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How to Cut an Ingrown Toenail

Cutting an ingrown toenail can be difficult, which is why I recommend that you’re very careful and have some help if you choose to do it at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. First, soak your feet in warm water mixed with either epsom salt or Castile soap for about 20 minutes to help soften the toenail and skin and reduce any swelling.
  2. Next, using clean fingers, push back the swollen skin carefully. This will likely be uncomfortable. Don’t force it back more than the swollen skin allows.
  3. Now, you need to cut the nail straight across. Start with the edges of the toenail, cutting the nail from the sides, not from the middle.
  4. Place a small piece of cotton between the ingrown nail and skin. This helps the ingrown toenail from coming back, allowing it to grow correctly.
  5. Apply the ointment in the recipe below to the affected area, and bandage it carefully.
  6. To help with healing, avoid wearing socks and shoes while at home. Wear flip-flops or some shoe that avoids dirt but allows open air.
  7. It’s important to prevent infection by changing the cotton daily, maybe even twice a day.

Homemade Ingrown Toenail Ointment Recipe

You can make your very own ointment to help heal an ingrown toenail. Essential oils can help relieve pain and prevent infection. By putting this ointment directly on your toe, you can find some much-needed relief and and faster healing.


  • 5 drops eucalyptus oil
  • 5 drops tea tree oil
  • 1 drop oregano oil
  • 5 drops lavender oil
  • 2 drops peppermint oil
  • 2 ounces aloe vera gel
  • 2 ounces coconut oil


  1. Place all ingredients in a small glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  2. Using a small spoon, stir until well-blended.
  3. After careful cleansing and rinsing of the toe, apply the ointment on the area.
  4. Allow it to air dry, if possible, by wearing flip-flops. If not, carefully and loosely bandage the toe, but make sure to wear loose-fitting shoes.
  5. Redress the area two to three times per day. Make sure to wash the hands after and avoid the eyes, especially when using oregano oil. Oregano is a natural antibiotic but can be very strong giving a burning sensation. It’s important to use these oils as prescribed, with a carrier oil such as the coconut oil.

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