Getting a pedicure will not only add aesthetic benefit to your toenails, but you will also get to discover any abnormality on your toenails. So, in a situation where you want to get a pedicure and show off your beautiful toenails, but oops! You discover it is curling inward. Definitely, you will feel frustrated, and your next line of thought might be, why do toenails curl inward?
You don’t have to feel hopeless, as toenails curl inward as a result of different reasons, like something simple as wearing ill-fitted footwear or due to medical health conditions like diabetes. However, there are still remedies to this condition, so you can still enjoy your pedicure after treatment.
Toenails that curl inward can actually be uncomfortable and even painful. This condition, known as ingrown toenails, occurs when the edges or corners of the toenails grow into the surrounding skin.
In this post, I will give you a detailed explanation of every possible reason why toenails curl inward, with a quick way to fix ingrown toenails and how to prevent the toenails from curling inward, so stay tuned!
What Causes Curved Toenails
Toenails that curl upward are certainly not caused by a single reason. There are a range of factors that can contribute to toenails curling inward, and understanding these causes is essential for prevention and proper care. So let’s take a look at what can make your toenail curl inward:
1. Incorrect nail trimming
One of the most common causes of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming. Cutting toenails too short or at an angle can encourage the nail to curve and pierce the skin.
Nails should be trimmed straight across, with slightly rounded edges. If you have the habit of cutting your toenails, you will discover that your toenails are growing upward.
2. Poor footwear choices
Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those that are too tight in the toe area, is also another activity that can make your toenails grow inward. Tight-fitting shoes can exert pressure on the toenails, thereby pushing them into the skin. This constant compression of the nail is a common cause of ingrown toenails.
3. Toenails injury or trauma
If you are the type of person who gets toenail injury all the time, you might have to pull the trigger for your toenail to curl inward. Any form of damage to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe, dropping something on it, or even repetitive trauma from activities like running, can cause changes in the nail’s growth pattern, making it more likely to grow inward.
4. Genetic predisposition
The shape of your nails, the pattern of your nail growth, and even the shapes of your toes are usually influenced by genetics. Therefore, if your family has a history of ingrown nails, you may have an increased risk of getting this abnormality.
5. Fungal infections
Toenail fungus can alter the shape and texture of the nails. Thickened or distorted nails are more likely to become ingrown. Fungal infections can be caused by exposure to damp environments, inadequate foot hygiene, or other factors.
6. Excessive sweating
Profuse sweating can soften the skin around the toenails, making it easier for the nails to penetrate the skin. This is especially common in individuals who wear closed shoes for extended periods.
7. Diabetes and other health conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can affect blood circulation and nerve function in the feet. These conditions can lead to changes in nail growth and an increased risk of ingrown toenails.
8. Improper foot hygiene
Neglecting proper foot hygiene can create an environment conducive to fungal infections and other factors that contribute to ingrown toenails.
How to Fix Toenails That Curl Inward
Ingrown toenails, where the edges or corners of the toenails curl into the surrounding skin, will definitely cause you pain, discomfort, and sometimes even infection. However, there are quick remedies you can try out to curb the pain.
Fixing toenails that curl inward (ingrown toenails) can often be done at home, but severe cases may require professional medical attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you address ingrown toenails:
Step 1: Soak your feet
Start by soaking your feet in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes. This helps soften the skin and nail, making it easier to manipulate.
Step 2: Gently lift the nail edge
Use clean and sanitised tweezers or cotton dental floss to gently lift the ingrown edge of the nail away from the skin. Be very careful not to force it or cause any pain.
Step 3: Insert a small piece of cotton
After lifting the edge, place a small, clean piece of cotton under the lifted nail. This helps encourage the nail to grow correctly and prevents it from digging into the skin.
Step 4. Apply antibiotic ointment
To prevent infection, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the affected area.
Step 5. Bandage the toe
Protect the area by bandaging your toe to keep the cotton and ointment in place and to prevent dirt or debris from getting in.
Additional Tips for Caring For Ingrown Toenails
- Change the cotton and reapply the ointment on a daily basis. This process may take a few days or weeks to allow the nail to grow properly.
- In the meantime, wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that provide ample room for your toes to avoid any additional pressure on the affected toenail.
- Use pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed.
- Do not attempt to cut the nail at home, as this can lead to infection or worsen the problem. Leave any trimming or cutting to a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Medical Help for Toes Curling Upwards
Although you can try treating your toenails that curl inward at home, some signs point to the fact that you need to seek the treatment of medical personnel to prevent it from growing out of hand or prevent complications. So, if you notice any of the symptoms below, go se your doctor immediately:
- If your ingrown toenail only improves within a few days.
- If it worsens or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).
- If you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes, severe nerve damage, or poor blood circulation, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider or a podiatrist.
They can perform a minor procedure to remove the ingrown part of the nail or provide further treatment, and they can offer guidance on proper foot care to prevent future occurrences.
How Do I Prevent My Toenails from Curling Inwards?
Preventing toenails from curling inward (ingrown toenails) involves adopting good foot care practices. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of getting ingrown toenails:
- Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges. Cutting nails too short or in a curved manner can encourage ingrowth.
- Choose shoes that fit well and provide enough room for your toes. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes and toenails.
- Maintain proper foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry, as excess moisture can soften the skin around the nails, making them more prone to ingrowth.
- Consider using specialized nail care products that can help protect the nails and prevent ingrown toenails. These products often provide a physical barrier between the nail and the surrounding skin.
- Refrain from picking or digging at your toenails, as this can damage the nail and surrounding skin, increasing the risk of ingrowth.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, as overall health can contribute to healthy nail growth.
- If you participate in activities that may pose a risk to your toenails, such as sports, consider wearing protective footwear or equipment.
Taking these preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of ingrown toenails and maintain the health and comfort of your feet. If you do experience persistent or severe ingrown toenails, consult a healthcare professional or a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Final Verdict
Toenails can curl inward for a number of reasons, such as wearing ill-fitting shoes, fungal infections, medical conditions such as diabetes, or genetics. Understanding the causes of ingrown toenails can help you take the necessary steps to prevent this uncomfortable condition.
Moreover, you can quickly carry out a simple home remedy, as I discuss in the post, the moment you discover your toenails are curling inward. Nevertheless, if you experience severe pain, persistent redness, or signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Remember, if ingrown toenails are a recurring issue, professional guidance is advisable to address the root causes and prevent further problems. Ingrown toenails can often be resolved with minor medical procedures, but more severe cases may require surgical intervention.
Also, you can prevent ingrown toenails by adopting good foot care practices. Additionally, if you have a family history of ingrown toenails, are diabetic, or have other medical conditions that affect your feet, be particularly vigilant in preventing ingrowth and seek professional guidance as needed.
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