If you lose a toenail, you want it to grow back as quickly as possible.There are only a few things you can do to speed up the process.You need to keep the exposed nail bed clean as your nail heals.If you want to prevent infections, you can soak your nail in saltwater.You should talk to your doctor about using supplements to support the healing process because there is some evidence that biotin and other vitamins can help hair and nail growth.
Step 1: If your nail is torn, trim away the sharp edges.
If your nail is ripped off, use nail scissors to cut away the detached portion and trim any jagged edges.This will help prevent the nail from getting stuck on things, which could cause more pain and injury.You should rinse your nail after you trim it.Carefully pat the area dry with a clean towel and then apply a bandage to the injured nail.
Step 2: If the nail was removed, follow your doctor's instructions.
Special instructions for caring for the nail after the surgery are likely to be provided by the doctor.If you don't understand the doctor's instructions, ask for a written care sheet that you can take home.Your doctor can give you instructions on how to change bandages and monitor your nail bed for infections.They can prescribe or recommend drugs to help with the pain from the nail removal.
Step 3: Keep the injured toe propped up for the first 3 days.
You will most likely have swelling and inflammation in the injured nail bed after losing a nail.If you can, keep your foot propped up as much as possible during the first few days after the injury.Keep the toe above your heart.It's possible to lie down on the couch with your foot propped up, or in the bed with a couple of pillows.Rest the toe as much as possible.If you can help it, don't walk or put weight on the toe.
Step 4: If you lose the nail, don't wet your toe for 1-2 days.
Keep the area dry for the first few hours after you lose your nail.Put a plastic bag over your foot if you have to shower.If you have stitches in your nail bed, this is important.If it gets wet, change the bandage on your toe.
Step 5: After the first 2 days, wash your injured toe with clean water.
After your toe heals, you can start rinsing it with warm water.The area should be washed twice a day.This will help clean your bandages and clothing.Mild soap can be used to wash the area, but be careful not to use harsh perfumes or dyes that might dry out and irritate the wound.
Step 6: It's a good idea to apply a little petroleum jelly to your nail bed.
It is possible to promote faster healing by keeping the wound moist.Before bandaging your injured toe, gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the nail bed.The doctor may recommend using an antibiotic on the injured nail bed.
Step 7: While it grows in, use a bandage on your nail.
If your nail is exposed, put on a bandage.The bandage can help prevent infections, and it may keep the sensitive skin of your nail bed from rubbing against socks and shoes.Whenever it gets wet or dirty, change your bandage daily.You should wash your toe whenever you change the bandage.Wait until your new nail grows in enough to cover your nail bed to wear a bandage.While the injury is fresh, avoid bandages made with materials that might stick to the wound.It's a good idea to use a silk bandage and hold it in place with a toe sock.
Step 8: You should wear shoes that fit well.
You can bruise your toenails if you wear shoes that are too small.The process of regrowing the nail can be slowed by the small space your toes have to move in.Don't make sudden stops.When you're done running, slow down to a walk so that your toes don't hit the tips of your shoes.Wear cotton socks instead of pantyhose.If you have an injured toe, your doctor may recommend that you wear a shoe for a while to give it time to heal.
Step 9: As your nail grows, be patient.
You may be able to speed up your nail growth with vitamins and soaks, but you will need to wait for the nail to heal itself.If your progress seems slow, don't be concerned, it typically takes 18 months for a missing toenail to grow back.Don't chip at your nail while it's growing back.If it's a hangnail or an ingrown toenail, you shouldn't mess with it.
Step 10: It is a good idea to soak the nail in warm saltwater.
It is possible to clean your toe with a saltwater soak.If you want to make a solution of salt and warm water, place it in a large bowl or shallow tub.For 20 minutes, soak your toe in the solution.During the first few days after you lose your toenail, this treatment is the most effective.Ask your doctor if you need to wait more than 48 hours after the injury to do a soak.2 US quarts (1.9 L) of warm water can be used to make an Epsom salt soak.
Step 11: To encourage growth, treat the nail with vitamins E and E.
Studies show that vitamins E can help your nails grow faster.Add a thin layer of vitamins E oil or ointment to the affected area after your new nail starts growing.If you are using vitamin E oil as opposed to a cream or ointment, you should mix it with a little petroleum jelly or a gentle moisturizer to prevent irritation.For an hour after application, or until the oil has soaked into the skin, wear open-toed shoes.If you give your skin time to absorb the water, the effect will be stronger.
Step 12: Take a biotin supplement.
Hair and nails may grow more quickly if you take biotin.Weak and slow-growing nails are linked to a biotin deficiency.If you want your new nail to be strong and healthy, talk to your doctor about using a biotin supplement.Before starting a new supplement, talk to your doctor.Let them know if you are taking any other supplements.
Step 13: It is possible to increase nail growth with a diet that is rich in calcium and protein.
Eating a healthy diet can help keep your nails strong and healthy.Milk, cheese, yogurt, canned fish with bones, beans and lentils, almonds, and leafy greens are some of the calcium-rich foods you can eat to help heal your missing nail.Chicken breast, fish, nuts, and dairy are some of the healthiest sources of food.
Step 14: Better circulation in your feet can be promoted by a massage.
Poor circulation in your feet can make your nails weak.You can massage your feet at home using a foot roller or your hands.If you have a condition that affects circulation in your feet, a foot massage can be helpful.
Step 15: There are health conditions that might affect your nail growth.
If you have any underlying conditions that might make it harder for your nails to grow in properly, see your doctor to make sure they are being treated properly.Diabetes Psoriasis Toenail fungus is one of the conditions that can weaken or damage your nails.