1. Trim straight across
Do NOT round the corners
Leave the nail edge slightly visible
2. Use clean, sharp clippers
Toenail clippers (not fingernail clippers) work best
Clean with alcohol before and after use
3. Don’t cut too short
Leave about 1–2 mm of white nail
Cutting too short increases ingrown nail risk
4. File sharp edges
Use an emery board to smooth corners
Keep the edge straight
5. Trim after bathing
Nails are softer and easier to cut
For thick or fungal nails:
Soak feet 10–15 minutes first
Use heavy-duty clippers
For diabetics or poor circulation:
Avoid self-cutting if vision or flexibility is limited
See a podiatrist regularly for safe nail care
For kids:
Cut straight across and check often
Avoid cutting too short