A cracked toenail is a menace we're all better off without. While there are several causes for it, the result is always agonizing pain.
Usually, factors such as age, use of acetone-based solutions, and exposure to water may be responsible for chipped or cracked toenails. Of course, the most common cause is injury, and there's no escaping it.
Take me, for instance. No matter how careful I am, I end up hitting my toe on the corners of furniture. Also, as someone who's been on this planet for half a century, I realize my nails are no longer as robust as they used to be.
The good news is, there are some quick ways to fix a cracked toenail. Not only do they help soothe your existing condition but also prevent further damage.
Given how clumsy I am and how often I chip my toenail, you can trust my expertise on this topic. Plus, I've done ample research while tending to myself, and I'm always eager to share some tips with people who are as prone to toenail cracking.
Hi there! I'm Stacy. And, today, I will tell you all about how to fix a cracked toenail. So, let's begin!
How Can You Fix A Cracked Toenail?
Identify The Cause
First things first, you have to identify the underlying cause of the nail split and seek medical help if necessary. While injury, aging, and excess exposure to water aren't serious issues, if your nail cracks or chips often, it might be a sign of a more severe problem.
Often, people who suffer from nutritional deficiencies, psoriasis, thyroid disorder, and rheumatoid arthritis experience chipping of toenails. Moreover, toenails might even break due to the side effects of a particular medication.
Further, if you notice redness, swelling, or the onset of infection in your toe area, it may be best to consult a doctor. Besides, toenails grow back within eight weeks, but if you do not see any improvement or if the crack is getting worse, you should see a doctor immediately.
Once you identify the cause, you can proceed with the treatment accordingly.
How To Fix A Cracked Toenail
Here are some quick tips that will help you deal with a cracked toenail:
1. Use Finger Glue
This is my most trusted solution! If the crack occurs from stubbing your nail against a chair, the chances are that it may not extend up to the nail bed. In such cases, you may use nail glue (also called acrylic glue) to hold the nail in place.
First, you must clean and soak the nail in warm water to soften it. Then, apply a layer of acrylic glue over the area where the nail has broken off and press the cracked nail firmly against the glue for at least 60 seconds.
After that, use a Q-Tip to remove excess glue and clean the area before applying a clear coat of nail paint.
- SUPER STRONG - Salon Professional Nail Glue for Nail Tips, Press On Nails, Acrylic Nails and Fake Nails
- QUICK DRY - Water Resistant, Super Strong, Reliable and Long-Lasting Salon Professional Nail Glue
- BRUSH ON - Built-In Fine Precision Brush Applicator for Quick, Effortless, Accurate Application
- 3-5 Second Quick-Drying & Super Strong: Features a fast-drying formula that sets securely in just 3-5 seconds without requiring any UV light, making nail applications efficient and hassle-free.With exceptional adhesive strength, this strong nail glue can last 2-4 weeks without lifting when proper nail preparation is done.Not only suitable for DIY nail art, but also perfect for professional nail salons
- Big Capacity: There are totally 12 pieces of acrylic nail tip glues. Such sufficient quantity that can satisfy your needs at home using supplies or salon necessity. 0.07oz/2g Each per tube, 12pcs in one kit. Usually, each nail tip may need 0.05-0.1g glue, one tube of 0.07oz/2g glue can be used for 20 to 40 nail tips, so 12pcs glues can be used 24-48 times manicures.
- Healthy Material: MEKK nail glue is made with natural resin,ethyl cyanoacrylate, and is MSDS certified. The formula features low odor, low irritation, non-toxic ingredients, is free from formaldehyde, cruelty-free, and vegan—safe and gentle on natural nails. Its transparent texture dries clear without whitening, leaving a crystal-like finish
2. Use A Tea Bag
This one is a temporary solution but still keeps the nail in place and prevents further cracking. Wash and dry your nail, as I have mentioned earlier, and then apply a thin layer of glue over it.
While the glue is still sticky, cut out a small piece of paper from a tea bag and lay it on your nail. Wait for 30-60 seconds before trimming off any edges of the tea bag material. Then, you can apply another layer of glue and let it dry off before filing the nail carefully. Then, use a thin coat of polish over the nail.
3. File Or Trim The Nail
Again, this method is only helpful if the crack doesn't reach the nail bed. Use a clean filer to file your nail, moving it in the direction of the crack. Be gentle and soak your nail in warm water before filing, as dry nails might further crack during filing.
Alternatively, you may wait for the nail to grow past your fingertip and then trim it off. This way, you may avoid further cracking or splits.
How To Prevent Toenail Splits?
I have elaborated on the methods you can use to fix toenail splits, but there are ways of avoiding them altogether.
For one, avoid excessive exposure to hot water as it weakens and dries your nail out. Besides, you should apply Vitamin E or any other moisturizing oil on your cuticles to moisturize the nails.
You should also eat a nutritious diet and take Vitamin B supplements as lack of Vitamin B is one of the most common causes of nail chipping. Moreover, only trim your nails after a shower since they are softest then and unlikely to crack.
How To Treat Severe Splits?
Sometimes, the cracked toenail may extend up to the nail bed. In such cases, you may experience severe pain or even bleeding. Therefore, it becomes essential to care for the nail properly.
Wash the area with lukewarm water or soak it in a water and soap mixture to kill germs. Then, if it is still bleeding, apply first aid and wrap your toe with a gauze layer. When the bleeding subsides, use an OTC ointment over your toe and cover it with a bandage.
However, if the bleeding does not stop or you cannot walk, seek immediate medical help as there might be some damage to the nerve or bone below the nail.
Remember, severe splits should not be dealt with lightly as they can be due to a major injury or some underlying condition that requires immediate diagnosis. Prompt medical attention will prevent further aggravation of the problem. So, do not delay a visit to the doctor.
Final Words
With that, it’s a wrap.
I hope this brief guide has armed you with the information needed to deal with a cracked toenail. If you experience excessive pain, some over-the-counter pain killers may be used for inflammation and pain.Â
Besides, apply natural oils like oregano, tea tree, cinnamon, or coconut to hydrate your nails and prevent chipping. In addition, natural oils keep fungal infections at bay. Lastly (and this might sound rich coming from me), be careful while moving around and avoid stubbing your toe.Â
I’ll take your leave now. Until next time, take care!