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Myth or Fact: Cutting a V in Your Toenail Fixes Ingrown Nails
Ingrown toenails are a common and painful condition where the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing redness, swelling, and even infection. In an attempt to relieve the discomfort, many people turn to home remedies—one of the most persistent being the idea that cutting a "V" shape in the middle of the toenail will fix or prevent ingrown nails.
But is this long-standing piece of advice helpful or harmful? Let’s separate myth from fact and explore the science behind this widely believed remedy.
THE ORIGIN OF THE "V" NOTCH METHOD
The "V" cut remedy has been passed down through generations, likely because it's simple and gives the impression of relieving pressure. This folk wisdom has persisted in households, barbershops, and even some medical circles, often shared as a tried-and-true solution that costs nothing and requires only basic tools. The logic behind it goes like this: by cutting a small, triangular notch in the center of the nail, it will somehow encourage the edges to pull inward, away from the skin, and prevent them from growing into the toe. The theory suggests that the nail will naturally want to close this gap, drawing the problematic edges away from the inflamed tissue.
At first glance, this might seem plausible, especially given how intuitively appealing the mechanical explanation sounds. The idea that creating space in the middle would relieve tension at the sides aligns with basic principles we see in other materials. But the truth is more complicated—and less effective. Nail growth patterns are determined by the nail matrix at the base of the nail, not by forces or gaps created at the tip, making this approach fundamentally flawed from a biological standpoint.
✅ THE VERDICT: MYTH
Cutting a "V" in your toenail does not correct or prevent ingrown toenails. It's a myth that has no support from medical research or podiatric best practices.
Here’s why it doesn’t work:
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Nails Don’t “Grow Toward” the Center Cut
Toenails grow forward from the base (the nail matrix), not inward toward a missing section in the center. Making a V-shaped notch doesn’t influence the direction or shape of nail growth at the edges where ingrown problems occur. -
The Pressure Doesn’t Relieve the Skin
People often assume that the central V cut pulls the nail edges inward, relieving pressure from the sides. In reality, the edges of the nail continue to grow the same way—into the surrounding skin if they’re already predisposed to doing so. -
Risk of Damage or Infection
Cutting a V into your nail may weaken the nail plate, cause splitting, or make the nail more susceptible to trauma. It also increases the chance of creating small wounds that can lead to infection, especially if the tools used aren’t sterile.
WHAT ACTUALLY CAUSES INGROWN NAILS?
To understand why the V method doesn't work, it helps to know what causes ingrown nails in the first place. The underlying mechanisms are quite different from what the V-cut remedy assumes. Common causes include:
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Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the edges), which creates sharp corners that dig into surrounding skin
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Tight or ill-fitting shoes that compress the toes and force nail edges against the skin
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Injury or trauma to the nail from stubbing or sports activities, which can alter growth patterns
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Genetic predisposition (naturally curved or thick nails) that makes some individuals more susceptible
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Poor foot hygiene or chronic nail infections that cause swelling and inflammation
These factors work independently of any tension created at the nail's tip, which is why cutting a V-shaped notch cannot influence the problematic growth patterns occurring deeper in the nail structure.
What Really Helps?
Instead of the V cut, consider these safer and more effective methods:
Always trim nails straight across and avoid rounding the corners, leaving them slightly longer than the tip of your toe. This technique helps prevent the edges from growing into the skin by maintaining the nail's natural shape and preventing sharp corners from forming.
Soaking and Gentle Lifting
Soak the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes to soften the skin for the lifting procedure. Then, gently lift the edge of the ingrown nail with a clean piece of dental floss or cotton. This relieves pressure and helps the nail grow above the skin.
Wear Proper Footwear
Avoid tight shoes that compress your toes, as constant pressure forces the nail can redirect nail growth. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box and adequate room for your toes to move freely, which reduces pressure on the nails and allows them to grow in their natural direction.
If the ingrown toenail is severe, recurrent, or showing signs of infection (pus, severe pain, or spreading redness), it’s time to visit a podiatrist or foot care nurse. They can safely remove part of the nail or recommend minor procedures to correct chronic cases.
The idea that cutting a "V" in your toenail can fix or prevent ingrown nails is a myth—a well-intentioned but ineffective home remedy. Not only does it fail to address the actual problem, but it may also create new ones. Instead, focus on proper nail care, protective footwear, and evidence-based treatments. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a foot care professional. Your feet will thank you.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options.