Toenail fungus and ingrown toenails are two different conditions, but they are both among the most common nail problems we treat. Toenail fungus causes gradual discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail, while an ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation. Both respond well to treatment — the key is catching them early and choosing the right approach for how advanced the problem is.
Because toenails grow slowly, fungal infections and ingrown nails often develop gradually and can be easy to dismiss at first. By the time the nail looks noticeably different or the toe becomes painful, the problem has usually been building for a while. Below, our podiatrists explain what causes each condition, how to recognize them, and when at-home care is enough versus when it's time to come in.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) develops when fungal organisms take hold in and around the nail, causing changes to its color, thickness, and texture. Because nails grow slowly, the infection progresses gradually — which is part of why it can be easy to overlook in its early stages.
Common risk factors include prolonged moisture exposure from closed, sweaty shoes, aging, a weakened immune system, and small injuries to the nail that give fungus an opening to multiply. Public, damp environments like locker rooms and pool decks are also common places to pick up the fungus that causes it.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus usually starts subtly and worsens over time. Watch for:
- Nail discoloration — often turning white, yellow, or brown
- Thickening of the nail
- Nails that become brittle and crumble at the edges
- A nail that lifts or separates from the nail bed
- A mild odor in more advanced cases
How is toenail fungus treated?
Treatment depends on how advanced the infection is.
Mild cases
Over-the-counter topical antifungal medications, applied consistently, can help mild infections. It's important to have realistic expectations — because nails grow slowly, it can take months to see meaningful improvement, and consistency matters more than any single application.
Advanced cases
When topical treatment isn't enough, prescription oral antifungal medications, in-office laser treatment, or partial nail removal may be recommended. Your podiatrist will weigh your overall health, medication history, and the severity of the infection before recommending a next step.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail develops when the edge or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of straight across, causing irritation, inflammation, and often pain and tenderness along the nail fold. Tight shoes, nail trauma, and cutting nails too short or with rounded edges are common contributors.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
Early, mild cases
- Soaking the foot in warm water several times a day
- Avoiding pressure on the toe from tight shoes
- Trimming nails straight across, not rounded at the corners
- Wearing roomy, properly fitted shoes while it heals
Persistent or recurring cases
When an ingrown nail keeps coming back, becomes infected, or doesn't improve with home care, an in-office procedure to remove part of the nail — or, for recurring problems, part of the nail root — can provide a long-term solution. This is a quick, minimally invasive procedure done under local anesthesia in our office.
How can I prevent both conditions?
Good nail hygiene goes a long way toward preventing both fungal infections and ingrown nails:
- Trim nails straight across rather than rounding the corners
- Keep feet clean and dry, and change socks if they become damp
- Wear breathable, well-fitting shoes with enough room in the toe box
- Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas
- Don't share nail clippers or foot care tools
When should I see a podiatrist?
See a podiatrist if nail discoloration or thickening is spreading, if an ingrown nail keeps recurring, or if you notice persistent pain, drainage, redness, or swelling around the nail. These signs can indicate a deeper infection that needs professional treatment. If you have diabetes or circulation problems, any nail change or foot injury should be evaluated promptly, since minor nail issues can become more serious for these patients. You can request an appointment at either of our Northern Utah offices.
Medically reviewed by the physicians at Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained podiatrists provide foot and ankle care in Farmington and South Ogden, Utah. This article is for general education and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.