Foot care: how to cut toenails correctly

Hygiene

• do not use too much soap
• do not soak feet as these remove the skins’ natural oil
• do not use chemicals further drying it out

• if the skin between the toes become water-logged (white and soggy) it can be treated with surgical spirit and cotton wool. This should be done once or twice a week to dry the area out. Never apply surgical spirit to broken skin.

Nail care

• Always cut nails where visibility is good and nails can be easily seen.
• Many people find it easier to cut nails after a bath as this softens nails.
• Cut the nails straight across or follow the natural shape of the end of the toe. Do not cut down the sides of nails as you could leave spikes or jagged edges or cut the skin. If the nail is thickened, cut along growth lines, as it is the area of least resistance.
• Do not cut the nails too short. Always leave some white free edge showing so there is reduced likelihood of cutting the skin.
• Do not try to cut the nail in one snip. “Nibble” across the nail with short cuts from one side to the other. Always use the points of the nipper.
• Protect your eyes: if you cannot wear goggles, hold the index finger of the hand stabilising the toe over the nail being cut.

Filing nails

• File the edge of the nail to remove rough edges.
• Filing the nails is an easier and safer option to cutting the nails.
• It may be easier to file the thick nails before trying to cut them.
• Do not let nails get too long as they may pierce the skin of adjacent toes.

Minor cuts (bleeding)

• If the skin is cut during nail cutting, apply pressure with cotton wool to stop the bleeding.
• Once the bleeding has stopped, apply an antiseptic spray and a dressing or plaster. Ensure you have not encircled the toe with a plaster read more