Liam Carter
Fingernails and toenails can be injured in a variety of ways, including blows to the nail, closing fingers in doors, and cuts from sharp objects. These injuries can cause the nail to detach from the nail bed, resulting in bleeding, pain, and potential infection. While a detached nail cannot be reattached, proper treatment can promote healing and ensure that the new nail grows back smoothly. The growth rate of nails is typically around 0.1 inches per month, and it takes approximately 3-6 months for fingernails and 12 months for toenails to completely regrow. However, injuries affecting the nail bed and matrix can slow down nail growth for about 3 months, and severe damage may result in permanent deformities or the nail not growing back at all.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average nail growth rate | A bit more than one-tenth of an inch per month |
| Nail growth time | 3-6 months for fingernails, 12 months for toenails |
| Factors affecting nail growth | Damage to the nail matrix, nail bed, or proximal nail fold |
| Nail matrix damage | May result in permanent nail deformation |
| Nail bed damage | May cause whitish changes in the nail |
| Proximal nail fold damage | May cause scarring |
| Treatment for nail damage | May include medication, nail trephination, or surgical procedures |
| Prevention of nail damage | Well-rounded diet and good general health |
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What You'll Learn
Fingernails take 3-6 months to regrow, toenails take longer
Fingernails and toenails can be injured in a variety of ways, from a blow to the nail to closing a finger or toe in a door. Nails are also prone to damage from working, playing, or repeated trauma, such as ill-fitting shoes. Longer nails are more susceptible to damage, as they can be levered off the nail bed or crushed in an athletic shoe.
The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails form, and it can be damaged by injuries or certain health conditions. Minor damage to the nail matrix can cause temporary changes in the appearance of the nail, while severe damage can result in the nail falling off. Once the nail matrix heals, the nail will usually start to grow again, although it may take several weeks for the new nail to become visible. In cases of severe nail matrix damage, the nail may not grow back at all or may be permanently deformed.
Nails grow at a rate of about one-tenth of an inch per month, with fingernails taking 3-6 months to completely regrow. Toenails grow more slowly, usually at close to half the rate of fingernails, and can take up to 12 months to grow back. If the nail bed and nail matrix are not damaged, the nail should regrow normally. However, if there is damage to the nail matrix, the growing nail may contain defects, such as grooves, ridges, or misshapen areas.
Proper care is essential for nail health. A well-rounded diet and good general health promote strong nails. Cuticles also play a crucial role in protecting the growth of cells and preventing infection. Additionally, certain habits, such as nail biting and repetitive picking, can cause trauma to the nails and increase the risk of infection.
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Nail matrix damage can cause permanent nail deformities
Nails are produced by the nail matrix, which is a small but vital part of our hands and feet. The nail matrix is responsible for the growth of strong, healthy nails. It creates new cells that become our fingernails or toenails. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix, which is under the base of the nail. The sterile matrix lies underneath the nail, and the lunula (the white crescent shape at the base of the nail) is the only visible part of the nail matrix.
The nail matrix is quite sensitive to damage, and injuries and certain health conditions can interfere with nail growth. Minor damage to the nail matrix can cause temporary changes to the nail's appearance, such as changes in texture or colour, dents, and horizontal ridges or lines. Severe injuries can cause the nail to fall off, and in cases of severe nail matrix damage, some or all of the nail may not grow back.
Damage to the nail matrix can be caused by mechanical injuries, such as hitting or pinching a finger, dropping something heavy on a toe, or wearing tight shoes. These situations create micro-injuries that disrupt the process of healthy nail growth, causing the nail plate to become thinner, deformed, and deeper grooves and ridges to appear. Improperly performed nail care procedures, such as aggressively removing nail designs or using overly sharp tools, can also damage the nail matrix.
Infections, such as bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, can also cause nail matrix damage by triggering inflammation of the matrix, weakening the condition of the entire nail. Peripheral artery disease (PAD), which causes reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, can affect the nail matrix and slow nail growth. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy, can also cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges) or slow nail growth.
If the damage to the nail matrix is not permanent, proper nail growth after treatment is possible. However, it may take 6 to 12 months for the nail to return to its pre-injury state. Protective measures, such as using special dressings or gels, can be used to support regeneration and accelerate nail growth. In the case of permanent damage to the nail matrix, it is impossible for the nail to regenerate, and external actions can only improve the aesthetics and appearance of the nail using nail styling products.
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Subungual hematoma is a common nail injury
Subungual hematoma, or bleeding under a fingernail or toenail, is a common nail injury. It is usually caused by a blow or crush injury to the distal phalanx, such as getting a finger pinched in a doorway or hitting a toe on an object. This can result in blood collecting under the nail, causing intense pain and throbbing due to the pressure exerted on the nail bed. While subungual hematomas can be painful, they are typically not a cause for concern unless accompanied by broken bones or damage to the nail bed and/or surrounding tissues.
