How to trim toenails
It may seem like the easiest task, but trimming your toenails is a ritual that should be done with care and attention. Therefore, today we will talk about how to properly cut toenails.
You will be surprised, but most people cut their toenails the wrong way. And this is not at all encouraging, because the most common mistakes can lead to painful and quite serious consequences, such as ingrown nails and various infections.
People with diabetes should be especially careful about the issue of shortening toenails in order to reduce the risk of future foot problems.
Preparation
Never use nail scissors to cut toenails, as the nails on our lower extremities are much thicker than on our hands, and ordinary scissors may simply not do the job, damaging the nails. Buy better quality nail clippers.
Care should be taken to ensure that the two blades on the tool work with the same pressure to ensure a good, clean cut.
Hygiene is the key to a safe pedicure. If possible, wipe all toes with an alcohol solution before starting the procedure. I'm not talking about the importance of sterilizing tweezers, I think this is already clear.
It is okay to share nail clippers with other family members, but always check that they have been sterilized before each use. Otherwise, if one of the family members has a fungal infection, you will also become the owner of it.
Keep track of technology
Choose a place with enough light. Sit on a chair or on the floor, holding the nail clippers in one hand and holding your leg with the other hand.
There is no need to pre-soak your feet in water. Toenails are so strong that it doesn't really show up in their texture. In addition, trimming dry nails will give you a smoother and more even cut.
Starting with your thumb, cut your nails straight so that they are square and not curved at the edges. Their rounding can lead to ingrown toenails. It is at this stage that many people make a major mistake.
The only ones who are advised to cut their nails in a crooked cut are ballet dancers, as they often have to stand on their fingertips. But most often they turn to professionals for trimming toenails.
Do not cut your nails too short, as the skin under the nail can become damaged and inflamed.
Don't hurt your cuticles. :) If you want to give your toenails a nicer look, just use a cuticle stick and push it back a bit.
Use a nail file to smooth out the sharp ends. As with tweezers, clean the nail file before use.
Finish with a moisturizing foot cream.
When you're done, wash all of your tools in hot water to be free of nail particles and dirt.
Who should not trim their toenails on their own
- If you have an ingrown toenail
- If you are obese, pregnant or nearsighted enough to not be able to see your legs well.
- If your nails are especially thick, which is common in older people or if you experience pain while trimming your nails.
- Diabetics should also be especially careful, because an ingrown toenail can disrupt blood circulation and affect nerve endings. Cutting the skin around the nail can lead to infection and, in rare cases, ulcers or even gangrene.
How often to cut toenails
Everyone's nails grow at different rates, so there is no set schedule. Just make sure your legs aren't too long and trim them before they rub against your shoes and hurt.
Clean, well-groomed and neatly trimmed nails symbolize healthy legs and comfortable walking. And that's exactly what we need! :) Be healthy and beautiful!