How to Ease the Pain and Swelling of an Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails can cause pain and swelling exacerbated by standing and walking. The big toe often is the location of an ingrown toenail, although other toes may be affected, and it can be caused by tight shoes or toenails that have not been cut straight across. A simple routine of soaking and massaging the affected area often is effective in relieving the pain and getting rid of the infection.

Things You'll Need

• Basin
• Epsom salt
• Very warm water
• Wooden spoon
• Tea tree oil
• Olive oil
• Cotton swab
• Cotton ball
• Athletic tape

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Instructions

• 1

  Measure one cup of Epsom salt and pour it into the basin. Pour 1 gallon very warm water over the salt and stir with a wooden spoon. Add 2 drops of tea tree oil.

• 2

  Place your foot in the water and allow it to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove your foot from the water and dry thoroughly with a clean towel.

• 3

  Combine 1 tablespoon olive oil with 2 drops tea tree oil. Dip the cotton swab into the mixture and spread around the ingrown toenail. Gently try to lift the ingrown toenail out of the nail bed.

• 4

  Push a small section of a clean cotton ball under the nail to prevent it from pushing back into the skin. Wrap a 3-inch section of athletic tape around the cotton ball to hold it in place.

• 5

  Soak your foot up to three times a day. Place the cotton under the toenail after soaking.