From our previous website’s article collection. Dates, prices and treatment information reflect the original publication period.
An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, is a condition most commonly affecting the big toe in which the nail edge grows into the surrounding soft tissue, causing pain, redness, and infection. This condition can significantly reduce quality of life. In this article, we explore the causes, stages, and current treatment approaches for ingrown toenails in 2026.
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
Ingrown toenails can have multiple causes. The most common ones include:
- Improper nail trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges is the most frequent cause. Nails should be cut straight across.
- Wearing narrow shoes: Tight, pointed-toe shoes that press on the toes make it easier for the nail edge to dig into the surrounding tissue.
- Genetic predisposition: A naturally curved or thick nail structure increases the risk of ingrowth.
- Trauma: Impacts to the toe or repeated micro-traumas can act as triggers.
- Excessive sweating: A moist environment softens the tissue around the nail, making ingrowth easier.
- Obesity and diabetes: These systemic conditions negatively affect foot health and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
Stages of an Ingrown Toenail
Ingrown toenails are assessed in three stages:
Stage 1: Mild pain, redness, and swelling at the nail edge. No infection has developed yet. Conservative treatments are generally sufficient at this stage.
Stage 2: Pain becomes more pronounced and signs of infection appear. Discharge, inflammation, and tenderness are observed at the nail edge. Granulation tissue may begin to form.
Stage 3: Chronic infection and significant granulation tissue are present. Excessive tissue growth is visible at the nail edge. Surgical intervention is unavoidable at this stage.
Conservative Treatment Options
For early-stage ingrown toenails, non-surgical methods can yield successful results:
- Cotton or dental floss technique: Small pieces of cotton placed under the nail edge help guide the nail to grow in the correct direction.
- Antiseptic dressings: Regular foot soaks with antiseptic solution help prevent infection.
- Nail correction braces: Orthodontic nail braces, which have become more widely used since 2026, correct the nail's curvature and eliminate ingrowth. This method is painless and effective.
- Topical antibiotic application: Locally applied antibiotic creams can be used for mild infections.
Surgical Treatment Options
In advanced cases, surgical intervention is required:
Partial Nail Avulsion
The ingrown nail edge is removed under local anesthesia. Recovery time after the procedure is short, and patients can return to daily life quickly.
Matrixectomy (Root Ablation)
The nail matrix is destroyed using a chemical (phenol) or electrocauterization method. This prevents the ingrown nail edge from growing back and significantly reduces the rate of recurrence. Phenol matrixectomy is the most commonly preferred method at Abel Beauty.
Wedge Resection
In chronic and recurrent cases, the nail edge along with the surrounding soft tissue is surgically removed.
Recovery Process and Important Considerations
After surgery, it is recommended to keep the foot elevated for the first few days and to avoid narrow shoes. Dressings should be changed regularly and all follow-up appointments should be attended. Full recovery typically occurs within two to four weeks.
Prevention
Cutting nails straight across, wearing comfortable footwear, maintaining good foot hygiene, and avoiding trauma are the most effective preventive measures.
At Abel Beauty, we offer our patients the most comfortable and long-lasting solutions for ingrown toenail treatment. Please contact us for pricing information and to book a consultation.
