Ingrown toenails are one of the most common and most painful nail conditions managed by podiatrists in Australia. Despite being incredibly common, many people put up with the pain for far too long before seeking help — or try home remedies that make things worse. Here's what you need to know.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin rather than over it. The big toe is most commonly affected, usually on the outer edge. As the nail penetrates the skin, it causes pain, redness, swelling, and — if left untreated — infection.
What causes ingrown toenails?
- Incorrect nail cutting technique — cutting nails too short or rounding the corners encourages the nail to grow into the skin
- Tight or narrow footwear — squeezes the toes together and forces the nail edge into surrounding skin
- Naturally curved nails — some people have an inherited nail shape that makes ingrown nails more likely regardless of cutting technique
- Trauma — dropping something on the toe or stubbing it can cause the nail to grow abnormally
- Hyperhidrosis — excessive sweating softens the skin, making it easier for the nail to penetrate
The correct way to cut toenails
Cut nails straight across — never curve the corners down. Leave the nail long enough that the edge sits just above the skin on either side. Use a proper toenail clipper rather than scissors, which can cause the nail to split and splinter at the edges.
Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
For mild, early-stage ingrown nails — redness and discomfort but no infection — conservative home management can help:
- Soak the foot in warm salty water for 10–15 minutes twice daily to soften the skin and reduce inflammation
- Gently lift the ingrown nail edge and place a small piece of cotton wool underneath to redirect growth
- Apply antiseptic to prevent infection
- Wear open-toed or wide-toed footwear to reduce pressure
Browse our range of ingrown toenail products including nail softening solutions, packing materials, and antiseptic wound care for at-home management.
When should I see a podiatrist?
- Signs of infection — increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge
- Severe pain affecting your ability to walk
- Diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or poor circulation
- Recurring ingrown nails despite conservative treatment
A podiatrist can perform a nail edge resection under local anaesthetic, or a partial nail avulsion (permanent removal of the nail edge) for recurring cases. Both procedures are straightforward and highly effective.
Nail care tools for healthy toenails
The right tools make correct nail cutting significantly easier. Browse our range of professional nail clippers and files used in Australian podiatry clinics and suitable for home use.
Reviewed by the TBS Health podiatry team — July 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about an ingrown toenail, please consult your podiatrist.