Isla Bennett
Fingernails and toenails are made of a protein called keratin, which is also responsible for the creation of hair and the top layer of skin. Nails grow from the matrix, or the root, and not from the ends. The root portion at the base of the nail lies below the skin and extends several millimetres into the finger. The nail bed, situated beneath the nail plate, provides support and nourishment to the nail. The cuticle, a thin layer of tissue that overlaps the nail plate at the base of the nail, acts as a protective barrier. The rate of nail growth is influenced by various factors, including genetics, age, health, and hormonal changes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Part of the body that nails grow from | The root, or nail matrix |
| Location of the root | Under the cuticle, at the base of the nail, under the skin |
| Appearance of the root | White crescent shape, known as the lunula |
| Function of the root | Produces most of the volume of the nail |
| Growth rate of nails | On average, a healthy person's fingernails grow about 3 to 3.5 millimeters per month |
| Factors affecting growth rate | Genetics, age, health, nutritional deficiencies, underlying conditions, hormonal changes, circulation, and trauma |
| Ways to strengthen nails and prevent breakage | Take biotin, use nail hardeners sparingly, avoid glue-on nails and toxic polishes, practice good nail hygiene, and groom nails regularly |
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What You'll Learn
Nail growth rate
The growth rate of nails varies from person to person, and it can change over a person's lifetime. Nails grow from a deep groove under the skin called the nail matrix, which is often referred to as the nail root. The nail plate, or the part of the nail that is visible, is made of a hard substance called keratin. The nail matrix is responsible for creating new cells that become the nail plate. These cells are pushed forward as new cells form behind them, causing the nails to grow.
On average, fingernails grow at a rate of about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or about 3.47 millimeters per month. It takes about six months for a complete nail growth cycle from the bottom to the tip. Toenails grow at a slower rate, at an average of 1.62 millimeters per month. It can take up to a year and a half for a lost toenail to grow back completely.
There are several factors that can affect the rate of nail growth. One factor is the hand that the nail is on. Nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster because the dominant hand is used more often and is more prone to injuries or trauma. The fingers on which the nails are located also play a role, with nails on longer fingers growing faster than those on shorter ones. Additionally, the rate of nail growth can be influenced by the time of year, with nails growing faster during the summertime and slower during colder months. Age is another factor, as nail growth tends to slow down with age due to a decrease in blood circulation. Hormone levels can also impact nail growth, with growth rates peaking during puberty and declining as hormone levels balance out with age. Pregnancy has been associated with rapid nail growth, while lactation has been linked to slower nail growth.
Certain medical conditions can interfere with nail growth. For example, individuals with eczema or psoriasis may experience changes in their nails, including pitting, dents, and changes in texture or color. Subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer that affects the nail matrix, can also cause nail growth abnormalities. Nutritional deficiencies, fungal infections, and other underlying health conditions can also impact nail growth rate.
Practicing good nail hygiene, maintaining a nutritious and well-balanced diet, and taking supplements like biotin can help support nail health and promote growth. Regular trimming and grooming can also help prevent breakage and maintain nail strength, leading to the appearance of longer nails over time.
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Nail matrix and root
The nail matrix, often referred to as the nail root, is located at the base of the nail under the skin. It is the area where your fingernails and toenails start to grow. The nail matrix is made of special cells that create new cells, which become your fingernails or toenails. Each nail matrix produces 196 layers of cells that combine to make each of your fingernails and toenails. The nail matrix has two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix is under the base of your nail, while the sterile matrix lies underneath your nail. About 90% of your nail growth comes from your germinal matrix, while the remaining 10% of cells that make up your nails come from the sterile matrix. However, the sterile matrix is more important in keeping your nail attached to the underlying skin.
Injuries and certain health conditions can damage your nail matrix and interfere with nail growth. Minor damage to your nail matrix can temporarily change your nail's appearance, and you might notice a change in how your nail feels to the touch. A severe injury could cause your nail to fall off. Some health conditions that can affect your nail matrix include fungal infections, illnesses such as COVID-19 or pneumonia, injuries such as pinching or crushing your finger, and medications such as chemotherapy.
In cases of severe nail matrix damage, some or all of your nail may not grow back. Proper nail care is essential for maintaining a healthy nail matrix. For example, it is recommended to trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails and to trim fingernails with a slight curve at the edges without cutting them too short.
The lunula, the white crescent shape at the base of your nail, is the only visible part of your nail matrix. However, some people do not have visible lunulas, which is normal. The cuticle, the white or transparent skin at the base of your nail, provides protection to the nail matrix.
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Nail bed
The nail bed is the area directly under the nail plate. It consists of two structures: the nail bed epithelium and the underlying dermis. The nail bed epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue that is highly adhesive, sticking to the underside of the nail plate and holding it in place. The dermis underneath the nail bed epithelium has a series of interlocking ridges and grooves that allow the nail plate to grow smoothly while remaining firmly attached.
The dermis of the nail bed is rich in blood, sebaceous glands, and lymph vessels. These features nourish the nail plate, keeping it healthy and moisturised. The nail bed is also innervated, with a high concentration of nerve endings. This means that removing the nail plate can be extremely painful.
