Isla Bennett
Fingernails are made of keratin, a protein that forms the cells that make up the tissue in nails. They are created in the nail matrix, the factory where the body produces new nails. If a fingernail falls off due to injury or illness, it will usually grow back with proper medical care. The time it takes for a fingernail to grow back depends on the severity of the injury, but it typically takes several weeks for the nail bed to heal and a new nail to start appearing, and up to six months for the nail to grow back to its full size.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail growth after an injury | A new nail will grow in and replace the old nail, pushing it off as it grows. |
| Time taken for the nail bed to heal | 7 to 10 days |
| Time taken for a new fingernail to grow | 4 to 6 months |
| Time taken for a toenail to grow | 12 months or up to 18 months |
| Nail appearance after regrowth | The new nail will probably have grooves or ridges and be somewhat misshapen. This may be permanent. |
| Nail matrix | The nail matrix is the "factory" where your body makes new fingernails and toenails. Minor damage to your nail matrix can temporarily change your nail's appearance. |
| Nail injuries | Smashing your finger in a door, hitting it with a hammer or another heavy object, or cutting it with a sharp object can cause a nail injury. |
| Nail injury treatment | Treatment depends on the type and seriousness of the injury. For minor injuries, gently wash any minor cuts or scrapes and apply a bandage. For more serious injuries, go to an urgent care center or the emergency room. |
| Preventing nail injuries | Cut your nails properly. Trim toenails straight across and trim fingernails with a slight curve at the edges, without cutting them too short. |
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What You'll Learn
- Fingernails are made of keratin, a protein that forms the cells that make up the tissue in nails
- The nail matrix is the factory where your body makes new fingernails and toenails
- A fingernail or toenail can be injured by a blow or by closing the finger in a door
- Nail injuries can be treated at home if bleeding stops quickly and the nail is still attached to the nail bed
- Toenails take longer to grow back than fingernails
Fingernails are made of keratin, a protein that forms the cells that make up the tissue in nails
Fingernails are made of a protein called keratin, which forms the cells that make up the tissue of nails. The process of nail growth begins with the formation of these cells under the skin, pushing out old cells as new ones grow. This means that the nails we see are dead cells with no feeling. However, the inner part of the nail, under the skin, is very much alive and can sense pressure near the cuticles.
The area under the skin where new nail cells are formed is called the nail matrix or nail root. This is the heart of the nail, and it is responsible for nail growth. When the visible part of the fingernail detaches due to an injury, the nail matrix remains intact, and the nail will grow back with time.
The nail matrix consists of two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix contributes to about 90% of nail growth, while the remaining 10% comes from the sterile matrix, which also plays a crucial role in keeping the nail attached to the underlying skin. Injuries or certain health conditions can damage the nail matrix, affecting nail growth and causing temporary changes in the nail's appearance.
Proper care is essential for nail health and promoting nail growth after an injury. Home treatments can help relieve pain, enhance healing, and prevent infection. Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial to prevent infection while waiting for a new nail to grow. In some cases, medical care may be necessary to address more severe nail injuries.
It is worth noting that fingernails typically grow at a rate of about one-tenth of an inch per month. This means that it can take up to six months for a fingernail to regrow completely after falling off. Toenails grow back even slower, taking up to 12 to 18 months to fully regrow.
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The nail matrix is the factory where your body makes new fingernails and toenails
The nail matrix is the area where your fingernails and toenails are formed. It is the "factory" where your body makes new nails. The nail matrix is located at the base of the nail and is made up of two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix contributes about 90% of nail growth, while the remaining 10% comes from the sterile matrix, which is also responsible for keeping your nail attached to the underlying skin.
The nail matrix is composed of dividing keratinocytes, which mature and keratinize to produce the nail plate. The nail plate is the hard, translucent portion of the nail that sits on the nail bed. The nail bed is the area under the nail plate, where the nail adheres to the finger or toe. The lunula, the white crescent shape at the base of the nail, is the only visible part of the nail matrix. However, some people may not have visible lunulas, which is normal.
Injuries or certain health conditions can damage the nail matrix and interfere with nail growth. Minor damage can cause temporary changes in the nail's appearance, such as ridges, discoloration, or a change in texture. Severe injuries, such as crushing or cutting the finger, can cause the nail to fall off. In some cases of severe nail matrix damage, the nail may not grow back.
