How Do You Clip Toenails?
Proper toenail clipping is crucial for preventing ingrown toenails and maintaining foot health. The key is to cut your toenails straight across, following the natural shape of the nail.
You can use either nail clippers or nail scissors. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, nail nippers are particularly effective for thicker toenails.[1] A YouTube video demonstrates the use of nail nippers to cut toenails in a straight line.[2]
- Straight Across: Multiple sources emphasize cutting straight across to avoid curved edges that increase the risk of ingrown toenails.[3, 4, 5, 6, 7] This helps ensure the nails grow forward naturally.
- Two Cuts: For easier handling, some people prefer to cut their toenails in two stages. Healthline suggests this as a method of making the process simpler and more controlled.[3]
- Cleanliness: Maintain clean tools and hands to prevent infections.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common problem resulting from improper nail trimming. Avoid cutting the nails too short or rounding the corners. Always trim nails straight across.[3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
When to Clip
Clip your toenails when they start to extend beyond the tip of your toe or interfere with your footwear.[8] Regular trimming is essential for preventing problems.
If You Can't Reach
If you have difficulty reaching your toenails, consider seeking assistance from a family member, friend, or a professional pedicure service.[9]
References:
[1] Mayo Clinic. How to trim thickened toenails. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/nails/art-20546831
[2] YouTube Video: How To Cut Your Toenails - Podiatrist's View (This reference is a video and lacks a specific URL. The content was described in the prompt.)
[3] Healthline. How to Cut Toenails: Step-by-Step Instructions. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-cut-toenails
[4] Arizona Foot Center. Here's How to Cut Your Toenails to Prevent Ingrown Toenails. https://www.arizonafootcenter.com/blog/heres-how-to-cut-your-toenails-to-prevent-ingrown-toenails
[5] Your Foot Docs. 4 Simple Tips to Correctly Cut Your Toenails. https://yourfootdocs.com/trimming-toenails-correctly/
[6] TC Foot and Ankle. Here's How to Clip Your Toenails to Prevent an Ingrown Toenail. https://www.tcfootandankle.com/blog/heres-how-to-clip-your-toenails-to-prevent-an-ingrown-toenail
[7] Reddit. YSK to cut your toenails straight across rather than curved to prevent ingrown toenails. https://www.reddit.com/r/YouShouldKnow/comments/d5qh3a/ysk_to_cut_your_toenails_straight_across_rather/
[8] Quora. When and where do you cut your toenails? https://www.quora.com/When-and-where-do-you-cut-your-toenails-Ive-lived-with-people-my-whole-life-and-Ive-never-seen-another-person-cut-their-toenails
[9] Quora. How to cut your toenails if you can't reach them. https://www.quora.com/How-do-you-cut-your-toenails-if-you-cant-reach-them
