Toenail growing under toenail can be painful and scary. Discover the real causes, warning signs, and gentle solutions in this honest 2026 guide.
Table of Contents
Featured Snippet Hook:
Toenail growing under toenail happens when a new nail starts growing from the nail matrix before the old nail falls off.
It’s commonly caused by nail injury, pressure from tight shoes, or nail bed damage, and often heals naturally with proper care.
Introduction:
Noticing a toenail growing under another toenail can be alarming and uncomfortable. Many people panic, thinking it’s a serious infection or permanent damage. In reality, this condition is often linked to nail trauma, pressure, or the natural nail regrowth process.
In this guide, I’ll explain why a new toenail grows under the old one, what it means for your health, and how to treat it safely before it gets worse.
What Does It Mean When a New Toenail Grows Under the Old One?
Toenail growing under toenail means a new nail is forming from the nail matrix while the old nail hasn’t fallen off yet. This creates a double toenail condition where one nail grows beneath another.
In my experience, this often happens after trauma or long-term pressure. The body tries to replace a damaged nail, but the old one sticks around longer than expected. This isn’t rare — and it doesn’t always mean infection.
What Causes a Toenail to Grow Under Another Toenail?
The most common causes include:
- Nail trauma (sports injuries, dropped objects)
- Tight shoes causing constant pressure
- Nail matrix damage
- Repeated pedicure trauma
- Previous nail loss or cracking
When I tested tighter running shoes years ago, my big toenail started lifting. A few months later, a new toenail grew under the old toenail — classic pressure damage.
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Can Fungal Infections Cause a Toenail to Grow Under Another?
Yes, sometimes, but not always. Toenail fungus usually makes nails thick, yellow, and brittle. However, fungus alone rarely causes a new nail to grow underneath.
Many people think it’s fungus, but I’ve seen cases where there was no infection at all. If you notice bad smell, color change, or crumbling, fungus may be involved. Otherwise, trauma is the bigger reason.
Toenail Growing Under Toenail After Injury: What to Do?
If this started after injury, follow these steps:
- Keep the nail clean and dry
- Do not rip off the old nail
- Trim only loose edges
- Wear wide, open footwear
- Monitor pain or pressure buildup
Personally, leaving the old nail alone helped the new nail grow straight instead of crooked.
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Can a Toenail Growing Under Another Heal on Its Own?
Yes, many times it heals on its own. Toenails grow very slowly. From my experience, it can take 6 to 12 months to fully replace the old nail.
If there is no pain, redness, or infection, your body usually handles it. Problems start when pressure stays or the nail gets infected. Patience is key here — nails don’t like rushing.
Toenail Layers Growing on Top of Each Other: Treatment and Care
When nails grow in layers, gentle care works best. Do not cut deep or use sharp tools. I learned this the hard way. Light filing, clean trimming of loose edges, and moisturizing the nail area helps.
Avoid nail polish and fake nails during healing. If pain starts or pressure increases, professional nail care is safer than home treatment.
How to Get Rid of a Toenail Growing Under Another Nail
Best treatment options:
- Professional nail thinning
- Medical nail removal (if painful)
- Antifungal treatment (only if confirmed)
- Pressure-relief footwear
👉 Never force the old nail off at home. That’s how infections start.
How to Treat a Toenail Growing Under the Toenail Safely
Safe treatment checklist:
- No pulling or tearing
- No metal tools under the nail
- No DIY chemical treatments
- Use sterile nail clippers only
When I followed this approach, my nail grew normally without deformity.
How to Prevent a Toenail From Growing Under Another Nail
Prevention is easier than treatment. Wear properly fitting shoes, cut nails straight, and avoid aggressive pedicures.
I now always check shoe width before buying — lesson learned. Treat nail infections early and don’t ignore toe injuries. Small habits save you from long-term nail problems.
Toenail Growing Under Toenail: When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you notice:
- Increasing pain
- Redness or pus
- Severe thickening
- Nail discoloration spreading
- Trouble walking
Doctors can safely remove the old nail and protect the nail bed — something home care can’t do.
Final Thoughts
Toenail growing under toenail looks alarming, but it’s usually your body trying to heal. I’ve seen this resolve completely with the right care — and worsen when ignored.
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Your nails tell a story. Make sure it ends healthy.
FAQs
- Why is my toenail growing underneath another nail?
- This usually happens when the nail matrix starts producing a new nail before the old one falls off. It’s commonly caused by injury, pressure, or nail trauma rather than infection.
- Is toenail growing under toenail dangerous?
- Most cases are not dangerous. However, pain, infection, or severe thickening may require medical treatment to avoid permanent nail damage.
- How long does it take for a toenail to heal?
- Toenails grow slowly. Full healing usually takes 9 to 12 months, depending on age, circulation, and nail matrix health.
- Can I remove the old toenail myself?
- No. Removing it at home increases infection risk. Only loose edges should be trimmed carefully.
- Is this caused by fungus?
- Sometimes, but not always. Fungus thickens nails, while trauma triggers new nail growth underneath.
- Will the new toenail grow normally?
- Yes, if the nail matrix is healthy and pressure is removed early.
Author Box
Haroon Tayyab is a nail care expert with over 6 years of experience in the beauty industry. He specializes in nail maintenance and design, sharing tips, trends, and product reviews. When he’s not creating nail art, Haroon keeps his followers updated on the latest in nail care.
Follow Haroon on NailBeautyZone for expert advice and tips. Stay connected on social media for more insights and updates on nail health and beauty.