What causes an ingrown nail, and how can it be prevented?

There are a few reasons why ingrown nails can occur. One main cause is the way nails are trimmed. When nails are cut too short or curved at the edges instead of straight across, they can grow into the skin.

Another cause is wearing shoes that are too tight. Tight shoes put pressure on your nails and toes, pushing the nail into the skin. Sometimes, a small injury or trauma to the nail can cause it to grow in a wayward manner, leading to an ingrown nail. Infections and other skin conditions may also play a role.

To help prevent ingrown nails, always trim your nails straight across rather than rounding the edges. This simple step can reduce the chance of the nail growing into the skin. It's also important to wear comfortable shoes that fit properly, giving your toes enough room to move without extra pressure. Keeping your feet clean and dry is also helpful.

Finally, if you notice any pain or early signs of an ingrown nail, you can use our free AI symptom checker to better understand your symptoms before deciding whether to address it with good nail care at home or schedule a visit to a doctor.