How to Clip Thick Toenails

Toenails come in all shapes and sizes. While some have delicately thin toenails, others have thick, discolored nails. Thick nails are not only less attractive, they are much more difficult to clip and trim. Those with thick toenails can attest that clipping is not only a learned skill, but also an art. The way you clip your nails affects the way they look to others and the way they will grow in the future. Since toenails grow much slower than fingernails, it is important to clip them correctly from the beginning. Here is a guide to correctly clip extra thick toenails.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toenail clippers
• Nail file

1. Find the largest clippers you can find. Toenail clippers are the only way to go. Never attempt using fingernail clippers on thick toenails.

2. Soak your toes in warm water for five to 10 minutes. This will help soften the nail and allow you to more easily maneuver the clippers to cut.

3. Begin clipping the very tip of the toenail. Thick toenails tend to break further in as you clip. Clip shorter and shorter until you have reached your desired length.

4. Clip your toenail straight across. Rounded toenails promotes ingrown nails which can be painful.

5. Use your nail file to round off the thick, jagged edges of your toenails. Your pantyhose or socks will thank you.

Tips & Warnings

• For women, toenail polish is a nice finishing touch for thick toenails. It helps disguise the thickness.
• Some toenails are too thick for all clippers. If this is the case, begin to chip away at the nail with the clippers at an angle until the tip is thin enough to clip the traditional way.