Proper treatment is essential for the nail matrix to heal and promote healthy nail growth. If the nail cannot be reattached, a special material may be used to protect the nail bed as it heals. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Procedures such as nail trephination can provide pain relief and help the new nail grow correctly by draining trapped blood under the nail. With the right care, healthy nails can often grow back, even if the nail falls off.
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A fingernail or toenail can be injured by a blow or by closing the finger in a door
To prevent nail injuries, it is important to be mindful of your hand and foot placement when closing doors and to avoid distractions when using tools that could slip and injure your fingers. Wearing properly sized and closed-toe shoes is also essential when lifting heavy objects or moving around.
If a fingernail or toenail falls off due to injury, it will typically grow back within four to six months for fingernails and up to 12 to 18 months for toenails. During the healing process, it is crucial to keep the nail bed clean and dry to prevent infection. Applying petroleum jelly and covering the area with a bandage can aid in the healing process and protect the sensitive nail bed.
In some cases, a nail injury may require medical attention. If there is a broken bone, deep cut, or severe damage to the nail bed or surrounding tissues, it is important to seek medical care. A healthcare provider can perform a procedure called nail trephination to drain trapped blood, relieve pain, and promote proper nail growth. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent infection.
With proper medical care, healthy nails can usually grow back after an injury. However, in rare cases, severe damage to the nail matrix (the tissue inside the cuticle where new nails are formed) can lead to permanent nail loss. Cosmetic changes, such as grooves or ridges, may also be present in the new nail.
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Nail injuries can be treated at home if bleeding stops quickly and the nail is still attached to the nail bed
A nail injury can occur when any part of the nail, nail bed, cuticle, or surrounding skin is damaged. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, some nail injuries can be treated at home, while others may require urgent medical care.
If bleeding stops quickly and the nail remains attached to the nail bed, you can treat a nail injury at home. Here are some steps to follow:
- Remove jewellery: Take off any rings or other jewellery from your hand to prevent further injury if the affected area swells.
- Stop the bleeding: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding.
- Clean the wound: Gently clean the wound with soap and warm water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply ointment: Spread a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment over the wound to keep it moist and promote healing.
- Cover the wound: Use gauze or a bandage to cover the wound and protect the nail as it heals. Avoid using sticky products directly on the nail, as they can irritate the injury. Instead, apply adhesive products to the skin around the nail.
- Reduce swelling: Prop up your arm or leg so that the injured area is elevated above the level of your heart. Apply a cool, damp washcloth to the wound or soak your hand or foot in cold water to reduce swelling.
- Manage pain: Take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Prevent further injury: Keep your nail trimmed and short to prevent the nail from catching or tearing. Ensure your shoes fit well and have a wide toe box to avoid rubbing. When engaging in sports or activities, wear protective gear to safeguard your nails.
It is important to note that if the nail is cut, torn, or detached, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Additionally, if the injury does not improve or heals improperly, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for further treatment options.
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Toenails take longer to grow back than fingernails
Fingernails and toenails serve to protect the skin on your fingers and toes. However, you may lose a nail due to trauma, fungal infection, or other reasons. In the event that a fingernail or toenail falls off, it will usually grow back with proper medical care.
The growth rate of nails can vary from person to person. Factors such as age, nutrition, and season can influence the speed of nail growth. For example, nail growth is said to peak during puberty and decline as hormone levels balance out with age. Additionally, nails grow faster during the summertime.
It is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection while waiting for a new nail to grow. Home treatments can help relieve pain and promote healing. Soaking the affected area in a solution of warm water and salt can also aid in the healing process.
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Frequently asked questions
If your fingernail falls off, you should seek medical attention. Your doctor may decide to treat the injury with a splint or special shoe, or they may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. You can also apply ice to the affected area and take pain relievers to reduce pain and swelling.
It takes about 4 to 6 months for a fingernail to grow back, while toenails can take up to 12 to 18 months. During this time, the new nail will likely have grooves or ridges and be somewhat misshapen.
Fingernails can fall off due to various reasons, including injuries, illnesses, and certain medications. Injuries can include smashing your finger in a door, hitting it with a hammer, or cutting it with a sharp object. Illnesses such as COVID-19 or pneumonia can also interrupt nail growth and cause changes in their appearance.