If you experience a subungual hematoma, you can manage the pain and reduce swelling by icing and elevating the affected area. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, Advil, or Motrin can also help alleviate minor pain. If the pain is severe or persistent, it is recommended to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional may perform a procedure called decompression or trephination to relieve pressure and pain. This involves creating a small hole in the nail to drain the underlying blood.
It is important to note that a subungual hematoma should be addressed promptly, ideally within 48 hours of the injury. After this window, there is a risk of infection and abnormal tissue growth, such as melanoma or a nevus. Additionally, if you notice any discoloration or changes in your nails without any apparent injury, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes, such as subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer that affects the nail matrix.
While nails can regrow after a subungual hematoma, the process takes time. Fingernails typically grow at a rate of about one-tenth of an inch per month and can take 3-6 months to completely regrow. Toenails tend to grow more slowly, often taking closer to 6 months to fully regrow. In some cases, the new nail may not appear completely normal, even with proper treatment. Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent nail injuries and seek appropriate medical care when needed.
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Home treatments can help minor nail injuries heal
A healthy nail typically grows at a rate of 0.13 inches per month, requiring 3-6 months to completely regrow. However, injuries to the nail can slow down this growth rate. Fortunately, home treatments can help minor nail injuries heal and restore their normal growth rate over time. Here are some instructive tips to treat minor nail injuries at home:
Treat the wound:
If any part of your nail is hanging off, gently trim away the part not connected to your skin using sterile scissors. This step prevents further injury and irritation. Then, gently clean the wound by washing it with soap and warm water to prevent infection. If the wound is bleeding, avoid covering it with a dry bandage or gauze as it will stick to the wound once the bleeding stops. Instead, apply petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist, and then cover it with gauze or a bandage. Repeat these steps daily while the wound heals.
Manage pain and swelling:
To alleviate pain, take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. For swelling, apply ice to the injured area and elevate it above the level of your heart. This helps reduce both pain and swelling.
Protect the nail while it heals:
Keep a light dressing on the nail, such as an adhesive bandage or a small piece of gauze, to provide padding and protection. Avoid using sticky products directly on the nail to prevent further irritation. Keep your nails short to prevent them from catching on objects and causing further injury.
Prevent infection:
Take the usual local precautions to prevent infection. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increasing pain, swelling, or pus, seek medical attention immediately.
It's important to note that if there is significant damage to the nail bed, matrix, or adjacent tissues, it's best to consult a physician for further assessment and repair. Additionally, if your nail injury isn't improving after a few days of home treatment, consider visiting a board-certified dermatologist to ensure proper healing and address any underlying issues.
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Certain health conditions can affect nail growth
Fingernails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches per month, while toenails grow at almost half that rate. Fingernails can regrow entirely in 3-6 months. Nails are produced by the nail matrix cells that reside in the whitish area (lunula) at the base of the nail. The nail matrix has two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix.
Injuries and certain health conditions can damage the nail matrix and interfere with nail growth. Minor damage to the nail matrix can temporarily change the nail's appearance. A severe injury could cause the nail to fall off. Once the nail matrix heals, the nail will usually start to grow again. However, in cases of severe nail matrix damage, some or all of the nail may not grow back.
- Eczema: Severe eczema can affect the nail matrix and temporarily hinder nail growth. It can cause Beau's lines, pitting (small, pinhole-like dots), and texture or colour changes.
- Psoriasis: Nail psoriasis can cause white lines, pitting, and crumbling of the nails. Up to 80% of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis.
- Subungual melanoma: Also known as nail matrix melanoma, this is a type of skin cancer that affects the nail matrix. It is characterised by brown or black discolouration on the nail.
- Thyroid disease: Thyroid issues can affect the shape, integrity, and colour of nails.
- Nail–patella syndrome: This congenital condition can result in improperly formed or missing nails.
- Onycholysis: This condition occurs when the toenail or fingernail separates from the nail bed, often due to an underlying health condition or injury.
- Onychogryphosis: This condition causes the nail to become overgrown and thick, often affecting the big toe. It can cause one portion of the nail to grow longer than the other.
- Fungal infections: Nail fungus can cause the nails to become thick, discoloured, and brittle.
- Paronychia: This is an infection caused by bacteria that get underneath the tissue at the side of the nail, leading to swelling and irritation.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies can impact nail health, with horizontal ridges or lines potentially indicating a lack of vitamins and minerals.
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Frequently asked questions
A new fingernail will take about 4 to 6 months to grow to replace the lost nail. Toenails take about 12 months to grow back.
For minor nail injuries, you can treat them at home by applying soap and removing any jewellery from your hand. You should also gently wash any minor cuts or scrapes and apply a bandage if needed. For more serious nail injuries, you should go to an urgent care centre or the emergency room.
The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails form. It has two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix. Minor damage to your nail matrix can temporarily change your nail's appearance. If your nail matrix heals, your nail will usually start to grow again.
Nails can be injured by a blow to the nail, closing your finger in a door or drawer, or by cutting your finger with a sharp object. Toenails can be injured by ill-fitting shoes, which can cause deformities in the nails.
