What should I do if my toenail grows into the skin?

When a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it is medically termed “ingrown toenail” (onychocryptosis), which frequently leads to paronychia—a bacterial infection of the nail fold and adjacent soft tissues. Paronychia manifests with purulent discharge, subungual abscess formation, and separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. As the condition progresses, localized redness, swelling, and pain intensify significantly, often necessitating professional medical intervention—such as partial or complete nail avulsion—at a qualified hospital. So, what should one do when a toenail becomes ingrown? Below, we address this question in detail.

What to Do for an Ingrown Toenail

1. Warm Soaks

Soaking the affected foot in warm water is a common initial approach. Prepare approximately 100 mL of vinegar and add it to a basin containing warm water at about 45°C. Soak the foot for several minutes until the toenail feels slightly softened. Additionally, individuals who habitually trim their nails excessively short should exercise moderation. After trimming, disinfect the area with iodophor solution.

2. Pharmacological Treatment

Pharmacological interventions may be employed for early-stage ingrown toenails. Topical or oral antibiotics can effectively suppress bacterial growth and provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. For instance, anti-inflammatory analgesics help alleviate pain and swelling, particularly during severe discomfort. Topical urea ointment softens both the surrounding skin and the nail itself, facilitating correction. Silver nitrate application causes minimal pain, typically requires no anesthesia, flattens granulation tissue, and inhibits purulent and serous exudation.

3. Surgical Intervention

Surgical management is indicated for recurrent or severe cases. Under local anesthesia, incision and drainage are performed. In deep infections, the proximal one-third of the nail plate may be lifted to ensure adequate drainage and promote resolution of inflammation. Alternative approaches include traditional Chinese medicine therapies—such as topical herbal applications or medicinal foot soaks—as well as conventional podiatric techniques. These methods generally carry minimal side effects and demonstrate good efficacy in resolving inflammation.

The above outlines practical management strategies for ingrown toenails. Patients are advised to wear breathable footwear regularly and avoid prolonged use of tight, non-ventilated shoes—especially leather shoes—as poor foot ventilation increases susceptibility to paronychia. We hope this information proves helpful.