An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail, usually on the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin. It can be very painful, red and swollen, and it can get infected. Mild cases often improve with home care, but some need treatment from a doctor or podiatrist.
Quick answer
- At home: soak your foot in warm water, keep it clean and dry, wear roomy shoes and gently lift the skin away from the nail.
- Do not dig out the nail or cut a “V” in it.
- See a doctor or podiatrist if there are signs of infection, or straight away if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Symptoms
- pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
- red, swollen skin around the nail
- signs of infection: pus, bleeding, overgrown skin, or redness and warmth spreading
What causes ingrown toenails?
- Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners
- Tight or narrow shoes, high heels or tight socks
- Injury such as stubbing your toe or dropping something on it
- Sweaty feet, which soften the skin
- Naturally curved or thick nails
- Activities that put pressure on the toes, such as football or running
How to treat an ingrown toenail at home
- Soak your foot in warm water (you can add a little mild soap) for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. This softens the skin and reduces swelling.
- Gently lift the skin away from the nail edge using a cotton bud after soaking. Some people place a small piece of clean cotton or waxed dental floss under the nail edge to help it grow above the skin. Change it daily.
- Keep the area clean and dry between soaks.
- Wear comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes, or open sandals.
- Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed.
What not to do
- Do not try to cut out the ingrown part of the nail or dig under it.
- Do not cut a “V” shape into the nail; it does not help.
- Do not use sharp tools or “ingrown toenail kits” that cut the skin.
When to see a doctor or podiatrist
- the toe is very painful, or home care has not helped after a few days
- there are signs of infection: pus, spreading redness or warmth, or a fever
- the problem keeps coming back
- you have diabetes, nerve damage in your feet, or poor circulation. Even small foot problems can become serious, so get it checked promptly.
Medical treatments
- Lifting the nail edge and placing a splint or cotton under it.
- Partial nail removal: under local anesthetic, the ingrown edge is removed. A chemical is often applied to stop that part of the nail growing back.
- Antibiotics if the toe is infected.
How to prevent ingrown toenails
- Cut nails straight across, not too short, and leave the corners visible.
- Use clean nail clippers.
- Wear shoes that fit well and leave room for your toes.
- Keep your feet clean and dry, and change socks daily.
- Wear protective footwear if your job or sport risks injuring your toes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an ingrown toenail take to heal?
Mild cases often improve within a week of home care. Infected or recurring ones may need treatment from a professional.
Can I use antibiotic cream?
An antiseptic or antibiotic cream may help keep the area clean, but if the toe is clearly infected, see a doctor.
Are ingrown toenails common in children?
Yes, especially in teenagers. The same home care and prevention tips apply.
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or podiatrist. Last reviewed: November 2026.
Sources
- NHS: Ingrown toenail
- Mayo Clinic: Ingrown toenails, symptoms and causes
- Mayo Clinic: Ingrown toenails, diagnosis and treatment
- Cleveland Clinic: Ingrown toenails
