How to know whether ingrown nails will heal on their own

Ingrown nails are very common. Both sides of the nails grow into the flesh, which is painful and unbearable. Will it heal itself? If not, how can it be treated? We have collected answers to various related questions for you, let’s read on together!

Question1: Can ingrown nails heal itself?

Mild ingrown nails may heal on their own.
If your toenails are red and slightly swollen, but are not infected, you may not need to see a doctor. You can wait for the nails to grow out on their own.
If ingrown nails are not treated, they may become infected. Unless it is very mild, it is best to see a doctor.
In the mild or early stage of ingrown nails, the surrounding skin will be a bit red and painful.
In the second or middle stage, the swelling will increase and there may be pus or discharge.
Entering the third or severe stage, the affected area becomes infected, with increased redness and pain, accompanied by secretions.

Question2: How long does it take for the ingrown nails to grow out?

Through self-care, it takes about 2 weeks for the ingrown nails to grow out.
A study of healthy young adults found that the average toenails are 1.62 millimeters per month. Toenails grow slower than fingernails. In addition, healthy nails grow faster than damaged or ingrown nails.
Most experts suggest not to wait for the ingrown nails to grow out on their own, and it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Question3: How to treat ingrown nails at home?

1. Soak your feet in warm water.

Soak the affected area with warm water 3-4 times a day for 15-20 minutes each time. This helps soften the skin and nails, reducing pain and swelling.
You can add mild soap or Epsom salt to the water.
Dry your feet thoroughly afterwards. Put on sweat-wicking socks and breathable shoes.

2. If the situation worsens, apply antibacterial ointment.

If you find that the affected area is getting red and swollen, applying an antibacterial ointment may help prevent infection. After soaking your feet, dry your feet, and then apply over-the-counter antibacterial ointment to the affected area. You can also wrap the affected area with a bandage.

3. Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes.

Shoes that are too tight or pinched toes can cause and aggravate ingrown nails. If you already have problems with ingrown nails, try to wear sandals or other open-toed shoes. If you need to wear covered shoes, make sure that your toes have plenty of room for movement.

4. Don’t stuff cotton under the nails.

Many websites recommend stuffing cotton under the nails and raising the corners on both sides to prevent the nails from growing into the flesh. However, the American Association of Foot and Ankle Surgeons opposed this. Cotton will become a breeding ground for bacteria, and ingrown nails will be more susceptible to infection.

Question4: Should the ingrown nails be lifted out?

Never do this.
Cutting off the nails or removing the skin covering the nails can worsen the problem and may cause infection. Don’t try to lift the ingrown nails yourself. If you need to cut your nails, you must carefully cut them into a straight shape.

Question5: When do you need medical treatment?

1. If home remedies are not effective, it is recommended to see a doctor.

After 2-3 days, if the condition of the ingrown nails does not improve, it is best to see a podiatrist. They will judge at which stage the nail ingrown is in, and then decide the most appropriate treatment plan.

2. If your toenails are infected, you must also see a doctor.

Ingrown nails are easily infected, and infections require medical treatment. If the ingrown nails become red, swollen, and painful, accompanied by pus or other secretions, seek medical attention as soon as possible and ask the doctor to prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

3. If you have diabetes or other diseases, you should also see a doctor.

If you have poor blood circulation, nerve problems in your legs or feet, or have diabetes, do not treat ingrown nails at home. See a general practitioner or podiatrist immediately.

Question6: How would a podiatrist treat ingrown nails?

In most cases, the podiatrist will remove part of the toenails.
The treatment method varies according to the location and severity of the nail ingrown. Generally, before removing the infected or ingrown toenails, the podiatrist will first anaesthetize the affected area. Then apply a solution to the root of the toenail to prevent the removed nail from growing back again.
After the treatment, most doctors will recommend that you soak your feet with diarrhea salt twice a day. Add 1-3 tablespoons of Epsom salt to 1 liter of water.
Keep your feet and nails clean and fresh, and wear comfortable, spacious shoes.

Question7: Can ingrown nails be prevented?

In many cases, ingrown nails can be prevented.
Some people are more prone to ingrown nails due to genetic reasons. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce the chance of ingrown nails, including:
Trim your nails into a straight shape, with no rounded corners on both sides, or too long, just a little bit beyond the skin.
Wear spacious shoes with plenty of room for movement on the toes.
Avoid injuries to your toes.
Do not pull or tear off the corners on both sides of the toes.