Treating a Nail Infection

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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 1 tsp (5mL) of salt dissolved in 4 cups (1 L) 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.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: March 21, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.