My nana swears by this trick to reduce the look of thick toenails. Here’s how it works

Nana’s Trusted Trick for Improving Thick Toenails

My nana’s method for improving the appearance of thick toenails involves a simple routine that uses everyday household items. This remedy has been passed down through generations and has proven to be effective for many people.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need:

• Warm water
• White vinegar (half a cup)
• Baking soda
• A large basin or container for soaking your feet
• A soft-bristled nail brush
• Pumice stone or nail file
• Moisturizing cream or oil (like coconut or tea tree oil)

Step-by-Step Guide to Nana’s Trick

1. Prepare a Foot Bath: Fill a basin or container with warm water. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the water and mix well. Vinegar has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a powerful yet gentle cleanser.
2. Soak Your Feet: Submerge your feet in the vinegar-water solution for about 20 minutes. This step helps soften the nails and makes the subsequent steps more effective.
3. Gentle Cleaning: After soaking, use a soft-bristled nail brush to gently clean your toenails and the surrounding skin. This helps remove any surface debris and promotes healthier nails.
4. Apply a Baking Soda Paste: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Apply this paste directly to your toenails and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Baking soda acts as a mild exfoliant and helps balance the pH of the nail surface, preventing fungal growth.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse your feet thoroughly with clean water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Ensuring your feet are completely dry is crucial to preventing fungal infections.
6. File and Smooth the Nails: Using a pumice stone or a nail file, gently file the thickened nails. Be careful not to over-file, as this can weaken the nail and lead to discomfort. Focus on smoothing the surface and edges.
7. Moisturize: Finish the routine by applying a moisturizing cream or oil to your nails and the surrounding skin. Coconut oil and tea tree oil are excellent choices due to their hydrating and antimicrobial properties.