DefenseMedia Platforms Design Team Illustration by Bee. If your nails are fine: Trim straight across and leave some of the nail’s white edge showing—sharp corners of too-short nails can pierce the skin, causing painful inflammation and potentially leading to a full-blown ingrown toenail. Shoes that squeeze toes to the point of discomfort are a no-go. OffenseMedia Platforms Design Team Illustration by Bee. If you’re in the early stages of an ingrown: Lift the edge of the nails enough to place a small piece of gauze between it and your skin, and change it daily. If it doesn’t get better after 3 days or you notice warmth or pus, consult your doctor. MORE: 8 Reasons Your Nails Keep Breaking
