Curling Nails? Discover the Surprising Causes & Fixes

Decoding Why Your Nails Are Curling Under: Causes and Solutions

It can be distressing to see your nails curling under. Not only can it be uncomfortable, but it also raises concerns about underlying health issues. This guide will explore the common causes behind this condition, scientifically known as pincer nails or involuted nails, and provide actionable steps you can take to address it.

Understanding Involuted Nails: What’s Happening?

What Does "Nails Curling Under" Actually Mean?

When we talk about nails curling under, we’re typically describing a condition where the edges of the nail plate curve inwards, towards the nail bed. In severe cases, this curvature can pinch the surrounding skin, leading to pain, inflammation, and even infection. The term "pincer nails" is also used because the nail resembles a pincer or claw.

Why is This Happening?

Several factors can contribute to nails curling under. It’s rarely a random occurrence and often points to either external pressures or internal changes. Let’s delve into the most common culprits.

Common Causes of Nails Curling Under

Trauma and Injury

• Repeated Injury: Stubbing your toe, dropping heavy objects on your feet, or wearing shoes that are too tight can damage the nail matrix (the area where the nail grows from). This damage can disrupt the normal growth pattern and lead to nail curvature.
• Specific Injuries: Direct trauma, like a fracture of the toe bone, can permanently alter the nail’s shape.

Improper Nail Care

• Cutting Nails Too Short: Severely shortening the nails, especially at the corners, encourages the skin around the nail to grow higher and can force the newly growing nail to curl inwards as it emerges.
• Aggressive Filing: Filing too deeply into the sides of the nail can weaken the nail structure and make it more prone to distortion as it grows.
• Artificial Nails: Frequent use of acrylic or gel nails, especially improper application or removal, can damage the natural nail and affect its growth pattern.

Footwear Choices

• Tight Shoes: Constricting shoes, especially those with pointed toes, exert constant pressure on the toenails. This can deform the nail plate over time, leading to the inward curvature.
• High Heels: High heels shift body weight forward, putting excessive pressure on the toes and increasing the likelihood of nail problems.

Medical Conditions

• Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis): Nail fungus can thicken and distort the nail, often causing it to curl under or become deformed in other ways. Diagnosis typically requires a laboratory test (nail clipping culture).
• Psoriasis: This skin condition can affect the nails, causing pitting, thickening, and distortion, including curvature.
• Other Skin Conditions: Eczema and other dermatological conditions affecting the nail bed can also disrupt nail growth.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the extremities, often seen in PAD, can affect nail growth and lead to abnormalities, including curling under.
• Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease can affect nail structure and growth.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as beta-blockers, can, in rare cases, contribute to nail changes.
• Genetics: Some individuals are simply genetically predisposed to developing involuted nails.

Age-Related Changes

• Decreased Circulation: As we age, blood circulation tends to decrease, which can impact nail health and growth.
• Nail Plate Thickening: Nails naturally thicken with age, which can make them more prone to curving.

How to Fix Curling Nails

Home Remedies and Preventative Measures

Remedy/Measure	Description	Frequency/Application
Proper Nail Trimming	Trim nails straight across, avoiding cutting into the corners. Use a quality nail clipper and file gently to smooth any sharp edges.	Every 1-2 weeks, or as needed
Comfortable Footwear	Wear shoes that fit well and have ample toe room. Avoid tight or pointed-toe shoes.	Daily
Foot Soaks	Soak feet in warm water with Epsom salts to soften the nails and surrounding skin. This can help relieve discomfort and prevent ingrown toenails.	2-3 times per week for 15-20 minutes
Moisturizing	Apply a moisturizing lotion or oil to the nails and cuticles daily to keep them hydrated and flexible.	Daily, especially after bathing
Padding	Use padding around the affected toe to reduce pressure from shoes. Moleskin or gel pads can be helpful.	As needed when wearing shoes
Tea Tree Oil (for fungus)	If a fungal infection is suspected, apply tea tree oil diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil) to the affected nail. Use only for suspected fungal infections.	2 times per day, after cleaning and drying the nail. It may take several months to see improvement and doctor consultation is advised before treating any suspected fungal infections.

Professional Treatments

• Podiatrist Consultation: A podiatrist can properly diagnose the cause of your nails curling under and recommend appropriate treatment options.
• Nail Braces (Orthonyxia): Similar to braces for teeth, nail braces are small devices attached to the nail to gradually correct its curvature. This is often a good option for more severe cases.
• Partial or Total Nail Avulsion: In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgically removing part or all of the nail. This is usually reserved for painful or infected nails that haven’t responded to other treatments.
• Fungal Infection Treatment: Prescription antifungal medications (oral or topical) may be necessary to treat fungal nail infections.

By understanding the potential causes and available solutions for nails curling under, you can take proactive steps to improve the health and appearance of your nails and prevent future problems. If home remedies don’t provide relief, or if you suspect an underlying medical condition, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.

So, hopefully, you now have a better understanding of why your nails might be curling under and what you can do about it! Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if things don’t improve. Take care of those nails!