3 Effective Solutions For Ingrown Toenails

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Having healthy and appealing nails is important for many people, so you may be part of the group who routinely gets manicures at your favorite local salon. Unfortunately, taking time to care for your toenails is also important, especially since ingrown toenails can not only be unattractive, but also painful and dangerous.

Without proper treatment, an ingrown toenail can grow into the skin deeply, allowing dirt and bacteria to enter. This increase the risk of an infection that causes more pain and discomfort. Thankfully, there are effective solutions to treat your ingrown toenail.

Epsom Salt

If you have any interest in healthcare, you should invest in Epsom salt. This natural mineral has many benefits, but you may be surprised by how effective it is for your ingrown toenail.

Fill a tub with warm water. For every gallon of water, add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Place your feet into the tub and allow them to soak for 15 minutes.

The Epsom salt will reduce swelling and inflammation on your feet. This allows the skin to relax, allowing the ingrown nail to move back into its original positioning. The Epsom salt soak also alleviates any pain and discomfort you may be having due to your ingrown nail.

It is best to soak your feet 3 times a week for the most effective anti-inflammatory treatment.

Tea Tree Oil

If you have thick toenails, you are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail. Not only are they more difficult to cut, but the thicker and stronger nail can also penetrate the skin easier than thinner, brittle nails.

Softening the thick nail can reduce the pressure the nail causes to the skin, helping release the nail out of the skin and alleviate your pain.

Every day, apply a few drops of tea tree oil to the ingrown nail. Massage the oil onto the nail and the skin around the nail generously. The tea tree oil also has antifungal properties, which helps reduce the risk of fungal growth and infections.

Professional Assistance

If Epsom salt and tea tree oil do not help your ingrown toenail, visit a professional, such as a foot doctor/podiatrist.

In most cases, the doctor will have the tools and skills needed to cut the ingrown nail without causing you further discomfort. If necessary, antibiotics and antifungal medications will also be prescribed if your doctor believes the nail has become infected.

Ingrown toenails are more painful than many people realize. This guide will help you treat ingrown toenails in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

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