Doctor Warns Against DIY Ingrown Toenail Treatments

Ingrown Toenails: DIY Risks and Safe Treatment Options Millions suffer from ingrown toenails each year. Improper treatment can lead to serious complications. Dr. Dana Fig, a TikTok and YouTube influencer, recently shared a video warning against at-home remedies and offering a safer alternative. "What you see here is someone trying to fix their ingrown toenail by DIY, sliding a piece of plastic under that nail," Dr. Fig explains in her video. She demonstrates the technique and highlights the potential risks, including infection. The video showcases the dangers of unsanitary home treatments, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional medical help. Dr. Fig provides a safer method for mild cases, involving the gentle insertion of cotton under the nail's edge to relieve pressure. "For very mild ingrown nails, you can gently put a little bit of cotton under the edge of the nail to get the same effect," she advises. This technique, she explains, reduces pressure and allows the nail to grow out properly. Dr. Fig's video serves as a valuable public service announcement, reminding viewers to prioritize safe and effective treatment for ingrown toenails.