That line is another classic viral-style hook. Let’s separate what can help the appearance of thick toenails from what’s a myth—and keep it safe.
First, why toenails get thick
Common reasons include:
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Fungal infection (most common)
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Repeated pressure (tight shoes, sports)
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Aging (nails naturally thicken)
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Medical conditions (like psoriasis or circulation issues)
The “nana trick” people usually mean
Most versions boil down to softening the nail so it can be trimmed and look thinner, not actually curing the cause.
Typical steps:
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Soak feet in warm water (sometimes with vinegar or Epsom salt) for 15–20 minutes
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Dry thoroughly
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Gently file the surface of the nail with a nail file or emery board
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Moisturize (urea cream or thick foot cream works best)
👉 Why it works (a little):
Soaking softens the nail, and filing reduces surface thickness, so the nail looks better.
What this trick does not do
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❌ It does not cure nail fungus
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❌ It does not permanently thin the nail
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❌ Vinegar, Vicks, or mouthwash are not proven cures
What actually helps long-term
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Keep nails short and straight
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Wear roomy, breathable shoes
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Use antifungal treatments if fungus is present (over-the-counter or prescribed)
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See a podiatrist if nails are painful, yellow/brown, or crumbling
Important safety note
Never aggressively scrape or cut thick nails—this can cause infections, especially for older adults or people with diabetes.
Bottom line:
Your nana’s trick can improve how thick toenails look, but it’s a cosmetic fix, not a medical one.
If you want, tell me:
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Is this for fungal nails, aging-related thickening, or shoe pressure?
I can tailor advice that actually matches the cause.
