When you trim your nails, they may end up looking as perfect as a professional pedicure but the problem doesn't come from what you can see. In many cases, the nail is either curved down into the toe or the skin at the edge of the nail protrudes slightly over the nail. In these cases, the part of the nail hidden by the skin often is not trimmed flush with the rest of the nail and creates what is known as a nail spicule. This tiny part of the nail is often pointed and becomes ingrown as the nail grows out, pushing the spicule into the skin in front of the nail. A good clue that you are creating a nail spicule is if you cut the edge of the nail and then have to pull the piece off.
Trimming your toenails seems like one of those no-brainer activities, yet surprisingly few people understand how to do it without risking an ingrown nail. The following steps cover the proper way to trim your nails.
- If possible, use only toenail trimmers with a straight blade. Most nail clippers have a curve blade which will create a curved end to the nail. Additionally, make sure that the clippers are sharp and strong so that the nail can be cut in one try.
- Soak feet in warm water for 5-10 minutes prior to trimming to soften nails. This will make trimming easier and give you more control over the cuts that you are making.
- Trim nails straight across and no shorter than the end of the nail crease.
- If the nail inadvertently gets cut shorter than intended, run a nail file underneath the nail from the front around to the side and ensure that the very edge of the nail is even with the rest of the nail.
