Summarize the following:
This can help to prevent an infection and soften the ingrown toenail. Then, put two drops of tea tree oil on the nail. Let the tea tree soak in and then finish with a dab of Vick's VapoRub or Mentholatum on the ingrown toenail. The menthol and the camphor will help to reduce the pain and soften the nail further. Apply a bandage or a small piece of gauze to keep the menthol and camphor on the toenail. The following day, soak your toe again for 20 minutes and then take out a small piece of cotton. Roll it between your fingers so it makes a inch long cotton "tube." Use clean hands to tape one end of the cotton tube to the top of your toe and then lift the corner of the ingrown toenail up and out with one finger. Use your other finger to work the free end of the cotton tube under the nail and then out the other side. The cotton should sit between the skin and the nail. Keep in mind this process can be painful. You may need to ask someone else for assistance to help you slide the cotton tube under the corner of the nail. Make sure you also apply tea tree oil and the menthol-camphor ointment to keep your toenail soft and to prevent infection. You can also put some tea tree oil on the cotton tube. Avoid using nail files, tweezers, or nail cutters, as these can break or damage the skin. This can then lead to an infection. Wear white cotton socks and keep your feet clean. Colored dyes on socks can get into your nail and lead to more inflammation.
Soak your foot in warm water. Use a small piece of cotton to lift the ingrown. Replace the cotton every day after soaking your foot.