How to Drain Pus from an Ingrown Toenail Safely at Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

If your toe hurts and looks red or swollen, you might have an ingrown toenail. Sometimes, pus can form. Pus means there is an infection. You may wonder how to drain pus from ingrown toenail safely at home. This guide will help you do it the right way.

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon, and our caring team want to help you take good care of your feet. If you have any questions, you can always contact us or make an appointment at our Scottsdale, AZ office.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail and Why Does It Have Pus?

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of your toenail grows into the skin near it. This can hurt a lot. The skin may get red and swollen. If germs get inside, the toe can get infected.

When infection happens, your body fights it. Pus forms as a sign of this fight. Pus looks like a thick, yellow or green liquid. It means the area needs cleaning and care.

A study by the American Academy of Dermatology says that many people get infections with ingrown toenails (source). So, it’s important to treat it well.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies and Wash Your Hands

Before you start, get everything ready:

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• A clean bowl or tub
• Cotton balls or clean cloth
• A needle or pin (sterilized)
• Antibiotic cream
• Bandages
• A clean towel

Make sure to wash your hands well with soap and water before touching your toe. Clean hands help stop more germs from getting in.

Step 2: Soak Your Foot to Soften the Skin

Soaking your foot makes the skin soft. This helps the pus come out easier.

• Fill the bowl with warm water.
• Add some mild soap.
• Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Gently dry your feet with a clean towel.

Do this 2 or 3 times a day. It will help reduce pain and swelling.

Step 3: How to Drain Pus from Ingrown Toenail Safely

Now, you are ready to drain the pus. Follow these safe steps:

• Sterilize your needle or pin by wiping it with rubbing alcohol or boiling it for a few minutes.
• Gently press the swollen area with clean cotton.
• Carefully poke the skin with the needle where the pus is trapped. Do NOT cut or dig deep.
• Let the pus slowly come out on its own.
• Use cotton or gauze to wipe the pus away.

Stop if you feel strong pain or bleeding. Don’t force it.

Step 4: Clean and Protect Your Toe

After draining the pus, clean the toe carefully:

• Wash the area with warm, soapy water.
• Pat it dry gently with a clean towel.
• Put some antibiotic cream on the toe.
• Cover it with a clean bandage.

Change the bandage every day or if it gets dirty or wet. Keep your foot clean to stop infection.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, home care is not enough. See your doctor if you:

• Feel more pain or swelling.
• See redness spreading.
• I have a fever.
• Cannot drain the pus safely.
• Have diabetes or other health problems.

Dr. Kris A. DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona can help. Our office in Scottsdale, AZ, is ready to give you safe care.

Why Safe Drainage Matters

Improperly draining pus can make the infection worse. A study in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research says that wrong treatment can cause serious infections that need surgery.

Doing it gently and cleanly keeps you safe and helps your toe heal faster.

Summary: How to Drain Pus from Ingrown Toenail

To safely drain pus from an ingrown toenail at home:

1. Wash your hands and gather clean tools.
2. Soak your feet to soften the skin.
3. Use a sterilized needle to gently drain the pus.
4. Clean the toe and cover it with a bandage.

Watch for signs that you need a doctor’s help.

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci and our friendly staff want to keep your feet healthy. Contact us today if you need expert care or have questions.

FAQs

How do I sterilize a needle at home?

You can boil it in water for 5 minutes or wipe it with rubbing alcohol.

Can I drain pus without soaking my foot?

No. Soaking softens the skin and helps pus drain more safely.

What if my toe is very red and swollen?

See a doctor right away. This may mean a serious infection.

Can I use any kind of antibiotic cream?
It’s best to use an antibiotic cream recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Some creams work better for skin infections and can help prevent the infection from getting worse.

How long does it take for an ingrown toenail with pus to heal?
Healing time can vary, but usually it takes about 1 to 2 weeks with proper care. If it doesn’t improve or gets worse, see a doctor for more treatment.

If you want to learn more or need help with your ingrown toenail, please contact us today. We are here for you in Scottsdale, AZ.