Ingrown nails are a common mishap that occur when our nails begin to grow into the skin, and therefore become ingrown. Our nails are made up of a protein known as keratin. The keratin produces layers of its cells which push itself to the surface of our finger and form ridges under the skin to help keep the nail in place. As your nail shape changes, the ridge that holds the nail in place can sometimes lose the attachment. This connection loss is what causes the nails to then grow into the sides of the skin, thus classifying as an ingrown nail.

So how does this occur exactly? Well there are a number of ways for an ingrown nail to form, of the most common are fungal nail infections, trauma/injury, frequent biting of the nail, improper cutting of the nail, and rapid or decreased nail growth.

Ingrown nails can become increasingly painful and cause redness and swelling. If you feel that you may have one, visit a specialist that can help you weigh out what your options are.