Ava Monroe
Fingernails grow slowly, at a rate of about a millimeter a month, and there is no proven way to make them grow faster. However, there are several factors that can affect the rate of growth, including age, sex, season, exercise level, diet, hereditary factors, and overall health. For example, the nails on your dominant hand grow faster than those on your non-dominant hand, and they also grow faster during the day and in the summer. Additionally, nutrient deficiencies can affect nail growth and appearance, with protein and iron deficiencies leading to weakened or slow-growing nails. While keeping your nails moisturized won't make them grow faster, it can prevent them from breaking, allowing them to grow longer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do finger nails need air? | No |
| Do nails need to breathe? | No |
| Do nails derive oxygen from the air? | No, they derive oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply |
| Do nails need breaks in between manicures? | Yes, but not because they need to breathe |
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What You'll Learn
- Nails are made of dead cells and do not require oxygen to survive
- The living cells that produce the nail plate are located under the skin at the base of the nail
- Blood vessels provide oxygen and nutrients to nails through tiny blood vessels
- Nail polishes can protect nails from daily wear and tear
- Nails can become damaged when exposed to harsh chemicals for extended periods
Nails are made of dead cells and do not require oxygen to survive
It is a common misconception that nails need to "breathe". This idea is not supported by scientific evidence. Nails are made of dead cells and do not require oxygen to survive. The living cells responsible for producing the nail plate are located under the skin at the base of the nail, where they receive all the nutrients and oxygen they need from the blood supply.
The nail plate is a dead, hardened layer and is alive only underneath it in an area called the nail matrix. In that sense, nails are just like hair. Nails are made from keratin, a type of protein that forms the cells that make up the tissue in nails. Keratin is also found in hair. The nail plate is not living and does not require oxygen.
Nails receive their nourishment internally, not via external air. Blood vessels provide oxygen and nutrients to the hand, fingers, and nails through millions of tiny blood vessels. The veins carry waste and carbon dioxide away. This intricate process is what feeds the matrix, so the matrix can produce healthy nail cells. These healthy nail cells make up the surrounding soft tissue of the nail plate.
Nail polishes and enhancements can offer numerous benefits, including protection, strength, and moisture retention. They create a physical barrier, protecting the nails from daily wear and tear, and helping to lock in moisture to the nail plate. This is crucial for maintaining nail flexibility and preventing brittleness.
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The living cells that produce the nail plate are located under the skin at the base of the nail
The fingernail is an extension of the epidermis, or skin, and does not require air or oxygen to maintain its health. Nourishment and oxygen are supplied to the fingernail via the bloodstream, specifically through the nail bed and matrix. The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate, made of two types of tissues: the dermis and the epidermis. The nail bed contains blood vessels, nerves, and melanocytes that produce melanin. The nail bed is the area of the nail on which the nail plate rests, and it provides the nail with essential oils and moisture to keep it healthy and flexible.
The nail plate is created in the nail matrix, where skin cells are modified and keratinised to become the hard, flat cells of the nail plate. The matrix is the inner part of the nail, and it affects the nail's shape, size, regeneration, and growth. The matrix contains the lymph, blood vessels, and nerves that help the nail grow. Keratin grows and hardens in the matrix, producing the nail body. The nail plate is strongly attached to the nail bed and does not contain any nerves or blood vessels.
The eponychium is the fold of skin cells that produces the cuticle. The cuticle is the semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells that cover the back of the visible nail plate. The eponychium and the cuticle form a protective seal, preventing germs and bacteria from reaching the nail matrix. The eponychium is a small band of living cells that extend from the posterior nail wall onto the base of the nail.
The nail root, or germinal matrix, is the base of the nail underneath the skin. The lunula is the edge of the nail root, appearing as a white crescent. The lunula can best be seen in the thumb and may not be visible in the little finger. It appears white due to a reflection of light where the nail matrix and nail bed meet.
