• Soaking– Soak your foot in warm water or in 2 tablespoons of Epsom salts per quart of warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
• Using ointment– Apply an antibacterial ointment on the side of the nail.
• Trimming– Trim your toenails straight across the top, making sure not to cut them too short.

If the ingrown toenail is painful and infected, see a podiatrist as soon as possible. A small infection, if left untreated, can lead to a larger infection that may require hospitalization or surgery.

Is There a Permanent Cure for Ingrown Toenails?

If part of your nail or all of your toenail and nail bed are removed, you may still get another ingrown toenail in the future. If you have frequent ingrown toenails and infections, your doctor can also destroy the nail matrix by using a chemical. Removing this layer of tissue underneath the nail keeps ingrown toenails from growing back.

How do I Stop an Ingrown Toenail from Coming Back?

Take the following steps to reduce your chances of an ingrown toenail occurring:

• Trim your toenails correctly – Don’t trim your nails in a curved shape. Instead, cut them straight across and no shorter than the tips of your toes.
• Wear properly fitting shoes– Don’t wear shoes that pinch your toes or put too much pressure.

When Should You Go to a Doctor for an Ingrown Toenail?

If your symptoms don’t improve with at-home care, you should see your doctor. If you have any other medical conditions, skip at-home remedies and make a doctor’s appointment.

What can I do to Prevent an Ingrown Toenail?

Practicing general foot hygiene, keeping your foot clean, making sure the shoes fit properly, trimming your toenails straight across, and not digging into the nail corners, are all things you can do to help prevent getting ingrown toenails.

How Long Does Toenail Surgery Take to Heal?

Your doctor may need to remove part of your nail and the underlying nail bed if you have recurring ingrown toenails. The time it takes for you to recover after your surgery depends on the amount of nail that’s removed.

If part of your nail is removed, it takes about 3-4 months to grow back. If your entire nail is removed, it may take up to a year to grow back.

If you have an ingrown toenail, make an appointment today with South Shore Foot Care in Franklin Square, NY or Cedarhurst, NY. We have 25 years of experience in providing skilled, compassionate care for foot issues.