help the nail to grow in the right direction and prevent it from growing back into the skin. This method is particularly useful during the night when you can wrap your feet in a bandage to keep the cotton wool in place.
III. The Ultimate Guide to Treating Ingrown Toenails: Tips and Remedies
In addition to the five previous techniques outlined, the following tips and remedies can also be very effective for treating ingrown toenails:
Ibuprofen
If your ingrown toenail has caused pain and swelling, you can take over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs help to relieve pain, reduce swelling and inflammation, making ingrown toenails more manageable.
Trimming Your Nails
Trimming your toenails properly is essential for preventing ingrown toenails. Cut your nails regularly, straight across and not too short. Don’t cut too close to the skin, or you might create another ingrown toenail. Remember, when your nails are too short, they are more likely to dig into the surrounding skin which may cause problems.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wearing tight shoes or high heels puts pressure on your toes, forcing your nails to dig into the surrounding skin. Choose shoes that are more comfortable, have a big toe box and provide ample space for your toes.
Antibiotic Ointment
If your toenail is infected, topical antibiotics can relieve the symptoms and fight the infection. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, on the affected area and cover it with a bandage.
IV. Say Goodbye to Ingrown Toenails: Step by Step Instructions with Pictures
If you want a more comprehensive guide for treating ingrown toenails, follow these steps:
1. Soak Your Feet
Soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt for 20 minutes twice per day. This will help to soften the skin around the toenails. If you want, you can also add essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil to your footbath.
2. Gently Pull the Skin Away from the Nail
Using a cotton swab or a q-tip, gently push the skin away from the nail. Make sure you push the cotton swab down to the base of the nail and not just the edges. This should create a small space for the toenail to grow toward the surface and out from the skin.
3. Place a Small Piece of Cotton Wool under the Nail
Place a small piece of cotton wool under the nail using a clean tweezers, pushing it to one side. This will help to keep the toenail clear of the skin so it can grow freely in the right direction. Change the cotton wool at least once a day. If required, you can also add antibiotic cream to the cotton wool before applying it.
4. Cover Your Toe with a Bandage
Bandage your toe, leaving the cotton wool in place. Use a bandage or tape that will stay in place even when you move around during the day.
Continue this process until the toenail has grown straight and no longer causes you pain or discomfort. If the condition does not improve after a week or two, visit your podiatrist for advice.
V. Preventing Ingrown Toenails for Good: Things to Do and Things to Avoid
Preventing ingrown toenails requires regular foot care and appropriate footwear. Here are some tips to help you prevent ingrown toenails:
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet regularly with warm water and soap. Dry your feet thoroughly to prevent the spread of bacteria and fungi.
Trim Your Toenails Properly
Trim your toenails regularly, straight across and not too short. This will prevent the toenails from digging into the surrounding skin. If you have trouble trimming your toenails, ask a podiatrist for help.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wear shoes that fit comfortably, provide good support, have a proper fitting toe box, and consequently, do not put pressure on your toes or toenails.
Avoid Tight Socks and Hosiery
Socks or hosiery that are too tight can put pressure on your toes, causing your nails to dig into the surrounding skin. Make sure your footwear is the right size and that your socks/hosiery are not too tight.
VI. The Best Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails: Tried and Tested Solutions
Some home remedies for ingrown toenails are highly effective, and you may prefer to use them over medical treatment options. Here are some home remedies that you can use:
Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano has antifungal and antimicrobial properties that make it highly effective in treating ingrown toenails. Mix a few drops of oil of oregano with a carrier oil like olive oil, and apply it to the affected nail twice per day.
Essential Oils
Essential oils like tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil have antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that are effective in treating ingrown toenails. Apply the oil directly to your skin or dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil before application.
White Vinegar
White vinegar also has anti-bacterial properties which can help to reduce inflammation and pain caused by an ingrown toenail. Mix equal parts of warm water and white vinegar, and soak your feet in the mixture for 20-25 minutes once per day.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic and antifungal that helps you to prevent infection around the affected area of the toenail. Crush fresh garlic into a paste and apply directly on the toenail. Wrap a bandage over the toenail and leave it on for a couple of hours before washing it off with water.
VII. Conclusion
Ingrown toenails can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are many natural remedies that you can use to get relief. From soaking your feet and using antibiotic ointments to trimming your nails and wearing comfortable shoes, there are many things you can do to prevent them from occurring. If your ingrown toenail does not improve after a week or two of treatment, visit a podiatrist for a professional solution. Take action on these remedies, and you will be happily on your feet again in no time.