The nail bed is protected by the hyponychium, or the "quick", which is the epithelium located beneath the nail plate at the junction between the free edge and the skin of the fingertip. The onychodermal band, a seal between the nail plate and the hyponychium, is the portion of the nail where the nail bed ends. The eponychium and the cuticle also form a protective seal over the nail bed. The cuticle is a semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells that cover the back of the nail plate, while the eponychium is the fold of skin cells that produces the cuticle.
The nail bed is nourished and protected by the rich supply of blood and lymph vessels, as well as nerve endings. Minor damage to the nail bed will usually heal over time, but severe damage may result in the nail not reattaching. Biting your nails can stimulate circulation in the nail bed, increasing nail growth.
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Trimming and clipping
To trim your nails effectively, it is important to use the proper tools and techniques. You can use nail clippers, nail scissors, or a spring-handled tool called a toenail nipper for thicker toenails. It is recommended to use separate tools for your fingernails and toenails. Ensure that your tools are clean and disinfected to avoid the risk of infection. You can disinfect your tools by soaking a scrub brush in a bowl of 70% to 90% isopropyl alcohol and then scrubbing the clippers or scissors. Rinse and dry the tools before use.
When trimming your fingernails, cut almost straight across the nail, leaving the corners intact. Use a nail file or emery board to slightly round the corners, helping to keep them strong and prevent catching on objects. For toenails, cut straight across to reduce the chances of developing ingrown toenails. Avoid cutting your nails too short, and be careful not to cut your cuticles, as they protect the nail root and help prevent infections.
After trimming, it is beneficial to moisturize your nails and cuticles to maintain flexibility and prevent dryness and splitting. Additionally, you can use nail hardeners sparingly to strengthen your nails and reduce breakage, but prolonged use is not recommended as it can break down the nail over time. Maintaining good nail hygiene and regularly trimming your nails can help foster nail strength and promote healthy nail growth.
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Nail disorders and conditions
Several factors influence nail growth, including genetics, age, health, and hormonal changes. Nails grow from the matrix or root, and any damage to this area can affect nail growth. Minor damage to the nail matrix can cause temporary changes in the nail's appearance and texture. Severe damage can cause the nail to fall off, and in cases of extreme damage, the nail may not grow back.
Nail disorders can affect the health, strength, and appearance of both fingernails and toenails. Here are some common nail conditions:
- Ingrown Toenail: This condition can cause pain, swelling, and infection. It is often caused by genetics, but other factors include nail injuries, nail shape, and footwear.
- Nail Fungal Infections: Nail fungus can enter through cracks or breaks in the nail, causing the nail to thicken, discolour, and become more fragile. Sweaty feet, athlete's foot, and salon manicures and pedicures can increase the risk of nail fungal infections.
- Paronychia: This is an infection that causes swelling and discolouration around the edges of the nail bed. It can be a result of an ingrown toenail.
- Onycholysis: This condition causes the nail to separate from the nail bed, often due to injury or underlying health conditions. It can result in discolouration, additional skin tissue under the nail, nail pitting, nail thickening, or bending of the nail edges.
- Onychogryphosis: This condition causes the nail to thicken and overgrow, sometimes resembling a ram's horn. It often affects the big toe and can be caused by psoriasis, ichthyosis, or circulation problems.
- Koilonychia: Also known as spoon-shaped nails, this condition is characterised by thin, spoon-shaped nails that dip down in the middle. It is often associated with iron deficiency.
- Onychoschizia: A common issue causing brittle, soft, splitting, or thin nails. It is often caused by repeatedly wetting and drying the nails, but it can also be due to iron deficiency or underlying illness.
- Beau's Lines: Deep lines or grooves across the fingernails. They usually occur when an individual is ill but should grow out.
- Clubbing: Fingernails curving over rounded fingertips. This can be indicative of many serious, long-term conditions.
- Nail Psoriasis: Up to 80% of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis, which can cause white lines, pitting, and crumbling of the nails.
- Eczema: Severe eczema can affect the nail matrix and interfere with nail growth, resulting in Beau's lines, pitting, texture changes, and discolouration.
- Lichen Planus: This condition can lead to thinning and pitting of the nail plate. The nail may lift off the nail bed and appear darker and thicker.
- Subungual Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that affects the nail matrix, causing brown or black discolouration.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, nails grow from a deep groove under the skin called the nail matrix or root. The nail matrix creates new cells that become your fingernails or toenails.
While genetics determine the maximum rate of nail growth, getting adequate nutrition, staying hydrated, and protecting nails can help optimize growth. A healthy, balanced diet with protein and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E—along with good circulation through exercise—supports nail matrix cells. Moisturizing hands daily also keeps nails flexible and less prone to breakage.
There are several health conditions that can affect nail growth. For example, a diet low in biotin, iron, zinc, protein, and magnesium may result in brittle and weak nails. Additionally, anemic conditions can impact the amount of iron delivered to the nails, resulting in a weaker nail matrix. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy, can also cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges) or slow nail growth.
