Treating Ingrown Toenails Yourself: How to Properly Use a Corner Lifter & Probe
A slightly ingrown toenail can often be freed with the right tool. Important: in case of inflammation, pus or severe pain, this belongs in the hands of a podiatrist or doctor.
The right tools
- Corner lifter: gently raises the nail corner.
- Probe: releases the nail edge from the nail fold.
- Cotton hook/tamponade: to place a little cotton under the corner so the nail grows over the skin.
Corner lifter & probe – available here
Exactly the instruments described in this article:
- Ruck nail lifter, double-ended – raises the ingrown edge gently
- Corner nail nipper – laterally tapered blade – removes the troublesome nail corner cleanly
- Corner lifter and cuticle pusher – two working ends in one instrument
Our recommendations
- Corner lifter with probe – two functions in one instrument.
- Double probe & curette instrument – versatile for the nail fold.
- Double-ended tamponade probe – for inserting cotton.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
With inflammation, pus, diabetes or severe pain – do not treat it yourself then.
How do I prevent it?
Cut nails straight, not rounded, and not too short.