Things You'll Need

Instructions

How to Cure Ingrown Nails

1

Begin a daily regimen of soaking the affected foot or hand three times a day in warm water. Many people find that adding about 1 cup of Epsom salts to the water helps relieve swelling and tenderness. Let your ingrown nail soak for about 30 minutes.
2

Massage the affected area. Once your skin is softened from your soak, gently massage the skin right around the ingrown nail. Massaging often helps reduce inflammation.
3

Make a poultice of one part medicinal clay to three parts water. Mix thoroughly until you have an even paste. Spread the paste over a piece of fresh gauze and gently place it directly on the ingrown nail. Secure the gauze with a clean bandage. Leave the clay poultice on for at least two hours before rinsing. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel.
4

Dab a little bit of tea tree oil on the affected area. Tea tree oil contains antibiotic, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. Let the ingrown nail dry for a few minutes, and then apply a bandage to protect it from moisture and more trauma. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, put on a pair of clean, dry socks.
5

Take a pain reliever. Ibuprofen can reduce the pain and inflammation of an ingrown nail.
6

Know when to see your doctor. Follow the above steps for three to four days. If the pain, swelling and redness has not disappeared by then, it is time to hobble off to see your doctor. The doctor will probably prescribe you with an antibiotic to cure any infection. You might have to undergo a simple, in-office surgical procedure to remove part or all of your ingrown nail.
7

Take preventative measures to keep from getting another ingrown nail. Use nail clippers to cut straight across the nail. This prevents the corners of your nails from being cut too short, which is the most common cause of ingrown nails. Avoid wearing tight, poorly fitting shoes, because they can rub against your feet and cause toenails to grow into your skin. Moisturize your feet and hands every night before going to bed. Keeping the skin soft and moist can also help prevent ingrown nails.