Have you ever experienced an ingrown toenail? If so, you know how painful and embarrassing it can be. But what if there was a natural remedy that could help take away the pain and alleviate the problem? Does apple cider vinegar help ingrown toenails?
I’m going to let you know how apple cider vinegar can help or harm an ingrown nail, and which natural home remedies can help you with the discomfort that comes with an ingrown nail (trust me, I’ve been there!).
What Is An Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail, usually on the big toe, grows into the skin surrounding the nail.
This can result in pain, redness, and swelling, making it uncomfortable to walk or wear shoes.
Ingrown toenails happen when the toenail curves and digs into the nearby skin, which can lead to inflammation or even an infection.
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- Pain and tenderness along the edge of the toenail
- Redness around the affected area
- Swelling of the toe
- Possible pus or drainage if the area becomes infected
Various factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail. These factors may include improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or even a genetic predisposition to curved toenails.
It’s essential to take preventive measures, such as cutting your toenails straight across and wearing comfortable shoes with ample toe space.
Why Do We Get Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails can be quite painful and occur when your toenail starts to grow into the surrounding skin.
There are several factors that contribute to ingrown toenails, and by understanding these causes, you can work to prevent them and maintain good foot health.
One of the primary causes of ingrown toenails is wearing tight-fitting shoes.
When you wear shoes that are too tight, your toes are pushed together, and this pressure on the toenails can cause them to grow into the surrounding skin.
It’s important to wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes to move freely to avoid this problem.
Poor foot hygiene plays a role in the development of ingrown toenails. Sweaty feet create a moist environment that can soften the skin around the toenails, making it easier for the nail to penetrate the skin as it grows.
Make sure you wash your feet regularly and wear breathable shoes and socks to help keep your feet dry.
Another factor contributing to ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming. Cutting your toenails too short or at an angle increases the likelihood of the nail growing into the skin.
To prevent this issue, cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. This allows the nail to grow properly without the risk of embedding itself into the skin.
Lastly, toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe or injuring it during sports, can lead to ingrown toenails.
Protecting your feet from injury and being mindful of your foot health can help treat and prevent ingrown toenails, and help reduce the risk of nail issues, like severe ingrown nails.
What Are The Common Ingrown Toenail Remedies?
When dealing with ingrown toenails, it’s important to know your options to treat an ingrown toenail.
Luckily, there are many home remedies that can help you treat ingrown toenails right in the comfort of your own home.
First, you can try soaking your affected foot in warm soapy water mixed with Epsom salt. This not only helps to soften the skin and nail, but it also aids in reducing inflammation and swelling.
It is recommended to soak your foot for about 15–20 minutes, three times a day, until the pain begins to subside.
Another popular remedy to treat your ingrown toenails is the use of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can help with the inflammation surrounding the ingrown toenail.
Dilute one-quarter cup of apple cider vinegar in a basin of warm water and soak your foot in the solution. This mixture can help fight off bacteria and reduce the pain associated with ingrown toenails.
To help alleviate pressure from your ingrown toenail, consider using toe protectors or padding.
These can be easily found at your local pharmacy and can be placed around the affected toe to help keep it separated from your other toes and shoe pressure.
Proper home care is essential to prevent further foot problems and promote healing.
Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes which can worsen the condition. Also, remember to cut your toenails straight across to help prevent future ingrown toenails from occurring.
Lastly, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease both pain and swelling related to ingrown toenails.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Ingrown Toenails?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known to help with numerous health issues, and ingrown toenails are no exception. It has certain properties that make it an effective home remedy for this common foot problem.
Apple cider vinegar has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce the pain and swelling caused by ingrown toenails.
Inflammation is one of the primary symptoms of this condition, and applying ACV can provide relief.
Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can protect the ingrown toenail from bacterial or fungal infections, which is essential for preventing complications and promoting healing.
Apple cider vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant. By applying ACV directly to the ingrown toenail using a cotton ball, you can keep the area clean and potentially reduce the risk of infection.
This can help to accelerate the healing process and make your affected skin less irritated.
To use apple cider vinegar for an ingrown toenail, follow these simple steps:
- Dilute the ACV with a little water to create a 50/50 mixture.
- Soak a cotton ball in the mixture.
- Gently apply the soaked cotton ball to the affected area, allowing the ACV to work its magic.
Remember to be consistent with this treatment and apply it several times per day. As with many home remedies, results may vary, and it may take some time before you notice an improvement.
Can Soaking Your Foot In Warm Water And Apple Cider Vinegar Help Ingrown Toenails At Home?
Mild cases of ingrown toenails are a common issue that can sometimes be treated at home.
Soaking your foot in warm water and apple cider vinegar is one home remedy that may help alleviate some of the pain caused by ingrown toenails and reduce the risk of infection.
Here’s how this treatment can help and how to make the soak at home.
Warm water and apple cider vinegar can help soften the surrounding skin and make it easier to lift the ingrown part of the toenail.
This may help with pain and also reduce swelling in your toe. Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties, which can help lower the risk of infection.
To prepare the foot soak, fill a basin with warm water, ensuring it’s not too hot. Then, mix in one cup of apple cider vinegar.
