Fill a tub with about 0. 5 US gal (1. 9 L) of warm water and add 3 tbsp (75 g) of Epsom salt. Place your foot into the water, and relax for about 15 minutes while it soaks. [3] X Expert Source Mark Co, DPMPodiatrist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020. When finished soaking, dry your toe completely. You can do this multiple times a day, or as needed while your toenail is growing out. [4] X Expert Source Mark Co, DPMPodiatrist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020. int Never soak your foot in hot water. It should always be soaked in warm water. [5] X Research source
If you use cotton, you can dip it in antiseptic to help ease the pain and prevent infection under the nail. If the nail is infected, this may also help to soak up any moisture that is trapped under the nail. If you use thick floss, make sure that it is unflavored and unwaxed. Do not insert a metal tool under the nail to try to insert cotton or floss. This could damage the toe further. [6] X Research source
Use antibacterial ointments such as Neosporin. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
You may be prescribed oral antibiotics, which are taken by mouth, to help fend off further infections. [8] X Research source If you are prescribed antibiotics, make sure you complete the entire course and follow up with your doctor as needed.
The toenail may need to be cut by a doctor, but should not be done at home in ‘bathroom surgery’. [9] X Research source
Stay away from your toenails with tweezers, orange sticks, clippers, files, or any other metal tools. [10] X Research source
Avoid touching it with anything other than a cotton swab or bandaging materials. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
