Treating a Nail Infection
Overview
Try home treatment if you think you have an infection in the skin around your nail.
- Soak your foot or hand 2 to 3 times each day.
Use a solution of 5 mL (1 tsp) of salt dissolved in 1 L (4 cups) warm water. After soaking, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a bandage.
- Do not try to remove any part of the affected nail.
- Remove an artificial nail if you think you have an infection around or under a nail.
Credits
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
