Soak the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily
Add Epsom salt to the soak if desired
Dry the foot thoroughly after soaking
Gently lift the nail edge with clean dental floss or a small piece of cotton
Place a small amount of cotton or gauze under the nail edge
Change the cotton or gauze daily
Wear roomy shoes or open-toe footwear
Avoid tight socks and pressure on the toe
Keep the toe clean and dry
Trim toenails straight across, not rounded
Avoid cutting nails too short
Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
Apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment if the skin is broken
Avoid digging into the nail or cutting the corner yourself
Seek medical care if there is pus, spreading redness, severe pain, fever, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system
See a podiatrist if the ingrown nail keeps coming back
Consider partial nail removal by a healthcare professional for severe or recurrent cases