Isla Bennett
Fingernails are protective structures that grow at the end of each finger. They are made of a protein called keratin and serve several functions, including improving grip, aiding in scratching, and enhancing sensation and dexterity. The growth of fingernails occurs through the constant production of new keratin by the nail matrix, which pushes the nail forward as new cells form. Various factors influence the speed of fingernail growth, including age, nutrition, and the dominant hand, which tends to have faster-growing nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Parts of the nail | The nail itself, the underlying structure that supports nail growth, and the skin tissue that surrounds it |
| Nail growth | Occurs at the nail's base, where specialized cells are produced and pushed forward as new cells form behind them |
| Nail growth rate | Fingernails: 3 to 3.5 millimeters per month; Toenails: 1.62 millimeters per month |
| Factors affecting growth rate | Time of year, age, nutrition, trauma, finger, and dominant hand |
| Health conditions affecting nails | Fungal infections, melanoma, lung disease, digestive conditions, heart health issues, diabetes, kidney function problems |
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What You'll Learn
The nail root and nail bed
The nail bed, on the other hand, is the skin beneath the nail plate, where the nail adheres to the finger. It is a specialised form of skin epithelium, with the same four layers as the epidermis of the skin. The nail plate is strongly attached to the nail bed, which provides nourishment to the entire nail unit through the blood vessels and nerves present. The nail bed also contains melanocytes that produce melanin, giving the nail bed its characteristic pink colour.
The nail bed extends from the edge of the nail root, or lunula, to the tissue known as the hyponychium. The lunula is the whitish, crescent-moon-shaped part of the nail, which is the visible part of the matrix. It appears white due to the reflection of light where the nail matrix and nail bed meet. The hyponychium is the epithelium located beneath the nail plate, forming a seal that protects the nail bed.
Together, the nail root and nail bed contribute to the growth and thickness of the nail. About 80% of the fingernail arises from the nail root, while the remaining 20% comes from the nail bed. Injuries to the nail bed or disorders affecting the nail matrix can disrupt nail growth. Conditions such as melanoma cancer can occur due to the growth of melanocytes in the nail bed, while trauma to the nail matrix can cause nail growth to stop temporarily or even permanently.
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Factors affecting growth speed
Fingernails grow at an average rate of about 3 to 3.5 millimetres per month, while toenails grow at a slightly slower rate of 1.62 millimetres per month. However, several factors can influence the speed of nail growth.
One factor is the time of year, with nails growing faster during the summer. Nails also grow faster during the day. The rate of growth also depends on the finger. For example, a 2007 study found that the little finger's nail grows slower than other fingernails. The nails on the dominant hand also tend to grow faster due to increased usage, which can lead to trauma and an increased risk of catching the nail on something. This trauma results in the body sending an increased amount of blood and nutrients to the area, which may promote nail growth.
Age is another factor that affects nail growth. As people age, their nails tend to grow slower due to reduced circulation and other age-related changes in the body.
The health of an individual can also impact nail growth speed. Certain health conditions, such as chemotherapy treatments, can affect nail health and growth. Nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions can also cause nails to grow slower than average. For example, a simple fungal infection can affect nail growth, and changes in the nails can sometimes indicate more serious health issues, such as cancer.
Practising good nail hygiene and caring for the overall health of the nails can help support their growth. While there are no scientifically proven methods to make nails grow faster, keeping them strong and healthy can prevent breakage and allow them to grow longer.
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Nail anatomy and function
The anatomy of fingernails and toenails is designed to protect the tips of the fingers and toes from injuries and infections. Nails also serve functional purposes, such as improving tactile sensation, dexterity, and fine motor skills. The structure of nails is divided into three main parts: the nail plate, the underlying nail bed, and the skin around the nail.
The nail plate, also known as 'the nail', is a hard, platelike, keratinous, and translucent structure. It is made of several layers of dead, compacted, and specialised epithelial cells called onychocytes, which are organised in a lamellar pattern. The nail plate is densely packed, making the nail strong but flexible. The whitish, crescent-moon-shaped part of the nail plate is known as the lunula. The lunula is not attached to the underlying nail bed and should be treated with care as the cells have not yet fully keratinised. The nail plate is attached to the nail bed through longitudinal epidermal ridges, which increase the surface area of the nail plate's attachment to the nail bed. The nail bed is located under the nail plate and is attached to its ventral surface. It extends from the edge of the nail root, or lunula, to the tissue known as the hyponychium. The nail bed contains blood vessels, nerves, and melanocytes that produce melanin. It supplies the nail plate with nutrients, such as oxygen and food.
