The Right Way to Cut Your Nails: Avoid Painful Ingrown Toenails

When it comes to nail care, most people unknowingly make a common mistake that can lead to painful consequences. Cutting your nails the wrong way increases the risk of developing ingrown toenails, which can cause discomfort, inflammation, and even infection. In this blog, we’ll explain the correct technique for trimming your nails, ensuring healthy and pain-free feet.

Dr. Deepika explains the right way to cut your nails to prevent ingrown toenails.

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💡 Why Cutting Your Nails the Right Way Matters

Improper nail cutting may seem harmless, but it can lead to:

• Ingrown Toenails: When the edges of the nail grow into the skin, causing pain and swelling.

• Infection and Inflammation: The skin around the nail can become red, swollen, and tender.

• Discomfort During Daily Activities: Walking or wearing shoes may become painful.

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✂️ The Common Mistake You Should Avoid

Many people tend to cut their nails in a fully curved shape, following the natural curve of the toe. While this may seem like the right technique, it actually increases the chances of ingrown nails.✅ What NOT to do:

• Cutting nails too short, making them prone to growing into the skin.

• Rounding the edges too much, which encourages the nail to grow inward.

• Ignoring proper nail care, leading to rough or jagged edges.

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✅ The Right Way to Cut Your Nails

To prevent ingrown toenails and maintain healthy feet, follow these simple steps:

1. Start with Clean and Dry Nails:

   • Wash your feet and hands with soap and water.

   • Pat them dry thoroughly before trimming.

2. Use the Right Tools:

   • Opt for clean, sharp nail clippers or nail scissors.

   • Avoid using dull tools, as they can cause uneven cuts.

3. Cut in a Semi-Curved Shape:

   • Trim your nails straight across with slightly rounded edges.

   • Keep the length slightly above the skin level to prevent inward growth.

   • Do not cut them too short.

4. Smooth the Edges:

   • Use a nail file to gently smooth any rough or sharp edges.

   • This prevents snagging and reduces the risk of breakage.

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🚫 Common Nail-Cutting Myths Busted

• “Cutting nails very short is hygienic.” → False! Cutting them too short makes them prone to infection.

• “Rounded nails look better and are safer.” → Incorrect! Over-rounding increases the risk of ingrown nails.

• “Toenails and fingernails should be cut the same way.” → No! Toenails should be cut straighter to prevent ingrown nails, while fingernails can have a softer curve.

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🦶 Signs You Might Have an Ingrown Toenail

If you’ve been cutting your nails incorrectly, watch out for these signs:

• Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the nail.

• Pain when walking or touching the area.

• Pus or drainage (in case of infection).

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💬 Final Tips and Takeaway

Proper nail-cutting habits are essential for healthy feet and hands. By trimming your nails in a semi-curved shape and keeping them slightly above the skin level, you can prevent painful ingrown toenails and maintain better overall nail health.

💡 Tell us in the comments: Have you been cutting your nails the right way? Share your experiences and tips below!

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