Soak the toe in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily
Add Epsom salt to the soak if desired
Keep the toe clean and dry between soaks
Wear roomy shoes or open-toe footwear
Avoid tight socks and pressure on the toe
Gently lift the nail edge with clean cotton or dental floss if it is not too painful
Change the cotton or floss daily
Trim toenails straight across, not curved
Do not cut the nail too short
Avoid picking, digging, or cutting into the nail corner
Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment if the skin is broken
Use a bandage to protect the toe if needed
Take over-the-counter pain relievers if appropriate
See a podiatrist if pain is severe or the ingrown nail keeps coming back
Seek medical care if there is pus, spreading redness, swelling, fever, or worsening pain
Seek urgent care if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system