The nail root, or germinal matrix, lies beneath the skin, at the inner edge of the nail plate, and is responsible for most of the nail's growth. It produces new cells that advance forward to form the nail until it reaches the outer edge and is removed. The nail grows from a deep groove in the dermis of the skin, and the growth occurs at the nail's base, where the specialised cells that make up the nail plate are produced. As the root grows, the nail streams down along the nail bed and adds material to the underside of the nail to make it thicker. The cuticle, or eponychium, is the living tissue found on the nail plate, above the nail root. It acts as a barrier to prevent pathogens from entering the soft tissue. The nail folds, which are part of the skin, protect the nail matrix and seal it against bacteria and dirt.
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Health conditions and nail changes
Fingernails are more than just protective accessories on our fingers. They can reveal a lot about our health. While some nail issues are harmless and can be resolved with home treatments, others may indicate underlying conditions that require medical attention.
One of the most common nail problems is onychoschizia, or brittle nails, which is usually caused by repeated wetting and drying of the fingernails. However, in some cases, brittle nails can also be a sign of more serious issues, such as hypothyroidism or iron deficiency. Soft nails that break easily or bend before snapping may be caused by similar factors.
Horizontal ridges on the nails, also known as Beau's lines, can indicate kidney disease or other underlying health issues. Meanwhile, vertical ridges are generally harmless and are a natural occurrence later in life.
White discolouration, or leukonychia, on the nails is often associated with calcium deficiency, according to folk wisdom. However, evidence to support this is mixed. In some cases, it can be a result of nail trauma, such as stubbing your toe or trapping your finger in a door. Nonetheless, white marks can sometimes indicate more serious health issues, such as heavy metal poisoning with lead or arsenic, or even psoriasis, a chronic skin condition.
Yellow nails are usually caused by an infection or a reaction to certain products, but they can also be a sign of more serious issues in rare cases.
Additionally, a condition known as "clubbing", characterised by the loss of the angle between the nail and the nail bed, can be associated with lung disease or other conditions.
Nails can also provide valuable information about digestive conditions, heart health, diabetes, and kidney function. They may even be indicative of more serious health issues, including cancer. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any significant or persistent changes in your nails, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms.
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Improving nail health
Fingernails are protective structures that grow at the end of each finger. They are made up of specialised cells that are produced at the nail's base and pushed forward as new cells form. The nail root determines the length, while the nail bed determines the thickness.
Nail health is an important aspect of personal grooming and can be an indicator of overall health. Here are some tips to improve and maintain nail health:
- Maintain a healthy diet - A nutrient-dense and varied diet is essential for nail health. Deficiencies in crucial vitamins and minerals can affect nail strength and growth. Consider taking a multivitamin with minerals to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
- Stay hydrated - Drinking enough water helps nails retain moisture, preventing them from becoming brittle, weak, and prone to breaking and peeling.
- Supplement with Biotin - Biotin, a member of the vitamin B family, has been shown in studies to increase nail thickness and prevent splitting and breaking. A daily dose of 2.5 milligrams of biotin, taken consistently for several months, can significantly improve nail health.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and treatments - Regular exposure to harsh chemicals and treatments, such as those used in manicures and pedicures, can lead to dry, brittle nails and chronic nail bed infections. Take your own tools to the manicure to reduce the risk of infections and choose your salon carefully.
- Seek professional help if needed - If you've tried various remedies and lifestyle changes without success, consider consulting a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can evaluate your nail health, ask about your routine, and prescribe prescription-strength nail treatments if necessary.
Remember, nail health is influenced by various factors, including overall health, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions. Taking a holistic approach to nail care and seeking professional guidance when needed can help you achieve and maintain healthy nails.
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Frequently asked questions
The nail root and nail bed are responsible for the length and thickness of the nail, respectively. The matrix, located beneath the skin at the inner edge of the nail plate, produces new cells that advance forward to form the nail. The nail is pushed forward as new cells form behind it.
On average, a healthy person's fingernails grow about 3 to 3.5 millimetres per month. However, this rate can vary depending on factors such as age, nutrition, finger, and dominant hand, with nails growing faster during the day and in the summer.
Poor circulation and aging can slow down nail growth. Additionally, trauma to the nail, such as catching it on something, can increase the risk of injury. This may cause the body to send an influx of blood and nutrients to the area, potentially speeding up nail growth.
