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Trimming your toenails (pedicabs) is an important part of daily care, and the correct method can avoid problems such as ingrown toenails and infection. The following are the detailed steps and precautions:
Steps to trim your toenails
Preparing tools
- Specialized toenail clippers or scissors (larger and sturdier than fingernail clippers)
- Nail file (coarse grit is recommended)
- Warm water, soap (before using to soften nails)
- Clean towel, alcohol cotton pad (disinfection tools)
Soften nails
- Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften your nails and make them easier to trim.
- Dry your feet and keep them dry.
Straight trim
- Don't cut into an arc: trim in a straight line along the nail's natural growth direction, leaving a slight margin on both sides (to avoid cutting it too short) to prevent the nail from growing into the skin (ingrowing toenail).
- Trim in multiple times: Especially for thick and hard nails, avoid cutting too deep at one time.
Sanding the edges
- Use a nail file to smooth the trimmed edges to prevent sharp corners from scratching your skin or socks.
Cleansing and moisturizing
- After trimming, rinse your feet with clean water and apply moisturizer after drying (avoid the nail groove).
Precautions
Avoid over-pruning
- It is recommended to keep the toenail length at 1-2 mm, just enough to cover the front end of the nail bed.
- Avoid cutting into the nail groove (the skin on either side of the nail) to avoid infection or ingrown nails.
Special situation handling
- Thick nails/onychomycosis: You can soften them with urea ointment first, or consult a doctor for antifungal drugs.
- Ingrown toenails: Mild ingrown toenails can be relieved by padding the edge of the nail with sterilized cotton thread; if redness, swelling and suppuration occur, seek medical attention.
- People with diabetes or blood circulation problems: It is recommended to have your hair trimmed by a professional to avoid injuries caused by self-operation.
Tool hygiene
- Disinfect tools with alcohol before and after each use to avoid cross infection.
- Do not share nail clippers with others.
When should I see a doctor?
- Severe ingrown nails (ingrowing nails), accompanied by redness, swelling and pus discharge.
- Nail discoloration (such as black, yellow-green), thickening, or loss may be a sign of a fungal infection.
- Persistent pain after pruning or difficulty healing the wound.
Properly trimming your toenails can reduce foot problems. If you have any discomfort or concerns, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or professional manicurist!
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