Topical treatment for toe paronychia

A cream or ointment is applied to the affected skin, but it may not reach a sealed pocket of pus or address pressure from an ingrown nail. A clinician may select an antibacterial product for a suitable bacterial presentation, an antifungal product when yeast is suspected, or a different treatment when irritation is the main problem. [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/) explains one possible cause. Persistent or recurrent swelling needs an examination rather than repeated trial of products.

Topical products can also irritate broken skin or cause an allergic reaction. Use only a product recommended for your situation, follow its directions, and stop and seek advice if burning, rash, or swelling spreads beyond the original area.

Clean gently, pat dry, and apply a prescribed product in the thin layer and schedule advised. Wash hands before and after application, keep the tube tip off the skin, and use a clean dressing if rubbing makes the area sore. Wear shoes with room around the toe and change damp socks. Do not layer several medicated creams, use leftover antibiotics, or cover a wet infected fold tightly without advice. If pus is trapped, topical care alone may not be enough; [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/) may be discussed after assessment.

Contact a clinician if topical care is not helping, the pain is increasing, redness is spreading, drainage is building, or the nail edge is digging into the skin. Seek prompt care for fever, red streaks, severe swelling, numbness, or a pale, blue, or grey toe. People with diabetes, circulation problems, reduced sensation, or immune suppression should obtain advice early. A clinician may consider [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) when a topical product is insufficient or unsuitable.

Ask which cause is most likely, whether the skin is open or contains a collection, how much product to apply, whether a dressing is appropriate, and when the treatment should be reassessed.