Having thick toenails can be uncomfortable and even painful. While some people are just prone to having thicker nails, there are things you can do to help thin out thick toenails and keep them looking neat and tidy.
What causes thick toenails?
There are a few potential causes of abnormally thick toenails:
- Genetics – Some people inherit a tendency toward thick nails from their parents.
- Fungal infections – Toenail fungus can cause the nail to thicken as it grows out.
- Poor circulation – Reduced blood flow to the feet may affect nail growth.
- Diabetes – High blood sugar can affect nail growth.
- Aging – Nails tend to thicken with age.
- Improper nail care – Incorrect nail trimming can lead to thickened nails.
- Injuries – Trauma to the toenail can disrupt normal growth.
- Nutritional deficiencies – Lack of vitamins and minerals may contribute.
If you have chronically thick toenails, it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist or dermatologist to determine the underlying cause. Treating any fungal infections, improving circulation, and controlling diabetes can all help improve nail thickness.
Methods to thin out thick toenails
If genetics or aging are causing your nails to thicken, consistent proper nail care is the best way to keep them looking neat. Here are some methods you can try at home to thin out thick toenails:
1. Soak nails before trimming
Soaking your feet in warm water can soften nails and make them easier to thin out. Try soaking your feet for 10-15 minutes before trimming nails to allow them to soften.
2. Trim nails straight across
Use nail clippers or sharp nail scissors to trim thick nails. Cut them straight across to avoid rounding off the edges. Square tips help prevent ingrown toenails.
3. File nails gently
Use a nail file to gently thin down overly thick nails after trimming them. File in one direction starting from the outside edges in toward the center of the nail. Be careful not to file too aggressively as this can damage the nail.
4. Use a foot file
Specialized foot files or paddles can be used to thin down very thick toenails. Look for ones made of metal or diamond dust. Gently file across the top of the nail from side to side to thin it out.
5. Apply a urea cream
Urea is a compound found in many foot creams that helps soften and exfoliate thick nails. Applying a urea-based cream daily and covering nails with cotton socks can help thin them out over time.
6. Try a vinegar soak
The acidic nature of vinegar can help break down thickened keratin in nails. Try soaking nails in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water for 15-20 minutes.
7. Use a teaspoon to gently scrape under the nail
Placing the curved edge of a teaspoon under the tip of the nail and gently scraping toward the cuticle can help thin the dead keratin and buildup from underneath the nail.
8. Apply tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antimicrobial agent. Applying it to nail beds under the tip of the nail can help thin thick nails caused by fungal infections.
9. Take biotin supplements
Biotin is a B vitamin that supports healthy nail growth. Taking a daily biotin supplement can help improve nail thickness over time.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if at-home remedies aren’t helping thin out thick nails after several months. Additional treatments are available:
- Prescription antifungal medications
- Oral medications to improve nail growth
- Laser therapy to reduce thickness
- Partial nail removal (in severe cases)
Seeking medical treatment is especially important if the nails are discolored, brittle, or detached from the nail bed, as these can be signs of toenail fungus or nail disease.
Preventing thick toenails
While some thickness is hereditary, you can take steps to prevent excessive thickening:
- Trim nails regularly
- Avoid trauma to nails
- Wear properly fitted shoes
- Alternate shoes to allow them to fully dry
- Treat fungal infections early
- Improve circulation to feet
- Manage diabetes and thyroid issues
- Eat a balanced diet
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if home remedies aren’t helping thin out thick nails after several months. Additional treatments are available:
- Prescription antifungal medications
- Oral medications to improve nail growth
- Laser therapy to reduce thickness
- Partial nail removal (in severe cases)
Seeking medical treatment is especially important if the nails are discolored, brittle, or detached from the nail bed, as these can be signs of toenail fungus or nail disease.
How to choose nail care products
There are many over-the-counter products available to help with nail care and thinning thick nails. Here are some tips for choosing effective products:
- Look for products containing urea – This is an effective way to thin and soften nails.
- Choose an antifungal polish if fungus is the cause – These contain antifungal medications.
- Select gentle files and buffers – Avoid metal files or overly abrasive buffers.
- Look for natural oils – Tea tree, coconut, and vitamin E oil provide nutrients.
- Avoid formaldehyde – This can cause brittleness and peeling.
- Read reviews – Check feedback from others with thick nails.
- Compare active ingredients – Make sure the product contains ingredients to treat your specific nail condition.
When in doubt, consult with your dermatologist or podiatrist for personalized product recommendations.
Lifestyle habits for healthy nails
In addition to proper nail care, certain lifestyle habits can promote healthy nails and prevent excessive thickening:
- Quit smoking – Smoking restricts blood flow.
- Eat a balanced diet – Especially one rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Stay hydrated – Dehydration can lead to brittle nails.
- Limit alcohol – Heavy alcohol use can inhibit nutrient absorption.
- Be active – Exercise boosts circulation.
- Use sunscreen – UV rays damage nails.
- Avoid nail polish remover – Use an acetate-free formula.
- Wear gloves – For wet work to avoid damage.
- Take breaks from gel manicures – These can thin nails over time.
Conclusion
While thick toenails can be tricky to manage, consistency is key when it comes to thinning them out. Soaking before trimming, filing nails properly, applying urea creams, and using antifungal ingredients can all help reduce thickness. See a doctor if significant thickness persists despite home care. With diligent nail care habits and healthy lifestyle choices, it’s possible to maintain neat-looking toenails.
