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Trimming straight across creates a pleasing effect, but it can also limit ingrown toenails. However, you can round off the corners with a file so you don't scratch yourself with your toenails. Trim your nails when they're dry. You'll get a cleaner cut. Pick out clippers meant for toenails, as they are less rounded and made to cut thicker nails. You may find that nail nippers work even better, especially if you have nail fungus, because they are sharper and easier to control. They look like small wire cutters. Skip cutting cuticles. They help protect you from infection. Your toenails should be about as long as your toes. If they're any longer, they may rub against your shoes. If they're too short, it can lead to infection. An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of your toenail pushes into your skin. You may notice your toe is red, some swelling, or some pain. To deal with an ingrown toenail yourself, bathe your feet in warm water for about 20 minutes, which can help relieve pain and swelling; acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also help with the pain. Place cotton or dental floss under the edge, to help the nail grow properly; put new pieces back in after each time you soak it. To keep it from getting infected, use antibiotic ointment and then cover the area with a bandage. It can also help if your shoes are loose-fitting or open around the toes. Proper toenail maintenance can help keep you from getting ingrown toenails, such as cutting straight across and keeping toenails at the proper length. You can deal with ingrown toenails yourself. However, you may need to see your doctor about one if you are having a great deal of pain. Also, redness moving up your toe or pus coming from the wound could be a sign of a more serious infection. Also, if you have diabetes, it's important to take action when you notice any problems with your feet. Run a manicure stick under your nails. Don't push too hard, as you can separate the nail from the nail bed. Running a manicure stick will help keep them clean and beautiful. While it's fine to use polish, you also need to take a break from it every once and awhile. Keep away from it about a fourth of the time, taking a week off a month. That will give your toes a breather and allow them to regain moisture. If you leave it on for longer, you can stain your toenails. However, adding a clear base coat before painting your toenails can help alleviate this problem. If you do have stained nails, check to see if they're also hard and brittle. If so, you likely have a toenail fungus. Ask your doctor about the condition.
Trim toenails straight across. Cut toenails to the proper length. Watch for ingrown toenails. Clean under your toenails. Take a break from polish occasionally. Remove nail polish before 2 weeks is up.