How to prevent and treat an ingrown toenail: Footcare experts Excilor offer guidance

Foot and nailcare experts at Excilor.com are experienced in offering  bespoke treatments for nail fungus, warts and verrucas – and they are also turning their thoughts to advice on ingrown toenails.

That hobbling big toe, which causes such pain every time you put on a shoe, could be a thing of the past; or even avoided altogether, according to the advice from the experts at Excilor.

What is an ingrown nail and how does it happen?

An ingrown toenail is one that becomes embedded in the flesh, which in turn causes inflammation.

This can happen through various reasons: -

Badly cut toenails -  the best way to cut your types is by a square shape, and a little overhang over your toes. If it is too short, skin can grow over the cut.

Incorrect shoe sizes -  if you have tight shoes they will put pressure on your toes, squeezing them. Tight shoes can also make your feet sweat, which isn’t good as it can also encourage the development of fungus.

Some health conditions  - diabetes could affect the health of your toes, reducing blood flow

Health in your feet -  Bunions, osteoarthritis and corns could impact on the potential of developing an ingrown toenail

Can you treat an ingrown toenail at home?

Excilor’s advice is yes, you can treat an ingrown toenail by yourself if it hasn’t become infected with pus and the pain is bearable.

If you’re at home you can: -

• Bathe your foot in hot water at least three times a day
• Keep your toe exposed to the air as much as possible
• Wear cotton socks
• Avoid compressing your toe with tightly-fitting shoes, stockings or tights

The other treatments you may need for an ingrown toenail

If you’re in any doubt about treatment, never put off seeking medical help and advice. This is especially if your toenail is very inflamed, has pus and is bleeding.

Call the NHS helpline 111; or seek help from your GP or a podiatrist.

Pharmacists or GPs can support with antiseptics or antibiotics. A podiatrist can offer various treatments and solutions, some of which may take several months.

For more details of recognising and treating an ingrown toenail, or to avoid one developing, go to the advice page at Excilor.com.

Excilor’s products for specific hand and foot health needs are available online including at Amazon, Boots and Superdrug.

The claims within this article are not necessarily those of National World and its associated websites. Those seeking medical advice are advised to contact the NHS.