What to Know About Ingrown Toenails in Babies and Children

Signs of an ingrown toenail. Look for redness and pain in the affected area. The nail might look as if it is cutting through the skin or there might be a red, swollen area over the toenail.

Ingrown toenail treatment for babies and children. To treat a mild case at home, soak your child’s toe in warm, soapy water for 20 minutes three times a day and change the bandage every day. This can help soften the nail and allow the skin to heal. Gently nudge the nail up using a cotton swab. Applying antibiotic cream to the area after soaking can help prevent the area from getting infected.

When to see the doctor. If your child’s ingrown toenail doesn't improve within 2 to 3 days or looks infected, see a healthcare professional. This is doubly important if your child is younger than 2 years old. To treat a severe case of ingrown toenail in babies and children, the healthcare provider might trim or remove part or all of the affected nail. They may need to use anesthesia to numb the toe. The healthcare provider might provide instructions for ongoing home care.