Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Ingrown Toenail Pain

Ingrown toenails can be surprisingly painful for something so small. Whether you have just noticed a tender spot along the edge of your big toe or you are dealing with a swollen, red and sore nail that hurts with every step, ingrown toenails are a common problem that can disrupt everyday comfort. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to relieve the pain at home and prevent it from becoming more serious.

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation, inflammation and, in some cases, infection. While anyone can develop an ingrown toenail, they are particularly common in teenagers, runners, people with sweaty feet, and those who wear tight shoes or trim their nails incorrectly.

If caught early, an ingrown toenail can often be managed at home. Knowing what to do and when to seek medical help can make all the difference in easing the pain and promoting healing.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

The most common cause of an ingrown toenail is improper nail trimming. Cutting the nails too short or curving them at the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin rather than straight across. Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow or pointy can put pressure on the toes and worsen the issue. Repeated trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it or taking part in sports that involve sudden stops and turns, can also contribute.

Some people have naturally curved toenails that are more likely to become ingrown. Sweaty feet and poor foot hygiene can soften the skin around the toenail and increase the risk of it becoming embedded.

Recognising the Symptoms

An ingrown toenail often begins with mild tenderness or pressure along one side of the nail, usually on the big toe. As the nail presses further into the skin, pain tends to increase. You may notice redness, swelling and warmth around the nail. In some cases, a small amount of pus or clear fluid may be present, indicating that the area has become infected. Walking, wearing shoes or even touching the toe can become increasingly uncomfortable.

If pain becomes severe, the toe becomes very swollen or signs of infection appear, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

How to Relieve Ingrown Toenail Pain at Home

If your ingrown toenail is in the early stages and not showing signs of infection, there are several steps you can take at home to reduce pain and support healing.

Start by soaking your foot in warm water for around 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times a day. Adding a handful of Epsom salts or plain table salt can help reduce swelling and soften the skin around the nail. This makes it easier for the nail to grow out naturally and lessens the discomfort.

After soaking, gently dry the area and apply an antiseptic solution or antibacterial cream to reduce the risk of infection. You can then place a small piece of clean cotton or dental floss under the edge of the nail to help lift it away from the skin. This should only be done gently and with clean hands or tools. The aim is not to dig into the nail bed but to encourage the nail to grow in the right direction.

Wearing open-toed or loose-fitting shoes while the nail heals will prevent additional pressure on the toe. Keeping your feet clean and dry throughout the day also helps prevent further irritation.

Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease soreness and reduce inflammation if needed. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a pharmacist if you are unsure.

What to Avoid

It can be tempting to try to cut the nail yourself to relieve the pressure, but this often makes things worse. Cutting the nail down the side or digging into the skin can increase the risk of infection and lead to more pain. Avoid using sharp instruments on the toe unless advised by a podiatrist or healthcare professional.

Tight shoes, high heels and restrictive socks should be avoided while your toe is healing. They can worsen swelling and delay recovery.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should speak to your GP or a podiatrist if your toe becomes increasingly red, swollen or painful, if there is discharge or if you have signs of infection such as warmth, pus or a fever. People with diabetes, poor circulation or a weakened immune system should seek prompt advice at the first sign of an ingrown toenail, as they are at greater risk of complications.

A healthcare professional may lift or trim the nail properly, prescribe a short course of antibiotics if there is infection or refer you to a podiatrist for further care. In more persistent or severe cases, a minor surgical procedure can be carried out under local anaesthetic to remove part or all of the toenail and stop it from growing back into the skin.

How to Prevent Future Ingrown Toenails

Prevention often begins with how you cut your nails. Trim them straight across rather than curving at the edges and avoid cutting them too short. Use clean nail scissors or clippers and avoid tearing or picking at the nails. If you are unsure how to cut them properly, a podiatrist can demonstrate a safe method.

Choose footwear that fits well, with enough space for your toes to move. Avoid narrow or pointy shoes, particularly if you are on your feet for long periods. Keeping your feet clean, dry and aired can also reduce the risk of future issues.

If you take part in activities that put your feet under pressure, such as running or dancing, make sure your footwear is supportive and appropriate for the sport.

Final Thoughts

An ingrown toenail may seem minor at first, but the discomfort it causes can quickly escalate if left untreated. Thankfully, early care with warm soaks, proper hygiene, gentle lifting of the nail and pain relief can often ease symptoms and prevent further problems. If the pain becomes more severe or you notice signs of infection, do not hesitate to speak to a GP or podiatrist.

Looking after your feet with regular checks, good footwear and careful nail care can go a long way in preventing future flare-ups. With the right approach, most ingrown toenails can be relieved quickly and healed completely.