Will My Ingrown Toenail Heal on Its Own?

An ingrown toenail almost always starts as a slight discomfort — a little tenderness and redness at the edge of your toenail. The skin may feel harder and warmer than usual. But does that mean you need to see a doctor? 

The answer depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and how your body responds. While some minor cases improve with basic care, others worsen, leading to pain, swelling, or infection. 

Let’s explore what you can do and when it’s time to seek help.

When to wait and see

In the earliest stages, an ingrown toenail might not need professional intervention. If there’s no swelling, infection, or significant pain, you can try a few home strategies:

Soak your foot

Soaking your foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes a few times a day can soften the skin and reduce irritation. Adding Epsom salts to the water may provide additional relief by helping to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

Avoid tight shoes

Wearing snug or ill-fitting shoes puts pressure on your toenails, which can make an ingrown nail worse. Opt for open-toed sandals or comfortable, roomy footwear to give your toe space to heal without added stress.

Gently separate the nail

Using clean cotton, carefully lift the edge of the ingrown nail to encourage it to grow above the skin rather than into it. Be gentle to avoid worsening the irritation or causing injury.

If the toenail starts growing correctly and the discomfort fades, you’re in the clear and likely don’t need professional treatment. However, if things don’t improve, Hai-En Peng, DPM, FACFAS, can help at Align Foot & Ankle Center in Camarillo, California.

Signs your toenail needs medical attention

Some cases won’t resolve on their own, no matter how much home care you provide — and the earlier you seek treatment, the better. These signs warrant a call to Align Foot & Ankle Center:

• Increased redness, swelling, or warmth 
• Persistent or worsening pain 
• Pus or unusual drainage 
• Recurrent problems (ingrown toenail keeps coming back)

Without treatment, an ingrown toenail can become infected and lead to more serious complications, such as deep tissue infections or bone infections in severe cases. Seeking timely care can help prevent unnecessary pain and long-term damage.

Get effective treatment for ingrown toenails in Camarillo, California

If your ingrown toenail isn’t healing, a podiatrist can help. At Align Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Peng provides expert treatment to relieve pain and prevent complications. Call our office today or schedule a consultation online to find relief fast.