After you trim your nail, rinse it in cool water for 20 minutes. Carefully pat the area dry with a clean towel and add a little petroleum jelly, then cover the injured nail with a bandage. [2] X Trustworthy Source University of Wisconsin Health Integrated healthcare system of the University of Wisconsin focused on treating and providing support to patients and public health initiatives Go to source

For example, your doctor may give you instructions on how to change your bandages and monitor your nail bed for signs of infection. They may also prescribe or recommend medications to help you manage any pain from the nail removal.

For example, you might lie down on the couch with your foot propped up on the arm, or lie in bed with your foot on a couple of pillows. Rest the toe as much as possible. Avoid walking or putting weight on the toe if you can help it.

This is especially important if you have stitches in your injured nail bed. If you have a bandage on your toe, change it if it gets wet.

You can also wash the area with mild soap, but take care not to use anything with harsh perfumes or dyes that might dry out and irritate the wound.

Your doctor might also recommend using an antibiotic ointment on the injured nail bed. [5] X Research source

Change your bandage daily, or whenever it gets wet or dirty. Whenever you change the bandage, wash your toe and apply a new layer of petroleum jelly. Keep wearing a bandage until your new nail grows in enough to mostly cover your nail bed. While the injury is fresh, avoid adhesive bandages or bandages made with fibrous materials that might stick to the wound (such as gauze). One good option it to use a silk bandage and hold it in place with a toe sock. [7] X Research source

Also refrain from making sudden stops. When you’re done running, for instance, steadily slow to a walk so that you don’t pitch forward, and your toes don’t hit the tips of your shoes. Wear breathable cotton socks instead of tights or pantyhose. Your doctor may recommend wearing an orthopedic shoe for a while to protect your toe and give it a chance to heal.

While your nail is growing back, don’t disturb it or chip at it. It may be tempting to pull off unneeded bits of nail, but you shouldn’t mess with it unless it’s a hangnail or an ingrown toenail.

This treatment is most effective during the first few days after you lose your toenail. You may need to wait 24-48 hours after the initial injury before you can safely do a soak, so ask your doctor for instructions. You can also make an Epsom salt soak using 2 teaspoons (10 g) of Epsom salts with 2 US quarts (1. 9 L) of warm water. [10] X Research source

If you’re using vitamin E oil as opposed to a cream or ointment, consider mixing it with a little petroleum jelly or a gentle moisturizer to prevent irritation and help hydrate the area. Wear open-toed shoes (or no shoes) for an hour after application, or until the oil has soaked into the skin. The effect will be stronger if you give your skin time to absorb the moisture.

Always talk to your doctor before starting any new dietary supplement. Let them know about any other supplements or medications you are currently taking.

Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, canned fish with bones (such as sardines), beans and lentils, almonds, and leafy greens. [15] X Research source Healthy sources of protein, such as poultry breast, fish, nuts, and dairy.

Foot massage can be especially helpful if you have a condition like diabetes that interferes with circulation in your feet.

Diabetes Psoriasis Toenail fungus Repetitive toe injuries (e. g. , from running or playing sports)