An image of this would help me provide a better opinion. To manage and improve thick, keratinized skin around toe nail effectively, a more structured and actionable approach— where we combine intensive targeted chemical softening with proper physical skin management is necessary.

Thick black keratinized skin around the toenail may be due to chronic fungal infection, repeated friction/pressure, eczema, psoriasis, or a wart. Without examining the area or seeing a clear photograph, it is not possible to identify the exact cause. Unfortunately, there is no instant cure. Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis and may take several weeks.

Most likely this is a fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) — topical medicines rarely work for thick keratinized nails. You need oral antifungals like terbinafine 250mg daily for 3-6 months — that's the only thing that actually works. Get a nail scraping done first to confirm fungal infection, and visit a podiatrist for proper debridement.

If u can share the picture its good to assess and decide for management

Thick keratinised skin around toe nails are first to be properly debrided by a Podiatrist. Once proper debridement is done, then any good mosturising creams can be applied daily to keep the skin soft. This is the proper management of the problem. Hence please consult a Podiatrist / foot specialist.