DO:

• Cut nails in a straight line, and avoid cutting them too short (for reference you should be able to slide your nail under the sides and end of the nail without pain.)

• Make sure your shoes and sock are the right sizes. Shoes that are too loose or too tight cause unwanted pressure on the nail. On top of that socks apply pressure and hold moisture so they are an ideal place for fungal infections to join if the ingrown nail has pierced the skin.

• Seek to consult with a doctor about potential treatment options.

DONT:

• Do not cut the nail upward to prevent it from curving downward, this exacerbates the ingrown nail.

• Avoid repeatedly cutting the edges of the nail, cutting the nails repeatedly or too short can change the shape of the nail causing it to grow in another direction.

• Do not place cotton under the nail- this can trap bacteria under the nail or push the nail deeper into the skin if done improperly.

• Avoid topical medicines, ingrown toenails must be removed, these treatment options may give temporary relief.