Toenails are a part of our bodies we often take for granted, until something goes wrong, like an injury leading to infection. Sometimes, due to injury, infection, or other medical conditions, a toenail may need to be removed. While it’s always best to consult a doctor, there may be situations where you consider removing a toenail yourself.
This article provides information on how to remove a toenail yourself safely at home. However, it’s crucially important to understand the risks involved and know when professional medical help is necessary. (Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a doctor before attempting any at-home medical procedure.)
We’ll cover the warning signs that indicate you need to see a doctor, the tools and preparation required, step-by-step instructions for safe removal, and how to care for the area afterward to prevent complications.
When to consider removing a toenail yourself
If you’ve stubbed your toe or otherwise had a minor injury, and the toenail is only partially detached, you might be able to remove it yourself. But first, you need to carefully assess the situation.
It’s important to see a doctor right away if you have any of the following:
- Severe pain
- Bleeding
- Pus
- Redness, swelling, or heat (signs of infection)
- Diabetes or peripheral artery disease
- Severe or recurring ingrown toenails or fungal infections
A doctor is best equipped to evaluate your situation and determine the proper treatment, especially if you’re concerned about whether Kerasal could cause your nail to fall off. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Preparing to remove a toenail
Removing a toenail at home is risky. You’re better off seeing a doctor for any toenail issue. If you’re going to try to remove your toenail yourself, make sure you have all the right supplies and that you’re in the right environment.
Gather your supplies
- Antiseptic solution, such as povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine, to clean the area and prevent infection
- Sterile nail clippers and small scissors to trim and detach the toenail
- Sterile tweezers or forceps to gently lift and remove the toenail
- Clean bandages and gauze to protect the wound after removal
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain
- A bowl with warm water and Epsom salts (optional) to soften the nail and reduce inflammation
Prepare the area
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize the risk of infection.
- Clean the affected toe with antiseptic solution, ensuring the entire area is clean and dry.
- Soak the toe in warm water (with Epsom salts if desired) for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the nail and make removal easier.
Set up a clean workspace
- Pick a well-lit area to make sure you can see what you’re doing.
- Cover the work surface with a clean towel or paper to maintain a sterile environment.
How to remove a toenail yourself
Removing a toenail at home is possible, but it’s not something to take lightly. The information here is not medical advice. If you can see a doctor or podiatrist, that’s the best option.
If you can’t, these are the steps to take:
Assess the toenail
First, figure out how much of the toenail is already detached. You shouldn’t try to remove it unless most of it is already separated from the nail bed.
Next, check for any signs of infection or inflammation. If you see redness, pus, or swelling, see a doctor before you do anything else.
Detach the remaining toenail
If it looks safe to proceed, gently lift the edge of the detached toenail with tweezers. Be very careful not to pull too hard or cause pain.
If there are still some attachments, use sterile nail clippers or scissors to carefully trim them. Cut close to the nail bed, but don’t cut the skin.
Keep lifting and trimming until the entire toenail is detached. Work slowly and carefully to avoid trauma to the nail bed.
Remove the toenail
When the toenail is fully detached, gently lift it away from the nail bed. Use tweezers or forceps to grasp the toenail and pull it straight out.
If you feel resistance, stop and reassess. Don’t force it, because that can damage the nail bed.
Address bleeding
It’s common to have some bleeding. Apply gentle pressure to the nail bed with a clean gauze pad to stop the bleeding.
Elevate your foot to reduce blood flow. Keep applying pressure until the bleeding stops.
Caring for your toe after a toenail removal
Once you’ve removed the toenail, it’s important to take steps to prevent infection and encourage healing.
Cleaning and bandaging the wound
- Clean the nail bed carefully with an antiseptic solution to remove any debris that may be present.
- Consider applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
- Cover the area with a sterile bandage. You’ll want to change the bandage once a day, or more often if it becomes wet or dirty.
Managing pain and discomfort
Removing a toenail can be painful. Here are some tips for managing the pain:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as needed, following the directions on the package.
- Elevate your foot to reduce swelling.
- Rest your foot as much as possible.
Preventing infection and promoting healing
To prevent infection and help your toe heal:
- Keep the wound clean and dry, avoiding prolonged exposure to water.
- Wear loose-fitting shoes and socks to avoid putting pressure on the nail bed.
- Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention.
Preventing future toenail problems
Here are some steps you can take to prevent toenail problems in the future:
- Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounding the corners. Rounding the corners can lead to ingrown toenails.
- Wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight can damage your toenails.
- Practice good foot hygiene by washing and drying your feet regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a dead toenail fall off on its own?
Often, yes, a dead or severely damaged toenail will eventually detach on its own. However, this process can take weeks or even months, and the loose nail can be prone to snagging or infection. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting to remove it yourself.
What kind of doctor removes toenails?
A podiatrist is the specialist best equipped to handle toenail removal. They have the expertise to diagnose the underlying cause of the nail problem and perform the procedure safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of complications.
Will a new toenail grow under a dead one?
Typically, a new toenail will grow underneath the old, detached one. It can take several months, sometimes up to a year, for a new toenail to fully grow in. The new nail may appear discolored or thickened initially, but it should gradually return to normal.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off a toenail affected by fungus is generally not recommended without professional guidance. It increases the risk of infection and can potentially worsen the fungal infection. Consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment options for fungal nails.
How to disguise a missing toenail?
If you’re missing a toenail, you can use a variety of strategies to disguise it. Nail polish can help blend the exposed nail bed with surrounding nails. You can also consider wearing closed-toe shoes or socks. For a more permanent solution, consult with a podiatrist about prosthetic toenails.
In Conclusion
While it’s possible to remove a toenail at home in some cases, safety is key. Make sure you know when it’s time to see a professional. After removing a toenail, proper care is essential to avoid problems and help your toe heal.
If you have any concerns, talk to a doctor. This guide is not a substitute for medical advice.