2. Cut nails straight across, rounding them slightly at the tips for maximum strength. Be sure to use sharp nail scissors or clippers. Filing the nails into points weakens them.
3. Keep nails shaped and free of snags by filing with a "fine" textured file.
4. Avoid biting fingernails, and do not remove the cuticle.
5. Trim toenails regularly to keep them short. This minimizes trauma and injury.
6. Soak feet in warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt per pint of water) for five to 10 minutes when toenails are thick and difficult to cut, then apply urea or lactic acid cream. This softens the nails, making them easier to trim.
7. Avoid "digging-out" ingrown toenails, especially if they are already infected and sore. See a dermatologist for treatment.
8. Wear shoes that fit properly and alternate pairs.
9. Report any nail irregularities to your dermatologist. Nail changes, swelling, and pain could signal a serious problem.
10. Be especially vigilant of nail problems if you have diabetes or poor circulation. At the first sign of a problem, see a dermatologist.
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