Should a falling toenail be pulled out or left to fall off on its own?

In general, whether a toenail needs to be removed should be determined based on specific circumstances. In most cases, when nail loss is caused by trauma or pressure, there's no need for forced removal—the nail can be left in place to fall off naturally. However, if there are signs of infection, ingrown nails, or severe separation of the nail from the nail bed, professional medical treatment is required.

When a toenail becomes loose due to minor injury or tight footwear, but the nail bed remains undamaged and there are no signs of infection, it is recommended to leave the nail in place so it can detach naturally. A loosened nail helps protect the new nail growing underneath and reduces external irritation and the risk of infection. Avoid strenuous physical activities during this period; as the new nail gradually grows, the old one will shed on its own.

If toenail loss is accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, or pus discharge, or if the shedding results from conditions like ingrown nails or fungal infections (onychomycosis), self-treatment is not advised. Attempting to forcibly remove the nail in these situations may worsen tissue damage. Instead, a healthcare professional should clean the affected area, control the infection, and provide appropriate treatment before addressing any loose nail.

Routinely maintain clean and dry feet, wear loose, breathable shoes, and avoid pressing on the affected area. Toenails should not be trimmed too short to prevent injury to the nail bed. If abnormalities such as discoloration or thickening occur, promptly adjust care practices to create a favorable environment for healthy nail growth.