A device and method for treating an ingrown nail condition is provided. The method prevents a phenol solution that is applied during a P & A procedure from coming into contact with the surrounding skin and nail bed. The device is essentially a plastic tube which comes in different lengths and widths and has a specially shaped aperture located at one end. A stick-shaped cotton applicator is inserted through the tube so as to ensure direct application of the phenol solution onto only the nail matrix. As a result, the phenol solution is prevented from coming into contact with the skin and nail bed, thereby reducing post-operative healing time, post-operative infection and post-operative pain.