How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can start as a small irritation, but without proper care, they can quickly turn painful or infected. The good news is that many ingrown nails are preventable with a few simple habits and early attention.

At Summit Foot + Ankle, we help patients protect their nail health and avoid complications that interfere with daily comfort and mobility.

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What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This most often affects the big toe and can lead to redness, swelling, and pain.

Common causes include:

• Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges
• Wearing tight or narrow shoes
• Repetitive pressure from sports or activity
• Naturally curved or thick nails
• Trauma to the toe

Those with diabetes or circulation issues are especially vulnerable, as even minor nail problems can go unnoticed and progress quickly.

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Simple Ways to Prevent Ingrown Nails

Preventing ingrown toenails starts with everyday care and awareness. A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your toenails healthy and pain-free.

Trim Your Toenails the Right Way

Proper trimming is one of the most effective prevention steps. Ensure you:

• Cut nails straight across
• Avoid rounding the corners
• Don’t cut nails too short
• Use clean, sharp nail clippers

If you have trouble trimming your nails safely, a podiatrist can help. Professional foot and nail care reduces the risk of injury or infection.

Choose Shoes That Protect Nail Health

Footwear plays a bigger role in nail health than many people realize. Shoes that are too tight can press the nail into the skin. Over time, as the nail grows, the edges can grow into the skin, resulting in discomfort and an ingrown nail.

Look for shoes that:

• Have a wide toe box
• Allow toes to lie flat
• Don’t rub or crowd the toenails

This is especially important for athletes and people who spend long hours on their feet.

Practice Daily Foot and Nail Care

Healthy feet support healthy toenails. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, consistent foot hygiene is key to maintaining long-term nail health. 

Daily habits help prevent irritation and nail infection:

• Wash feet daily with mild soap
• Dry thoroughly, especially between toes
• Keep nails clean and dry
• Inspect nails regularly for changes

Address Nail Fungus Early

Fungal infections can thicken or distort nails, increasing the likelihood of ingrown edges. Some nail fungus types cause nails to become brittle or crumbly, making them harder to trim correctly.

If you notice discoloration, thickening, or crumbling, professional evaluation is recommended. Treating fungus early can reduce pressure on the surrounding skin and prevent recurring ingrown nails.

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Signs an Ingrown Toenail Is Becoming a Nail Infection

An ingrown toenail should never be ignored. If left untreated, symptoms can worsen and lead to an infection. 

Signs of infection include:

• Increasing redness or swelling
• Warmth around the toe
• Drainage or pus
• Throbbing pain

Untreated nail infections can spread, especially in individuals with diabetes or compromised circulation.

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Who Is at Higher Risk for Ingrown Toenails?

While anyone is at risk for ingrown toenails, certain groups should be especially cautious. If you fall into any of the categories below, routine podiatric care can help prevent complications before they start.

• Individuals with diabetes or nerve damage
• Athletes and runners
• Individuals with thick or curved nails
• Individuals with circulation problems

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How Summit Foot + Ankle Can Help

At Summit Foot + Ankle, our providers bring more than 125 years of combined experience to caring for patients with toenail concerns. We offer personalized treatment plans that may include conservative care, infection management, or in-office procedures when needed.

Learn more about our approach to treating and preventing ingrown toenails on our
Ingrown Toenail Treatment page.

With over 30,000 visits each year, our team is a trusted partner in lifelong foot and ankle health.

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Don’t Ignore Toenail Pain

Ingrown toenails don’t have to disrupt your life. Early care can prevent infection, reduce pain, and protect your overall foot health.

Schedule an appointment with Summit Foot + Ankle to keep your feet comfortable, healthy, and active.