Genetics
Genetics play a role in the development of ingrown toenails. Certain individuals are more prone to this condition due to inherited traits. For instance, some people may have pincer nails, where the sides of the nail start growing towards each other. Normally, the nail grows downward, penetrating the skin underneath the toe. While it may not cause any symptoms initially, individuals with pincer nails are more susceptible to developing ingrown toenails as they age.
Increased Risk of Ingrown Toenails in Older Individuals
As individuals age, they become more susceptible to developing ingrown toenails. The natural development of pincer nails in adulthood, along with the thickening of nails commonly seen in older adults, contributes to the prevalence of ingrown nails in this age group. Additionally, older individuals often face the challenge of brittle nails that are prone to breaking and growing improperly. The loss of manual dexterity and ability to maintain proper nail care that accompanies aging can also exacerbate the occurrence of ingrown toenails.