As a parent, you may wonder if ingrown toenails are something that can affect your little one. The short answer is yes—babies can indeed get ingrown toenails.

To aid you in understanding this issue, we sought insights from Leah Alexander, a seasoned paediatrician with 23 years of experience in treating patients from infants to young adults.

How Do Babies Get Ingrown Toenails?

Babies can get ingrown toenails due to the high-fat content in their toes, which may cover the growing nail and cause it to stick into the fat. Signs of an ingrown toenail include redness, inflammation, pus draining, or yellow crust formation.

Treatment consists of soaking the feet in warm water, massaging the impacted area and allowing the nail to grow over the extra fat pad. Cutting the nail too close to the skin should be avoided. Infants with a history of ingrown nails on one toe could be at a higher risk of recurring issues. Also, poorly fitting shoes can contribute to this problem.

Consider seeking medical advice if the toe becomes increasingly red or swollen or if pus starts draining.

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Nurturing Healthy Little Feet

While ingrown toenails can affect babies, understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and taking preventive measures can help you maintain your babies' foot health. Regular foot checks, appropriate shoe choices, and early intervention can minimize the risk of ingrown toenails and promote overall comfort for the little ones.

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