How to Remove an Ingrown Fingernail

An ingrown fingernail occurs when the nail starts to grow into the skin of your finger. An ingrown fingernail can be very painful, and if left unattended can lead to a serious infection. It is possible to remove an ingrown fingernail yourself; however, if you are suffering with a great deal of pain, or if the area is bright red with pus, it is best to contact a medical professional for an evaluation.

Things You'll Need

• Disposable roasting pan
• Towel
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Olive oil

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Instructions

• 1

  Fill your disposable roasting pan with warm to hot water. Soak the hand with the ingrown fingernail for 10 to 15 minutes.

• 2

  Remove your hand and pat dry with a towel. Be careful not to use too much pressure around the ingrown fingernail.

• 3

  Clip your fingernail as close to your finger as you can. Do not cut to, or below the quick. The quick is the pink flesh under the nail bed. Make sure that you cut your nail in a straight line. If your finger becomes tender, dip it back into the warm water and allow it to set for another 10 minutes.

• 4

  Hold your nail file at an angle and set it along the edge of your finger where your fingernail grows into the skin. Softly file the area, using a light pressure and a back and forth motion. This will file the nail down and remove it from being embedded in the skin.

• 5

  Rub olive oil on the finger you just worked on. This will ease your discomfort. Repeat daily until your finger heals to prevent the fingernail from becoming ingrown again.