5 Effective ways to treat an ingrown toenail

Got a painful ingrown toenail? Below are ways you can treat it.

A common problem, an ingrown toenail occurs when the corner of the nail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. With the big toe most likely to be affected, it can cause swelling and pain. To prevent infections, it is important to treat it as soon as you spot them.

Here are some of the most effective ways in which you can treat an ingrown toenail.

  1. Apple cider vinegar
The antiseptic, pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar have made it a common remedy for many problems, including ingrown toenails.

Soak your feet in a bucket of warm water mixed with a quarter of a cup of apple cider vinegar. Try this remedy for 20 minutes daily for effective results.

  1. Lemon juice and honey
The antimicrobial property of lemon and honey will help fight the infection that may have developed on the affected toenail.

Take a little bit of honey and lemon and apply directly to the affected toe. Wrap the toe with a bandage and leave it overnight. Repeat this remedy every evening to see the results.

  1. Epsom salt
The Epsom salt combined with warm water will help reduce the soreness in your nail. It will also soften your nail and make it easier to cut later.

Soak your foot in a bucket of warm water combined with 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt. Put your feet in the water for 15 to 20 minutes about three times every day.

  1. Dental floss
Use a piece of clean and waxed dental floss to carefully life the edge of the toenail. Remember to not dig too much into your nail.

This remedy works best after soaking your foot, as the nail gets softer and easier to lift. Therefore, repeat this remedy every time you soak your feet.

  1. Comfortable shoes
During the healing process, you should wear comfortable shoes. As much as possible, avoid closed shoes. Instead, opt for open-toed shoes like sandals. Also, stay away from heels during the healing process as it adds extra pressure to your shoes.

You might also want to check if your shoes are too tight, as that might be the reason for your ingrown toenail.

Say goodbye to ingrown toenail with these effective ways.