How to Cut Toenails to Prevent Ingrown Nails
Cut your toenails straight across, never rounded at the corners, and avoid cutting them too short. 1, 2
Proper Toenail Cutting Technique
The most critical preventive measure is the cutting method itself:
- Trim nails straight across horizontally rather than following the curved contour of the toe 1, 2
- Leave the nail edges extending slightly beyond the skin of the lateral nail folds—cutting too short allows the nail plate to pierce the periungual tissue as it grows, triggering inflammation 1, 2
- Avoid rounding or tapering the corners, as this encourages the nail to grow into the lateral fold rather than over it 2
The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot explicitly recommends this straight-across cutting technique in their 2023 updated guidelines, emphasizing it as a core preventive measure for all at-risk individuals 1. This recommendation is reinforced across multiple clinical practice guidelines 1, 2.
Optimal Timing and Preparation
- Soften nails before cutting by soaking feet in warm water, which makes the nail easier to cut cleanly without splintering 3
- Trim nails regularly to maintain appropriate length—waiting too long between trimmings increases the risk of trauma and irregular growth patterns 1, 2
- Cut at the end of the day when feet are slightly swollen to their maximum size, ensuring you don't cut too short 1
Additional Preventive Measures
Beyond cutting technique, several complementary strategies reduce ingrown nail risk:
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes with adequate toe room to avoid pressure on the nail plate that can force it into the lateral fold 1, 2
- Choose cotton socks to reduce friction and moisture accumulation 1, 2
- Apply topical emollients daily to cuticles and periungual tissues to maintain skin suppleness, but avoid applying between the toes 1, 2
- Avoid walking barefoot or in thin-soled slippers, as this increases trauma risk to the toes 1
- Never bite nails or use them as tools, as this creates irregular edges that can penetrate the nail fold 1, 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The most frequent mistakes that lead to ingrown nails include:
- Cutting nails in a curved or rounded fashion to match the toe shape—this is the primary behavioral cause of ingrown nails 2, 4
- Trimming too short, especially at the corners, which removes the protective barrier between nail and skin 1, 2
- Using dull or inappropriate cutting tools that crush or splinter the nail rather than making clean cuts 3
- Wearing tight, narrow, or pointed shoes that compress the toes and force the nail plate laterally into the soft tissue 1
When to Seek Professional Help
If you have foot deformities, thickened nails, or difficulty reaching your feet, refer to a podiatrist for professional nail care rather than attempting self-trimming 1, 2. This is particularly important for individuals with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or peripheral artery disease who may not feel early signs of nail trauma 1.