Sophia Delgado
Fingernails and toenails are constantly growing, but at a very slow rate. On average, fingernails grow about 3.47 millimeters per month or about one-tenth of a millimeter per day. Toenails grow at a slower rate, at an average of 1.62 millimeters per month. Several factors can influence the rate of nail growth, including which hand it is, your age, hormone levels, and overall health. For example, nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster, and nails grow faster during the summertime. If you lose a fingernail or toenail due to trauma or infection, it can take several weeks to several months for the nail to grow back.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average daily growth of fingernails | 0.1 mm |
| Average daily growth of toenails | < 0.1 mm |
| Average monthly growth of fingernails | 3.47 mm |
| Average monthly growth of toenails | 1.62 mm |
| Time taken for a fingernail to grow back | 4-6 months |
| Time taken for a toenail to grow back | 12-18 months |
| Factors affecting nail growth | Overall health, age, hormone levels, and environment |
| Health conditions that can affect nail growth | Heart attack, COVID-19, pneumonia, chemotherapy, and other medications |
| Nail changes that require medical attention | Change in color, texture, or shape, nail lifting, curving nails, dents in nails, redness and swelling around the nail, and change in nail color to greenish-black |
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What You'll Learn
Fingernails grow faster than toenails
Fingernails and toenails are made of dead cells that have moved up and pushed through the skin as new cells form underneath. While it is known that fingernails grow faster than toenails, the exact reason for this is not fully understood.
One theory is that fingers receive more blood flow because they are used more often, which likely contributes to faster fingernail growth. The hands are closer to the heart than the feet, so more blood is flowing through the fingers than the toes. Nails also grow more slowly in cold weather when blood flow is restricted.
Another theory is that the more you use a digit, the quicker the nail grows. The body assumes that fingernails are being worn down by constant use of the fingers, so it calls for speedier growth to make up the difference. Toenails, on the other hand, are generally subjected to less trauma as they are protected inside shoes.
Fingernails grow at an average rate of 3.47 mm per month, or about a tenth of a millimeter per day. Toenails grow at a much slower rate of 1.62 mm per month. If you lose a toenail, it can take up to 18 months for it to completely grow back, whereas a fingernail can take up to 6 months to regrow.
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Illnesses and medications can affect nail growth
Illnesses and certain health conditions can affect nail growth and cause nail abnormalities. For example, a serious health event like a heart attack or an illness like COVID-19 or pneumonia can interrupt new nail growth and cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges in your nails). Lung disease and rheumatoid arthritis can cause yellow nail syndrome, where nails turn yellow, thicken, and seem to stop growing. Pitting nails, which are dents in your nails that look like they were made by an ice pick, could indicate an underlying disease affecting your entire body.
Medications can also affect nail growth and structure. For instance, chemotherapy and other medications can cause Beau's lines or slow nail growth. Medications may also cause Mees' lines (white bands across your nails) and nail colour changes. The higher the dose of the drug, the more likely it is to cause nail disease. A wide variety of medications have been reported to cause nail disease, including isotretinoin, valproic acid, lithium, and acitretin. These medications are often used to treat acne, psoriasis, and cancer. It is important to note that nail changes due to medications are usually cosmetic and do not affect overall health. However, if you notice any nail changes, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
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Nail growth is impacted by your overall health
Fingernails grow at an average rate of about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or about 3.47 millimeters per month. Toenails, on the other hand, take longer to grow, with an average growth period of up to 18 months for a completely new toenail.
Several factors influence nail growth rates, including overall health, age, hormones, and habits. For instance, nail growth can slow down if you are sick or malnourished. Certain health conditions can also impact nail growth, such as thyroid disease, hypopituitarism, diabetes, and osteoporosis, which have been linked to fragile and slow-growing nails. Additionally, fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, and other illnesses like COVID-19 or pneumonia, can interrupt nail growth and cause ridges or discoloration.
Hormones play a significant role in nail growth as well. Pregnancy, for example, can cause an increase in nail growth due to hormonal changes. Similarly, people receiving androgen replacement therapy (testosterone) may experience enhanced nail growth.
External factors, such as the environment, can also influence nail growth. Research suggests that warm weather is associated with increased nail growth, while cold environments tend to slow it down.
Nail habits can also affect growth. Onychophagia (nail-biting) and onychotillomania (nail-picking) are chronic conditions that can damage the nail matrix, nail bed, and surrounding skin, leading to slower nail growth. Additionally, the frequent use of glue-on nails, toxic polishes, and nail cosmetics can weaken nails, causing them to become brittle and break, which impedes growth.
