10 Tips for Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and frustrating, causing discomfort and inconvenience in our daily lives. They occur when the edge of the nail grows or digs into the skin surrounding the nail, leading to redness, swelling, and, oftentimes, infection. While some people may be more prone to ingrown toenails due to genetics or structural abnormalities in their nails, everyone can take several preventative measures to minimise the risk. In this post, we will delve into ten valuable tips for preventing ingrown toenails effectively.

1. Trim Your Nails Correctly:

Proper nail trimming is essential for preventing ingrown toenails. Be sure to trim your nails straight across rather than curved or too short on the sides. Moreover, avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin. This will help prevent the likelihood of your nails growing into the surrounding skin. If you suffer from ingrown nails already, find a local healthcare professional for safe removal. For instance, if you live in Auckland, look for a podiatrist offering treatment for your ingrown toenail in Auckland.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes and Socks:

Ill-fitting shoes and socks that squeeze or constrict your toes can increase the risk of ingrown toenails. Opt for well-fitting footwear with enough room for your toes to breathe and wiggle comfortably. Choose breathable socks made from moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry and prevent excessive sweating.

3. Maintain Proper Foot Hygiene:

Good foot hygiene plays a significant role in preventing ingrown toenails. Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, ensuring you thoroughly clean between your toes. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly before putting on socks or shoes, as moisture promotes fungal growth, which can contribute to nail problems.

4. Avoid Trauma or Injury:

Protecting your toes from trauma or injury is another crucial step in preventing ingrown toenails. Be cautious when engaging in activities where your toes are vulnerable, such as contact sports or heavy lifting exercises without proper footwear support. Accidental stubs or impact can cause the toenail to grow irregularly or press into the surrounding skin.

5. Don’t Neglect Your Feet:

Regular foot inspection and maintenance can help identify early signs of ingrown toenails and minimise their severity. Look out for any changes in your nails’ colour, shape, or texture. If you notice any redness, swelling, or pain near your nailbeds, it’s essential to promptly address and care for them.

6. Consider Orthotics or Toe Separators:

For individuals with structural abnormalities in their feet or toes, orthotic devices such as shoe inserts or splints can help ensure proper alignment and reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. Likewise, using toe separators explicitly designed for this purpose can alleviate pressure on the toes and promote correct nail growth.

7. Avoid Nail Biting:

Nail biting damages the appearance of nails and increases the risk of ingrown toenails. The habit promotes irregular nail growth, leading to potential discomfort and problematic nail positioning. Breaking this habit is crucial for preventing ingrown toenails and maintaining overall nail health.

8. Opt for Open-Toed Footwear When Possible:

While open-toed footwear may not always be suitable or appropriate, opting for it when possible allows air circulation around your toes, reducing moisture build-up and preventing infections and ingrown toenails that often thrive in warm and damp environments.

9. Seek Professional Footcare Assistance:

If you frequently struggle with ingrown toenails despite taking preventive measures at home, seeking professional foot care assistance is highly recommended. A podiatrist can help determine if underlying causes contribute to recurring incidents of ingrown toenails and provide personalised treatment plans based on your specific needs.

10. Maintain a Healthy Diet:

Surprisingly, maintaining a healthy diet can also contribute to overall nail health. Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, along with biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, can strengthen your nails from within. Avoid consuming junk or fried foods with trans fats. Ensuring adequate nutrition aids in preventing nail frailty and susceptibility to ingrown toenails. 

Conclusion:

Following these ten tips for preventing ingrown toenails can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing this common foot problem. Remember to trim your nails correctly, choose comfortable footwear and socks, practice good foot hygiene, avoid trauma or injury, maintain regular foot inspections, consider orthotics or toe separators if needed, break the nail-biting habit if present, opt for open-toed footwear where appropriate, seek professional assistance when necessary, and prioritise a healthy diet that supports overall nail health.