The Harvard expert explains what to do to avoid infections caused by ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails may be small, but they are uncomfortable and often painful. They occur when the skin around the nail becomes dry, cracked, or damaged. Despite the name, it is not part of the nail itself, but rather the skin surrounding it.
Jennifer Fisher, a health writer at Harvard and certified healthcare practitioner, explains that the main causes of ingrown toenails include dryness, frequent exposure to water or chemicals, and habits such as biting your nails or manipulating the surrounding skin.
How to treat at home?
According to Fisher, home treatment is simple. Start by soaking your hands in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes to soften your skin.
Use sterilized scissors or forceps to carefully cut the loose piece of skin. Avoid pulling on the skin as this may cause further damage. After removal, apply a moisturizer or antibacterial ointment to protect the area.
If the area is painful or bleeding, cover it with a bandage until it heals.
Prevention is the best medicine
Keeping your skin hydrated is key to avoiding ingrown toenails. Jennifer recommends using specific hand creams, especially after washing them. “Wear gloves when handling cleaning products or in activities that require prolonged contact with water. Also, avoid biting your nails or cutting your cuticles, and keep your nails clean and trimmed.
When to see a doctor?
If the ingrown toenail turns into an infection – characterized by redness, swelling, pain or the presence of pus – it is important to contact your doctor. Untreated infections can worsen, causing more serious complications.
With simple care and attention to the health of your nails you can avoid the discomfort of ingrown nails and keep your hands beautiful and healthy.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