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Blood vessels provide oxygen and nutrients to nails through tiny blood vessels
It is a common misconception that nails need to "breathe" to be healthy. This is not true—nails are made of a non-living protein called keratin, which is an extension of the epidermis. Nails do not require air or oxygen to maintain their health. Instead, nourishment and oxygen are supplied via the bloodstream, specifically through the nail bed and matrix.
The nail bed is made up of living tissue consisting of a dermal and epidermal layer. The upper layer is similar to the type of skin found on the inside of your mouth. This layer is attached to the underside of the natural nail plate, which is also not living and does not breathe. Blood vessels provide oxygen and nutrients to the hand, fingers, and nails through millions of tiny blood vessels. The veins carry away waste and carbon dioxide.
This intricate process feeds the matrix so that it can produce healthy nail cells. These healthy nail cells make up the surrounding soft tissue of the nail plate, eponychium, lateral folds, hyponychium, and bed epithelium, all of which are living tissue.
The health of the nail is dependent on the health of the nail bed, matrix, and surrounding tissue. A healthy diet is also important for nail health, as nutrient deficiencies can affect nail growth and strength. For example, an iron deficiency can lead to vertical ridges in your nails or cause them to concave or "spoon".
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Nail polishes can protect nails from daily wear and tear
It is a common misconception that nails need to breathe. This is a myth, as nails are made of keratin, a type of protein, and are an extension of the epidermis. Nails do not require air or oxygen to maintain their health. Instead, they receive nourishment and oxygen through the bloodstream, specifically through the nail bed and matrix.
The use of nail polishes can also enhance the overall structure and toughness of nails over time. Regular application of strengthening polishes can improve nail health, making them less prone to peeling, splitting, and brittleness.
However, it is important to note that different types of nail polishes have varying effects on fingernails. The chemicals used in nail polishes can have both pros and cons. For example, gel polishes, if used for extended periods, can cause severe dryness and brittleness. The removal process of gel polish, which involves soaking in acetone and aggressive buffing, can also be damaging to the nail plate.
To maintain nail health, it is recommended to take breaks between manicures and keep nails and cuticles well-moisturized. Additionally, when choosing a nail polish, opt for those labelled "five-free," which do not contain formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor, as these chemicals may have potential long-term negative effects.
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Nails can become damaged when exposed to harsh chemicals for extended periods
It is a common misconception that nails need to breathe. In reality, nails are made of keratin, a protein that forms a hard structure. Nourishment and oxygen are supplied to the nails via the bloodstream, specifically through the nail bed and matrix, not through direct contact with air.
The type of nail polish used can also affect nail health. For example, gel polishes are cured under a UV lamp, which dries and hardens the polish instantly. However, this type of light is a known cause of cellular damage and ageing and can increase the risk of skin cancer. The removal process of gel polish can also be destructive to nails, requiring aggressive buffing, scraping, and peeling, which can injure the nail plate.
Additionally, the sanitation practices in nail salons can impact nail health. Communal jars of powder used for multiple people can become a reservoir for bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Poor hygiene practices can increase the risk of nail damage and infections, and an inexperienced nail technician may not follow proper hygiene protocols.
To maintain nail health, it is important to use high-quality nail products that are free from harsh chemicals and to practice good nail hygiene. Keeping nails clean and dry, avoiding biting or picking, and being gentle with the nails can help prevent nail damage.
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Frequently asked questions
No, your nails do not need air. Nails derive oxygen and nutrients from the blood supply and not the air.
It is recommended to take a break from nail polish every few sets to let your natural nails recover from any damage done by e-files and soak-offs.
Some signs that indicate you need to give your nails a break include overly thin, ridged, or dry nails. Other signs include the appearance of keratin granulation (rough and white patches on the surface of the nail) and discolouration.
To keep your nails healthy, it is important to keep them hydrated and resist the urge to pick at your cuticles. You can use a cuticle oil for added hydration and to prevent biting and picking.