You can also consider adding Epsom salt to the soak for added benefits. Epsom salt can help reduce swelling and further soften the skin surrounding the affected toenail.
Once your foot soak is ready, submerge your foot in the warm water and apple cider vinegar solution for about 10 to 15 minutes daily.
This should help with pain, and over time, potentially improve the condition of your ingrown toenail.
Remember, while this treatment can help with mild cases of ingrown toenails, severe or infected ingrown toenails may require medical intervention.
If you experience persistent pain, worsening symptoms, or signs of infection, make sure to see your doctor.
They may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, oral antibiotics, or other ingrown toenail treatments to address the issue.
How To Relieve Ingrown Toenail Pain
Dealing with an ingrown toenail can be both painful and frustrating. Thankfully, there are several ways you can relieve the pain at home. Here are some helpful tips to ease the discomfort caused by ingrown toenails.
Firstly, try soaking your foot in a basin of warm water for about 20 minutes, three times a day.
This can help soften the skin around the ingrown toenail and reduce swelling and pain. Remember to dry your feet thoroughly after every soak to prevent any infection.
You can also use apple cider vinegar as a treatment option for alleviating pain caused by ingrown toenails.
Simply mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, and soak your foot in the solution for about 20 minutes.
Apple cider vinegar is known for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which may help with easing the pain and preventing infection.
Another effective relief method is to apply hydrogen peroxide to the affected area. Mix half a cup of hydrogen peroxide in water and soak your feet in the mixture for about 20 minutes.
This can help relieve your pain almost instantly. However, avoid applying hydrogen peroxide directly on the toenail as it may damage healthy skin tissue.
If over-the-counter pain relievers are your preferred choice, you can take medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
How To Reduce Swelling Of Ingrown Nails
Ingrown toenails can be quite painful and cause redness, swelling, and even pus or discharge. Here are a few ways on how you can reduce the swelling and discomfort caused by ingrown toenails.
First, try a foot soak with apple cider vinegar. Simply mix a cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water and soak your affected foot for about 15–20 minutes.
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort. This can be done a couple of times per day, as needed.
Remember to dry your feet thoroughly after soaking to prevent any fungal infections.
Apply an antibiotic ointment on the affected area, which can help with the healing process and prevent infection. Cover it with a clean bandage to protect the area and reduce pain and swelling.
If you notice increased redness, swelling, pus or discharge, it’s time to seek professional care.
These may be signs of an infected ingrown toenail, which requires medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or even perform a nail removal procedure if necessary.
In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage your discomfort. You can also use toe protectors, which can bring additional relief by cushioning the painful area and reducing pressure on the nail bed.
Make sure to wear proper footwear. Opt for shoes that give enough space to your toes, allowing them to breathe and preventing unnecessary pressure. Poor blood flow can exacerbate the problem, so choose shoes that promote circulation.
Can Apple Cider Vinegar Dissolve an Ingrown Toenail?
No, apple cider vinegar cannot dissolve an ingrown toenail. However, it can help alleviate some of the discomfort and inflammation associated with the condition.
You can add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a foot soak or apply it directly to the affected area to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
What’s the Difference Between Apple Cider Vinegar and Epsom Salt for Ingrown Toenails?
Both apple cider vinegar and Epsom salt can help soothe ingrown toenails, but they work in different ways.
Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce pain and prevent infection.
Epsom salt, on the other hand, can help to draw out toxins and reduce swelling. Some people find relief by using a combination of both remedies in a foot soak.
How Long Should I Soak My Ingrown Toenail in Apple Cider Vinegar?
You should soak your ingrown toenail in apple cider vinegar for approximately 20–30 minutes at a time. You can do this once or twice a day until the pain and inflammation subside.
Be sure to rinse your foot well after soaking and dry it thoroughly, as prolonged exposure to moisture can worsen ingrown toenails.
Does White Vinegar Help Ingrown Toenails Too?
Yes, white vinegar can also help with ingrown toenails due to its similar acidity and antibacterial properties.
You can use white vinegar in the same way you would use apple cider vinegar: by diluting it with water and soaking your foot or applying it directly to the affected area.
Can Vicks VapoRub Be Used as An Alternative for Apple Cider Vinegar on Ingrown Toenails?
Vicks VapoRub is not a direct substitute for apple cider vinegar, but it can help relieve ingrown toenail discomfort due to its cooling sensation and pain-relieving properties.
To use Vicks VapoRub on an ingrown toenail, gently massage a small amount onto the affected area, being sure to avoid broken skin.
This can be done once or twice a day, as needed. Remember that using Vicks VapoRub is just a temporary solution and not a cure for ingrown toenails.
Summary
Does apple cider vinegar help ingrown toenails? Yes, it can! Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that also has anti-inflammatory properties.
This makes it an effective home remedy for treating mild cases of ingrown toenails.
To use ACV as a treatment, mix equal parts water and ACV in a basin and soak your affected foot for about 20 minutes once or twice daily. However, severe or infected cases may require more professional treatments from your doctor.
All products featured on Gemma Etc. are PR samples or gifted items, unless otherwise indicated. This post may contain affiliate links. If you wish to find out more, please see my Disclaimer within my navigation bar.