Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. Your big toe is most likely to get an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails occur in both men and women and are more common in people with sweaty feet, such as teenagers. Older people may also be at higher risk because toenails thicken with age. Using your feet extensively during athletic activities can make you especially prone to getting ingrown toenails. Activities in which you repeatedly kick an object or put pressure on your feet for long periods of time can cause toenail damage and increase your risk of ingrown toenails. I will be able to identify an ingrown toenail with a simple examination.