Pedicure Gone Wrong? How to Safely Prevent and Treat Ingrown Toenails at Home

 

Pedicure Gone Wrong? How to Safely Prevent and Treat Ingrown Toenails at Home

It was supposed to be a relaxing afternoon — a cup of coffee, soft music, and a soothing pedicure at my favourite salon. But within days, what began as self-care turned into a painful ordeal. My toe became red, swollen, and tender, and each step reminded me that something had gone terribly wrong. The culprit? An ingrown toenail. This experience taught me a vital lesson about how to safely prevent and treat ingrown toenails at home, especially after a pedicure.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes even infection. Most commonly, it affects the big toe, and the discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe throbbing pain.

Pedicures, while pampering, can contribute to this issue if nails are trimmed too short or curved at the edges. Improper nail care tools, tight footwear, or even genetic predisposition can worsen the condition. Understanding this helps you recognise the importance of proper foot hygiene and safe nail care at home.

While professional pedicures feel luxurious, they can sometimes cause more harm than good when not done carefully. During my salon visit, the technician rounded the corners of my nails and removed cuticles aggressively — both of which increased my risk.

Common pedicure mistakes include:

• Cutting nails too short or curved

• Not sanitising tools properly, leading to infection

• Forcing cuticle removal, exposing delicate skin

• Skipping post-pedicure foot care

To avoid this, always choose salons with proper hygiene standards, and request your nails be cut straight across. After all, a little precaution can save a lot of pain.

If you’re already experiencing symptoms, don’t panic. Most mild cases of ingrown toenails can be treated at home with gentle, consistent care. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Soak Your Feet in Warm Salt Water

Soaking your feet for 15–20 minutes in warm water mixed with Epsom salt helps reduce inflammation and soften the nail. This not only eases pain but also makes it easier to lift the nail edge later.

2. Gently Lift the Nail Edge

After soaking, carefully lift the corner of the nail using a clean cotton ball or dental floss. Replace it daily to allow the nail to grow above the skin edge instead of into it.

3. Apply an Antiseptic Ointment

To prevent infection, apply antibiotic cream or tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic, on the affected area. Cover it with a breathable bandage.

4. Wear Open-Toed or Loose Shoes

Avoid pressure on your toes by wearing sandals or soft footwear until the area heals.

5. Use Pain Relief if Needed

If the pain persists, an over-the-counter pain reliever like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort.

Natural healing can make a difference in keeping your nails healthy. Consider these natural remedies for ingrown toenails that work wonders over time:

• Apple cider vinegar soaks help reduce bacteria and soften the skin.

• Coconut oil keeps the area moisturised and promotes healing.

• Aloe vera gel soothes redness and helps the skin recover naturally.

Using these regularly can help prevent recurrence and restore the natural beauty of your toes.

Preventing future problems is easier than enduring pain later. Follow these simple but effective steps to prevent ingrown toenails after a pedicure:

1. Cut nails straight across — avoid rounding the corners.

2. Don’t trim nails too short, as it encourages the edges to grow inward.

3. Use clean tools or bring your own set to the salon.

4. Moisturise your feet daily to keep the skin around the nails soft.

5. Avoid tight shoes that squeeze your toes.

6. Let your nails breathe — skip nail polish occasionally to prevent fungal growth.

These preventive steps ensure every pedicure remains a pleasant self-care experience instead of a painful one.

Sometimes, home remedies may not be enough.

If your toe becomes severely red, swollen, or oozes pus, it may be infected. Seek medical help immediately, as untreated infections can spread and cause serious issues, especially for people with diabetes or circulation problems.

A podiatrist may need to remove part of the nail or prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection safely. Timely care can prevent complications and restore your comfort quickly.

My painful pedicure experience turned into a valuable lesson in self-care and awareness. Ingrown toenails may seem minor, but they can cause significant discomfort if ignored. By learning how to safely prevent and treat ingrown toenails at home, you can enjoy your pedicure moments without fear.

Read More:

• How Effective is Lemon Juice and Baking Soda for Treating Nail Discolouration
• Can an Advanced Probiotic Mix Help Prevent Common Toenail Issues Like Fungal Infections

Always remember — beautiful feet start with healthy care, not just polished nails. Treat your toes gently, listen to your body, and take the time to heal them with love.