You might not realize it, but your toenails play a vital role in the overall health of your feet. They provide protection to the sensitive tips of your toes and help maintain the structural integrity of your feet. In addition, the appearance of your toenails can serve as an indicator of your overall health, as certain conditions can manifest as changes in their appearance. Therefore, knowing how to keep toenails healthy is essential for maintaining good foot health and preventing potential complications.

Toenail health is often overlooked, but it should be a priority in your personal care routine. You use your feet every day to walk, run, and perform various activities, so it’s essential to keep them in top shape. By taking good care of your toenails, you’re not only improving the appearance of your feet but also helping to prevent infections, ingrown toenails, and other painful issues that can hinder your mobility and overall quality of life.

In this article, you will learn about common toenail problems and their causes, tips and practices for keeping your toenails healthy, the role of diet and nutrition, proper footwear, regular maintenance and grooming, and natural remedies for promoting healthy toenails. This comprehensive guide will give you the knowledge and tools to prioritize toenail health and enjoy a lifetime of strong, healthy toenails.

Related: Ingrown Toenail Treatment: Essential Tips

To better understand how to keep toenails healthy, it’s essential to recognize common issues and their causes. Some of the most prevalent toenail problems include:

1. Fungal infections: Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or toenail fungus, are caused by various fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments like shoes and socks. These infections can cause your toenails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle.
2. Ingrown toenails: An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and inflammation. This can result from improper nail trimming, tight shoes, or trauma to the toenail.
3. Nail trauma: Accidents or repetitive pressure on the toenails, such as from wearing tight shoes or engaging in high-impact sports, can cause the nails to become bruised, cracked, or detached from the nail bed.
4. Nail infections: Bacterial or yeast infections can develop in the space between the toenail and the nail bed, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
5. Nail disorders: Certain medical conditions, such as psoriasis, can cause changes in the appearance and health of your toenails.

Understanding these common problems and their causes allows you to take preventive measures and address issues early, promoting healthy, natural toenails.

Incorporate several tips and practices into your daily routine to keep your toenails healthy and strong. These include:

1. Wash your feet daily: Clean your feet with soap and water, paying attention to the spaces between your toes and underneath your toenails. This helps to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can cause infections.
2. Dry your feet thoroughly: After washing, thoroughly dry your feet, especially between the toes, as moisture can create an environment conducive to fungal growth.
3. Trim your toenails regularly: Regularly trim them straight across and avoid cutting them too short, as this can lead to ingrown toenails. Use clean, sharp nail clippers or scissors to prevent the spread of infection.
4. Moisturize your feet: Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream daily to keep the skin soft and supple and prevent dryness and cracking.
5. Avoid sharing nail care tools: Sharing nail clippers, scissors, and files can spread fungal and bacterial infections. Make sure to use your own tools and clean them after each use.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining healthy, strong toenails.

A balanced diet is essential for overall health; your toenails are no exception. Consuming various nutrients can help promote strong, healthy nails and prevent deficiencies that can lead to nail problems.

Some essential nutrients for healthy toenails include:

1. Biotin: Biotin, a type of B vitamin, plays a crucial role in the health of your skin, hair, and nails. Biotin-rich foods include eggs, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
2. Protein: Protein is the building block of keratin, the primary structural component of your nails. Include a variety of protein sources in your diet, such as lean meats, fish, dairy, legumes, and soy products.
3. Zinc is essential for proper cell division and growth, making it a critical nutrient for healthy toenails. Zinc-rich foods include oysters, beef, poultry, beans, and nuts.
4. Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to brittle, weak toenails. Ensure you consume enough iron. While red meats contain iron, so do beans and many fortified products including cereals.

By incorporating these nutrients into your diet, you’ll provide your body with the fuel it needs to grow and maintain healthy, strong toenails.

The shoes you wear have a significant impact on the health of your toenails. Wearing tight, ill-fitting, or unsupportive shoes can lead to various issues, including ingrown toenails, nail trauma, and fungal infections. To promote healthy toenails, follow these footwear tips:

1. Choose the right size: Make sure your shoes fit properly, with enough room for your toes to wiggle without feeling cramped or restricted.
2. Select breathable materials: Choose shoes made of natural, breathable materials like leather or canvas, which allow air to circulate and keep your feet dry.
3. Avoid tight shoes: Tight shoes can pressure your toenails and increase the risk of ingrown toenails, bruising, or other damage.
4. Wear socks: Wearing socks can help to absorb moisture and provide a barrier between your feet and your shoes, reducing the risk of fungal infections.

You can protect your toenails and promote their health and well-being by making smart footwear choices.

Regular toenail maintenance and grooming are essential for keeping your toenails healthy, strong, and free from potential issues. Here are some essential grooming tips:

1. Trim your nails regularly: Trim your toenails every two to three weeks, depending on how quickly they grow. This helps to prevent them from becoming too long and susceptible to damage.
2. File your nails: Use a nail file to gently smooth the edges of your toenails after trimming, which can help prevent snagging and ingrown nails.
3. Soak your feet: Soaking your feet in warm water can help to soften the nails, making them easier to trim and file. Adding Epsom salt to the water can also help to soothe tired feet and improve circulation.
4. Examine your toenails regularly: Regularly inspect your toenails for signs of discoloration, thickening, or other issues that could indicate a problem. Address any concerns promptly to prevent complications.

Adopting a regular toenail maintenance and grooming routine can help ensure that your toenails remain healthy and strong.

Thick toenails can be uncomfortable and unsightly and may be a sign of an underlying issue. Some common causes of thick toenails include fungal infections, psoriasis, and aging. Depending on the cause, there are various solutions for addressing this problem.

1. Fungal infections: Over-the-counter antifungal creams or nail lacquers may help if you suspect a fungal infection. In more severe cases, prescription medications or laser treatments may be necessary.
2. Psoriasis: If psoriasis is the cause of your thick toenails, your doctor may recommend topical treatments, oral medications, or light therapy to address the underlying condition.
3. Aging: Your toenails can become thicker and more brittle as you age. Regular moisturizing and proper nail care can help maintain the health and appearance of your nails.

If you’re unsure of the cause of your thick toenails, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, there are several natural remedies you can try to promote healthy, strong toenails:

1. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help prevent and treat fungal infections. Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to a cotton ball and dab it onto your toenails daily.
2. Apple cider vinegar: Soaking your feet in equal parts water and apple cider vinegar can help fight fungal infections and soothe itchy, irritated skin.
3. Vicks VapoRub: Some people find that applying Vicks VapoRub to their toenails can help to reduce the symptoms of fungal infections.
4. Coconut oil: Coconut oil has antifungal properties and can help to moisturize dry, cracked skin. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your toenails and massage it in daily.

WebMD indicates that these might help prevent and treat minor issues. However, while these natural remedies may be helpful, it’s essential to remember that they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for persistent or severe toenail issues.

While many toenail issues can be addressed with proper care and maintenance, there are times when it’s necessary to consult a podiatrist or other healthcare professional. You should see a podiatrist if:

1. You have persistent pain, redness, or swelling around your toenails.
2. Your toenails are thick, discolored, or have an unusual odor.
3. You have a toenail injury that hasn’t healed after a few days.
4. You suspect a fungal infection that hasn’t improved with over-the-counter treatments.
5. You have a medical condition, such as diabetes or poor circulation, that increases your risk of foot complications.

A podiatrist can thoroughly evaluate your toenail concerns and recommend an appropriate treatment plan to ensure your toenails remain healthy and strong.