Caleb Foster
Fingernails and toenails are made of a protein called keratin, which forms the cells that make up the tissue in nails. Nails form under the skin and push old cells through as they grow. The nail matrix is the root of the nail, where new cells form and old cells are pushed through the skin. The cells on the surface die and harden, turning into the nails that we see. While it is possible to lose a fingernail, the nail matrix is usually not permanently damaged, and the nail will grow back over time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do finger nails grow back after falling off? | Yes, in most cases, a new nail will slowly regrow and replace the old nail. |
| How long does it take for finger nails to grow back? | It takes about 4 to 6 months for a new fingernail to grow back completely. |
| What causes finger nails to fall off? | Nail injuries, such as smashing your finger in a door or dropping something heavy on it, can cause the nail to fall off. Medical conditions, such as chemotherapy, can also affect nail growth. |
| What to do if you lose a finger nail? | If the nail is still attached to the nail bed, you can try to keep it in place with a bandage. If the nail has fallen off, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. You should also seek medical attention if there is bleeding or other signs of infection. |
| How to prevent finger nail injuries? | Keep your fingernails trimmed and avoid biting your nails or cuticles. Wear properly sized shoes to prevent toenail injuries. |
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What You'll Learn
- Fingernails can take around two months to grow back, while toenails can take up to a year or more
- The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails are formed, and injuries to this area can cause deformities in the nails as they regrow
- Nail injuries can result in blood under the nail, known as subungual hematoma, which can be treated by draining the trapped blood
- Illnesses, such as COVID-19 or pneumonia, can interrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges known as Beau's lines
- Certain medications can also affect nail growth and cause changes in nail colour
Fingernails can take around two months to grow back, while toenails can take up to a year or more
Fingernails and toenails can be injured in several ways, including a blow to the nail, closing a finger or toe in a door, or dropping something heavy on them. Such injuries can cause bruising, ridges, discolouration, or even the nail falling off. In most cases, new nails will slowly regrow, although the rate of regrowth varies from person to person.
Fingernails typically take around two months to grow back completely. During this time, the injured nail bed will heal, and a new nail will grow in and replace the old one, pushing it off. The new nail may have grooves, ridges, or be somewhat misshapen, and these cosmetic changes may be permanent.
Toenails tend to take significantly longer to grow back than fingernails, with regrowth taking anywhere from six months to two years. Toenails grow back three to four times slower than fingernails due to slower nail growth caused by reduced blood flow to the toes. Toenails are also more susceptible to fungal infections, which can further slow down the regrowth process.
The speed of nail regrowth can be influenced by several factors. Overall health plays a role, with nail growth slowing down if an individual is sick or malnourished. Hormones can also affect regrowth, with nails potentially growing faster during pregnancy. Additionally, proper medical care and treatment can promote healthy nail regrowth.
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The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails are formed, and injuries to this area can cause deformities in the nails as they regrow
The nail matrix is a crucial component of nail anatomy, responsible for the growth of both fingernails and toenails. Located at the base of the nail, it generates new cells that push out old, dead skin cells, facilitating nail growth. This process, known as keratinization, involves the hardening of new cells as they move forward, eventually forming the nail plate. The nail matrix also plays a role in nourishing and regenerating the nail bed.
Injuries to the nail matrix can have significant consequences on nail growth and appearance. Mechanical trauma, such as crushing or pinching the finger, or dropping heavy objects on the toe, can damage the nail matrix. This may result in bruising, ridges, or discolouration, and in severe cases, the nail may fall off. Subungual hematoma, a condition caused by blood pooling under the nail, often indicates trauma to the nail matrix.
In the event of nail matrix injuries, timely treatment is essential to prevent deformities and ensure proper healing. Nail trephination, a procedure that drains trapped blood, can provide pain relief and aid in the correct growth of the new nail. It must be performed within 48 hours of the injury, before blood clotting occurs. Matrix repair initiated within 24 hours of the injury can increase the chances of avoiding nail deformities.
Certain habits and behaviours can also contribute to nail trauma and potential deformities. Nail biting, for instance, is a common cause of acute paronychia, a bacterial infection that leads to swelling and irritation around the nail. Additionally, repetitive actions like picking at the nail and cuticle can result in horizontal hatch marks on the nail. Ill-fitting shoes can cause repeated trauma to toenails, leading to thickened, discoloured, or deformed nails.
While nail injuries and deformities can be concerning, proper knowledge of nail anatomy and timely medical intervention can promote healing and minimise long-term cosmetic and functional issues.
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Nail injuries can result in blood under the nail, known as subungual hematoma, which can be treated by draining the trapped blood
Fingernail injuries are common and can be caused by blunt or sharp trauma to the fingers. This can result in blood under the nail, known as subungual hematoma. This condition can cause significant discomfort due to increased pressure under the nail. While small hematomas may not require treatment, larger hematomas that cover more than 50% of the nail bed can be painful and may require medical attention.
