Toenails can often become thick and hard over time, and while they can be uncomfortable and unsightly, you don’t need to reach for chemical-based treatments in order to softens them. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips and natural solutions on how to soften hard toenails. We’ll discuss why your toenails may be thick and hard, and how you can take care of them without resorting to harsh chemicals. So read on to find out everything you need to know about softening your hard toenails!
How to soften hard toenails
Hard toenails can be a pain, literarily. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t fret, there are ways to get your toenails back to normal. Below are four methods for softening your hard toenails:
- Soak your feet. The simplest way to deal with hard toenails is to soak them. Fill a basin with warm water and Epsom salts and soak your feet for 30 minutes. The warm water will help to loosen the nails and the Epsom salts will help to exfoliate them.
- Use a pumice stone. After soaking your feet, use a pumice stone to massage the nails. This will help to remove any dead skin cells that may be causing the nails to become hard. Be sure to use gentle circular motions.
- Apply olive oil or coconut oil. Another way to soften your nails is to apply olive oil or coconut oil to them. This will help to moisturize the nails and keep them from becoming hard. Apply the oil before bed and cover your feet with socks.
- Take supplements. Supplements such as biotin and fish oil can also help to keep your nails healthy and strong. These can be found at most health food stores.
By following these simple tips, you’ll have softer, healthier toenails in no time!
Going Natural: Fixing Thick Toenails the Easy Way
According to researchers, one of the main causes of thick toenails is fungal infection. Other possible causes include trauma, psoriasis, and diabetes. If you suspect your thick toenails are caused by a fungal infection, there are natural treatments that may help.
Baking soda has strong antifungal effects. Soaking your thick yellow toenails in baking soda and water can combat fungal infections. Applying 100% tea tree oil to affected toenails twice daily can help ease symptoms. Olive leaf extract has both antibacterial and antifungal effects.
For best results, combine these natural treatments with good hygiene practices. Be sure to wash your feet daily with soap and water. Dry thoroughly, especially between your toes. Change your socks often, and wear shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breath.
If you have diabetes, it’s important to control your blood sugar levels and see your doctor regularly. Psoriasis can be treated with topical ointments or light therapy. If you suspect your thick toenails are caused by trauma, see your doctor for an evaluation.
Say Goodbye to Stubborn Old Toenails
Soften your toenails by soaking your feet for 10 minutes in warm water. Dry your feet and toenails with a towel. Now you’re ready to trim your toenails. Nail nippers work best.
Use a clean pair of nippers, and cut along the edge of the nail, following its natural shape. Don’t cut too deep – you don’t want to cut into the flesh beneath the nail. If your nails are very thick, you may need to use a file as well.
Once you’ve trimmed your nails, it’s time to give them a little shape. Use a nail file to gently file down the edges of your nails. Again, follow the natural shape of your nails, and don’t file too aggressively.
Now that your nails are all trimmed and shaped, it’s time to moisturize! Massage a little bit of lotion into your hands and feet, paying particular attention to your nails and cuticles. This will help keep your nails healthy and prevent them from becoming brittle.
The Thick and Hard Truth Behind Toenail Problems
Thick, hard toenails can be frustrating. They make it difficult to wear sandals or open-toed shoes. You may feel like you have to hide your feet because they’re embarrassing. And if the nails are yellow, they can also be unsightly. There are several reasons your toenails might be thick and hard. Here are four of the most common:
Age
As you age, your toenails may become thicker and harder. This is due to a buildup of the cells that make up your nails. The nails may also become yellow or discolored as you age.
Nail fungus
Nail fungus is a common condition that can cause your toenails to become thick and hard. It’s caused by a fungus that grows in the nails. Nail fungus can be difficult to treat, but there are several options available. If you think you have nail fungus, see your doctor.
Nail psoriasis
Nail psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can cause your toenails to become thick and hard. It causes the nails to grow faster than normal and produces a thick, white buildup on the nails. Nail psoriasis can be difficult to treat, but there are several options available. If you think you have nail psoriasis, see your doctor.
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Wearing shoes that are too tight can cause your toenails to become thick and hard. This is because the shoes put pressure on the nails, which causes them to grow thicker and harder. If you wear shoes that are too tight, try wearing a larger size or a different style of shoe. Or, try wearing socks with your shoes to help protect your nails.
Brittle Toenails: Here’s What You Need to Know
There are a few possible explanations for why your toenails may be hard and brittle. It could be due to a simple issue like not drinking enough water, or it could be a more serious issue like a fungal infection.
Here are some common causes of hard and brittle toenails:
- Not drinking enough water – This is one of the most common causes of brittle toenails. If you’re not properly hydrated, your nails will become dry and brittle.
- Fungal infection – A fungal infection is often the cause of crumbly toenails. You can treat a fungal infection with a course of antifungal tablets.
- Skin condition – A skin condition called lichen planus can also cause brittle nails. If you have this condition, you may notice that your nails are crumbly and hard.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your brittle toenails, it’s best to see a doctor or podiatrist. They can help you diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
Kicking Out Thick Toenails for Good
Toenails can become thick for a variety of reasons, including trauma, infection, and age. Thick toenails can be difficult to trim and may cause pain when wearing shoes.
There are a few things you can do to get rid of thick toenails:
- Clean the affected area with soap and water daily.
- Groom your nails regularly.
- Apply an over-the-counter fungal treatment after you gently file your nails.
- Apply Vicks VapoRub on your toenail each day.
- Apply tea tree oil twice a day every day.
If you have thick toenails and are experiencing pain, see your doctor or podiatrist. They may recommend a course of treatment that includes prescribed medication.