6 Natural And Simple Home Remedies For Ingrown Toenails, And How To Prevent Them

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6 home remedies to treat ingrown toenails

If you have an ingrown toenail, there are a few effective and convenient remedies to try:

1. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar seems to be a universal home remedy, and one of its numerous applications is treating ingrown toenails. Here is how to use it, step-by-step:

1. Pour 1/4 cup of vinegar into a basin filled with warm water.
2. Put the affected foot into the basin and let it soak for twenty minutes.
3. Dry the foot well with a towel, or you can even use a hair dryer to achieve complete dryness.

You can do this procedure a couple of times daily every day.

2. Epsom salt

Adding Epsom salt to a foot bath can help you get rid of an ingrown toenail and prevent infection. Use Epsom salt the following way:

1. Dissolve 1 tbsp. of Epsom salt in a basin with warm water.
2. Submerge the affected foot into the basin and let it soak for twenty minutes.
3. Dry the foot well afterwards.

Use this remedy a few times a week (although you can repeat it daily if you want).

3. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common antiseptic found in almost every home. One of its multiple potential uses is treating ingrown toes. Here’s how you use it:

1. Pour 1/2 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide into a basin with warm water.
2. Place the affected foot into a basin for about twenty minutes.
3. Dry your foot well with a towel afterwards.

Use this remedy twice every day for the best effect.

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4. Tea tree oil

Tea tree essential oil has antibacterial properties, which is exactly what you need to treat an ingrown toenail and prevent the toe from becoming infected. Here’s how to apply this remedy:

1. Mix several drops of tea tree oil and 1 tbsp. of coconut or olive oil.
2. Rub the mixture on the affected toenail and toe, and wrap it with a bandage.

Use remedy as often as you find convenient, but it’s best to use it a few times daily for the best effect.

5. Castile soap soak

This is a simple remedy that can provide relief for the discomfort which the ingrown toenail causes, and help you get rid of it. Just add some liquid castile soap to a basin filled with warm water and put your feet in it for twenty minutes. Wash your feet with plain water afterwards and dry them well.

6. Turmeric

This bright yellow spice is usually used in Indian dishes. However, it can be good for your health too. Turmeric contains a compound curcumin, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Mix a half teaspoon of turmeric powder with mustard oil to make a paste. Then, rub the paste over the affected area. Do this several times until you see the result.

When to see your healthcare provider for an ingrown toenail

There are situations in which it’s best to consult a doctor about the best way to treat an ingrown toenail. Go to your doctor if:

• you have diabetes;
• you have a circulation problem that affects your feet and legs, such as peripheral artery disease;
• you have peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes or other medical condition;
• the affected area is swollen;
• there are signs of an infection (these include redness, swelling, pain, and pus).

If you have any of the issues listed above, don’t try any of the remedies before consulting your doctor first.

What to do to prevent ingrown toenails

You can prevent development of an ingrown toenail if you do this:

• wear comfortable shoes and socks that fit well;
• refrain from wearing high heels too often and for too long;
• don’t trim your toenails too short;
• walk barefoot at home;
• wash your feet thoroughly every day.

Source: HealthLine, Natural Living Ideas, Top 10 Home Remedies

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This article is solely for informational purposes. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate, and in all cases consult a certified healthcare professional before using any information presented in the article. The editorial board does not guarantee any results and does not bear any responsibility for harm that may result from using the information provided in the article.