Subungual hematoma drainage is a procedure that can be performed to relieve the pressure and pain caused by the trapped blood. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a medical professional and within 48 hours of the injury, as the blood will likely clot after this time frame, making drainage ineffective. During the procedure, the clinician will clean the affected finger with a povidone-iodine solution and use a preferred tool, such as a heated needle or electrocautery, to create a hole at the base of the nail or in the center of the hematoma. This hole allows the trapped blood to drain out.
After the procedure, it is important to follow the clinician's instructions for post-trephination care. This may include applying an antibacterial ointment, dressing the wound, and keeping the finger dry for a couple of days. It is worth noting that the nail may remain discolored even after the procedure. In some cases, the nail may fall off due to the hematoma, but with proper medical care, it will usually grow back, although it may be deformed if the nail bed was damaged.
While subungual hematoma drainage can provide relief, it is not always necessary. For smaller hematomas that are not causing significant pain or discomfort, simple at-home treatments such as trimming the nail and keeping it clean may be sufficient. Additionally, if the blood is draining spontaneously, additional drainage may not provide further benefit. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
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Illnesses, such as COVID-19 or pneumonia, can interrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges known as Beau's lines
Fingernails and toenails are formed in the nail matrix, which is made up of the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix contributes to about 90% of nail growth, while the sterile matrix is responsible for the remaining 10% of cells that make up the nails. It also plays a crucial role in keeping the nail attached to the underlying skin.
Injuries and certain health conditions can damage the nail matrix and affect nail growth. Illnesses, such as COVID-19 or pneumonia, can interrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges known as Beau's lines. These lines are not unique to COVID-19 and can be caused by a variety of other illnesses or interruptions to the body, such as kidney failure, pneumonia, or other viral infections. They can also be caused by physical trauma, such as repeatedly picking at the nails, or infections around the fingertips. In some cases, Beau's lines may be a side effect of certain medications, such as chemotherapy.
If you notice Beau's lines on a single nail, it is likely due to minor issues such as picking at the cuticle, getting a manicure, or an infection like an ingrown fingernail. However, if Beau's lines appear on multiple nails, it may indicate a more serious underlying health issue. In addition to COVID-19 and pneumonia, Beau's lines have been associated with various illnesses, including kidney failure, syphilis, thyroid disease, endocarditis, diabetes, and melanoma. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if you notice persistent or widespread Beau's lines, as they may indicate a need for further medical evaluation.
It is worth noting that nail injuries and conditions can often be treated, and healthy nail growth can resume with proper medical care. In most cases, fingernails regrow completely within about two months, while toenails may take up to four months. However, severe damage to the nail matrix may result in permanent cosmetic changes or partial nail loss.
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Certain medications can also affect nail growth and cause changes in nail colour
Fingernails and toenails can be injured in various ways, including physical trauma and certain medications. While injured nails can grow back, certain medications can affect nail growth and cause changes in nail colour.
Medications that can affect nail health include cancer medications, chemotherapy agents, and other drugs. In rare cases, non-cancer medications may also contribute to nail changes. These changes are usually cosmetic and do not significantly affect overall health. However, it is important to discuss any concerning nail changes with a healthcare professional.
Some specific medications that have been associated with nail changes include retinoids, tetracyclines, isotretinoin, valproic acid, lithium, and chemotherapy drugs. These medications can cause nail abnormalities such as Beau's lines (horizontal ridges), slow nail growth, Mees' lines (white bands), and changes in nail colour.
Drug-induced nail diseases can result from damage to the nail matrix, nail bed, periungual tissue, or blood vessels feeding the nails. The signs and symptoms of drug-induced nail disease depend on the specific drug and may affect a single nail or all the fingernails and sometimes toenails. Older individuals and those exposed to multiple medications are at a higher risk of developing drug-induced nail disease.
To prevent and manage drug-induced nail changes, it is recommended to avoid intensive sun exposure or tanning beds when taking photosensitive drugs. Opaque nail polish can also be used as a preventative measure. Additionally, individuals can apply emollients and poly-ureaurethane to protect and strengthen weak and brittle nails. Keeping nails trimmed and short and using cotton gloves under latex gloves for wet work can also help.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, fingernails will grow back after falling off. The nail matrix, or nail root, is the part of the nail that generally won't be lost when a fingernail falls off. This is where new nail cells are formed and push older cells up through the skin.
It can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months for a new fingernail to grow back and replace the lost nail. The rate of regrowth can vary from person to person and depend on overall health.
If your fingernail falls off, it is recommended to keep the area clean and dry. You can also take OTC anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve mild pain. If there is a large amount of blood under the nail, seek medical attention as it could be a sign of a more serious injury.
To speed up the healing process of a fingernail, you can apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and inflammation. You can also take biotin supplements to promote cell growth and help your body metabolize protein-building amino acids.
