How to Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home: Safe Tips and Natural Remedies

Redness, swelling, or maybe even pus?

You may be suffering from an ingrown toenail , a common but often painful condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin.

Mild cases can be treated at home, but it is important to act early – before infection occurs.

The good news?
A visit to the doctor isn’t always necessary.
With simple baths, proper care, and natural methods , you can often relieve pain and speed healing —right from the bathroom.

Let’s take a look at safe and effective ways to treat an ingrown toenail at home —and when you should seek help from a specialist.

🤕 What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the corner or side of a toenail—usually the big toe— digs into the surrounding soft skin.

This causes:

• Pain and tenderness
• Redness and swelling
• Warmth in the fingers
• In more advanced cases: infection, pus or bleeding

🔍 Common triggers:

• Cutting nails too short or rounded
• Tight shoes or socks
• Uraz palca u nogi
• Fungal nail infections
• Genetics (curved or wide nails)