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Remedies and Prevention
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There are a few things that can be done to relieve the pain of ingrown fingernails. The most popular solution is to soak your finger. Fill a bowl with 8 oz. of warm water. Pour about 2 oz. of apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or tea tree oil into the water. Coconut oil contains antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial properties that can sooth and protect ingrown nails. Tea tree oil is an essential oil that is applied topically to kill any bacteria or fungus that may be associated with the ingrown fingernail. According to Drug Information Online, "tea tree oil has been used as an antimicrobial without irritating sensitive tissues."
Soaking your finger for about 20 to 30 minutes will soften the nail enough for you to work with it. Once your nail is soft enough, gently lift the ingrown portion of your nail to prevent it from sticking your skin. Apply tea tree oil, coconut oil, or a mild antiseptic to a small piece of cotton and wedge the cotton between the skin and the nail. Wrap your finger loosely with a bandage. You should repeat this treatment at least twice daily until the nail begins to grow outward instead of into your skin.
Although this remedy will help with ingrown fingernails that you currently have, it's best to prevent them from growing in the first place. Instead of cutting your nails in a 'U' or 'V' shape, cut them straight across. Doing this will help your nails grow straight, instead of curving into your skin. Finally, try to avoid cutting your fingernails too short. Doing this will cause your nails to grow improperly as well.
Considerations
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It may take awhile for your nails to stop growing inward. If pain and inflammation persist or your nail becomes infected, see a doctor. Your doctor may suggest additional treatment, such as cutting the ingrown nail out or removing a small portion of your nail.
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