To promote nail growth, it is essential to care for your nails and maintain overall health. This includes taking supplements like biotin, which has been shown to increase nail thickness and overall nail health, and collagen, which has been linked to increased nail growth and reduced breakage. Applying lotion after activities that dry out the nails and using non-toxic or water-based polishes can also help.
In summary, nail growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, with overall health playing a crucial role. By understanding these factors and taking appropriate care measures, individuals can promote healthy and optimal nail growth.
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The appearance of your nails can indicate health issues
Fingernails grow at an average rate of about a tenth of a millimeter per day, which is about 3.47 millimeters per month. Toenails, on the other hand, take longer to regrow, with an average regrowth time of up to 18 months. Several factors influence the rate of nail growth, including hand dominance, age, hormone levels, and overall health. For example, nails tend to grow faster during the summertime and on your dominant hand. Additionally, during pregnancy, hormones can cause nails to grow quicker.
The appearance of your nails can indicate various health issues. Here are some common nail concerns and what they may signify:
- Yellow Nails: This can be caused by an infection, a reaction to nail products, smoking, or the natural aging process. In rare cases, it could indicate a more serious issue such as yellow nail syndrome, which is associated with respiratory problems and limb swelling.
- White Spots: These are generally harmless and are usually the result of minor trauma to the nail. However, they may occasionally indicate liver or kidney failure.
- Dark Lines: Also known as black or splinter hemorrhages, these can appear brown or dark red and look like splinters. They are typically caused by trauma to the nail but could indicate underlying issues such as psoriasis, endocarditis, or nail melanoma in rare cases.
- Ridges: Ridges on the nails are typically the result of direct trauma. However, if they appear on multiple nails simultaneously, they could indicate a more severe illness.
- "Spoon" Nails: Nails that have become concave, or "spoon" nails, are usually a sign of iron deficiency anemia and can be treated with iron supplements.
- Nail Biting: Excessive nail biting or picking at the skin around the nails could be a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In such cases, psychiatric medication or bitter-tasting nail polish may be prescribed.
- Nail Fungus: Symptoms include yellow or dark discoloration, brittleness, and thickening of the nails. Fungal infections are usually treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications, but severe cases may require surgical removal of the nail.
- Beau's Lines: Horizontal ridges in the nails can be caused by a serious illness or injury, such as a heart attack, COVID-19, or pneumonia, or medical treatments like chemotherapy.
- Brittle, Weak, and Peeling Nails: These issues are often the result of poor nutrition or digestion rather than a systemic disease. Ensuring a balanced diet that includes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for nail health.
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You can strengthen nails to prevent breakage
Fingernails grow at an average rate of about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or about 3.47 millimeters per month. Toenails, on the other hand, take longer to grow back, with a regrowth period of up to 18 months. The rate of nail growth is influenced by various factors, including the hand (dominant or non-dominant), finger length, age, hormone levels, and overall health. Nails grow faster during the day and in the summertime. Certain health conditions, injuries, and medications can also impact nail growth.
Now, here are some tips to strengthen your nails and prevent breakage:
Take biotin supplements: Biotin, also known as vitamin H and vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps strengthen nails and hair. It is not stored in the body, so daily consumption is necessary. Most adults should aim for 30 micrograms (mcg) of biotin per day, but always consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Use nail hardeners sparingly: While nail hardeners can strengthen nails and reduce breakage, prolonged use can break down the nail over time. Limit or avoid strengtheners containing formaldehyde or formalin.
Avoid glue-on nails and toxic polishes: Frequently applying glue-on nails or toxic polishes can increase the risk of nail breakage. Opt for nontoxic or water-based polishes whenever possible, and give your nails a break from polish now and then to allow them to grow and strengthen.
Groom your nails: Keep your nails clean and trim them regularly with a clean pair of clippers. When filing your nails, do so in one direction instead of a back-and-forth motion, and be gentle on the sides to avoid weakening the nails.
Moisturize: After removing nail polish or if you feel dehydrated, moisturize your nails and hands with hand cream. You can do this every time you wash your hands.
Avoid using your nails as tools: Using your nails to open cans or reach into small spaces can lead to chipping and breakage, weakening your nails over time. Instead, use the pads of your fingers or tools like paper clips.
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Frequently asked questions
Fingernails grow at a rate of about 0.1 millimeters per day, or 3.47 millimeters per month. Toenails grow much slower, at an average rate of 1.62 millimeters per month.
Overall health, age, hormone levels, and the season can all impact nail growth. Nails grow faster in the summertime and during pregnancy, while illness or malnutrition can slow growth.
Taking biotin supplements can increase nail thickness and promote growth. Maintaining a nutritious diet and practicing good nail hygiene can also help support nail growth.
Changes in nail color, texture, or shape can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. If you notice any concerning changes, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist for evaluation and advice.
