Smoothing sharp edges

The thickened toenail pictured below has been trimmed correctly. The toes next to it need a similar straight cut.

After you've trimmed your toenails, gently file them with an emery board or nail file. This removes sharp edges that could cut your skin. Not only is a cut painful, but it also can raise the risk of an infection or an ingrown toenail. Filing your nails can help keep them from catching on your socks too.