So good! Thanks nana!

Sometimes the best advice doesn’t come from a clinic.

It comes from someone who’s been taking care of her feet for decades and knows what actually works.

Thick toenails are surprisingly common. They can look yellowed, feel hard to trim, and sometimes press uncomfortably against shoes. While medical treatments exist, many people start with gentle at-home care to improve how their nails look and feel.

One simple routine — the kind passed down from a practical grandmother — focuses on softening, cleaning, and gradually thinning the nail surface in a safe way.

Before we get into the steps, it helps to understand why toenails thicken in the first place.

Why Toenails Become Thick

Thick toenails don’t happen randomly.

Common causes include:

Fungal infections
Aging
Repeated pressure from tight shoes
Nail injuries
Psoriasis
Circulation changes

As we age, nail growth can slow and keratin layers may build up unevenly. Minor trauma — even from long walks or sports — can also change how nails grow over time.

While thick nails are often cosmetic, they can become uncomfortable if neglected.

Nana’s Softening and Smoothing Routine

This method focuses on gradual improvement — not aggressive removal.

The goal is to:

Soften the nail
Clean the nail surface
Gently reduce thickness over time
Keep the surrounding skin healthy

It’s simple, affordable, and uses common household items.

What You’ll Need

Warm water
White vinegar
Baking soda
A foot basin
A soft nail brush
A pumice stone or nail file
Moisturizing lotion or oil

No specialty tools required.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soften First

Fill a basin with warm (not hot) water.

Add ½ cup of white vinegar.

Soak feet for about 15–20 minutes.

This helps soften the nail plate and makes trimming easier.

2. Gently Clean

After soaking, use a soft nail brush to gently clean the nail surface and surrounding skin.

Avoid aggressive scrubbing.

3. Apply Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a thick paste.

Apply to toenails and let sit for about 10 minutes.

Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

4. File Carefully

Using a pumice stone or nail file:

Gently smooth the nail surface
Reduce thickness gradually
Avoid filing too deeply

Less is more. Over-filing can weaken the nail.

5. Moisturize

Finish with a moisturizing lotion or oil.

Hydrated nails are less brittle and easier to manage.

Why This Routine May Help

Each step plays a role:

Warm water + vinegar may help soften hardened nail layers
Baking soda acts as a mild exfoliant
Filing gradually reduces excess thickness
Moisturizing supports flexibility and comfort

Consistency is key. Improvements are gradual, not overnight.

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