Totorus

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Anyone that has experienced ingrown toenails can tell you that they are extremely uncomfortable. Ingrown toenails in addition to being painful can also be unattractive. However, ingrown toenails can be prevented by utilizing proper nail care on a regular basis. In no time you will be pain free and confident in open toe shoes like sandals.

Ingrown toenails are caused by several factors, and in this article I will teach you how to prevent the occurrence of ingrown toenails by teaching you how to properly care for your nails.

A toenail is considered ingrown when either 1 or both sides of the toenail grow into the skin of the toe itself. This typically occurs when the toenail breaks through the skin. The most common cause of ingrown toenails is improper toenail cutting. Proper cutting of the toenails to prevent them from becoming ingrown is an easy way to prevent it from even happening. The proper way to cut a toenail is straight across being sure that you do not cut the toenail too short. If after being cut, the toenail doesn’t reach the length of the edge of the toe it has been cut too short. After cutting your toenails it is always a good idea to file down any potentially sharp edges. Sharp edges on toenails can become snagged on socks and can cause the toenails to become ingrown.

Only trim toenails with proper tools whether it is nail scissors or toenail clippers. Avoid picking toenails off with fingers. Toenails that are ripped off as opposed to being properly cut are more prone to sharp edges which are more likely to become infected and/or ingrown.

Check the fit of your shoes! Wearing shoes that do not fit appropriately are another cause of ingrown toenails. To prevent ingrown toenails, ensure that your toes have ample “wiggle room” and that they are not to snug on your piggies.

While pedicures are a great retreat, they are not always affordable. Treating yourself to a pedicure at home will help to prevent ingrown toenails while giving you an excuse to utilize proper toenail care. To do this, soak your feet in an infusion of warm water with about a ¼ cup of baking soda for as long as you like. Typically 15 minutes will suffice. After you have soaked and towel dried your feet you will find that the toenails are easier to trim. Remember to make sure that when trimming your toenails you are cutting them straight across at the edge of the toe’s length. File down any sharp edges that you may encounter and avoid messing with the sides if the toenail as this only provokes them to become ingrown. These proper toenail care techniques will make your feet soft, and will prevent the occurrence of ingrown toenails.