Noah Sinclair
Fingernails and toenails have very different growth rates. On average, fingernails grow at a rate of about 0.1 mm per day or 3.47 mm per month, while toenails grow at an average rate of 1.62 mm per month. The rate of growth of fingernails also depends on which finger the nail is on. For example, the index finger nail is known to grow the fastest, while the little finger grows the slowest. The rate of growth also depends on the hand; nails on the dominant hand grow faster.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average growth rate of a thumbnail | 0.123 mm per day at age 23, 0.095 mm per day at age 67 |
| Average growth rate of fingernails | 3.47 mm per month, 0.1 mm per day, 3 mm per month |
| Average growth rate of toenails | 1.62 mm per month, 0.25-0.5 mm per week |
| Time taken for a thumbnail to grow back | 6 months |
| Time taken for a toenail to grow back | 18 months |
| Factors affecting nail growth rate | Age, hand, finger length, season, time of day, hormone levels, overall health, nutrition, underlying conditions, nail biting, trauma, blood circulation, genetics |
| Ways to improve nail growth | Take biotin supplements, vitamin C, practice good nail hygiene, keep nails strong and healthy |
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What You'll Learn
Thumb nail growth rate
On average, fingernails grow about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or around 3.47 millimeters per month. This rate can vary depending on various factors, including age, hormone levels, overall health, and the finger on which the nail is located. For example, the little finger nail grows slower than other fingernails, and the index finger nail is the fastest-growing. The thumb nail's growth rate falls somewhere in between these two extremes.
Age plays a significant role in nail growth rate. Starting at age 25, the rate of nail growth begins to decrease gradually, with a noticeable difference in speed between younger and older adults. For example, Dr. William Bean observed that his left thumbnail grew at a rate of 0.123 mm per day when he was 23 years old. By the time he reached 67, this rate had slowed to 0.095 mm per day. This change in speed may be attributed to a decrease in blood circulation and hormone levels as individuals age.
Hormone levels can also influence nail growth rates. Pregnancy, puberty, and lactation are periods of hormonal fluctuations that can affect nail growth. Nails tend to grow faster during puberty due to the imbalance of hormones, and this growth rate declines as hormone levels stabilise with age. Pregnancy can also stimulate nail growth, while lactation may slow it down.
The health of an individual can also impact their nail growth rate. Certain nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions may cause nails to grow more slowly or exhibit other abnormalities. Additionally, nail biting or trauma to the nail can affect growth rates. Biting or trauma stimulates circulation in the nail bed, increasing growth rates by up to three times compared to healthy nails.
While there is no magic formula for speeding up nail growth, maintaining strong and healthy nails is essential. Taking biotin supplements, vitamin C, and avoiding acrylic and gel services can help support nail health and potentially enhance growth. Regular nail clipping and proper nail hygiene are also recommended to promote growth and prevent issues like ingrown toenails.
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Factors affecting nail growth
The rate of nail growth depends on a variety of factors, some of which are endogenous and some exogenous. Endogenous factors include age, gender, and hormone levels. Exogenous factors include diet, medication, illness, pregnancy, circulation, climate, and skin conditions.
Age is a significant factor in nail growth rates. As people age, their nails tend to grow slower. A 2007 study observed that the growth rate of Dr. William Bean's left thumbnail decreased from 0.123 mm per day at age 23 to 0.095 mm per day at age 67. This decline in speed may be attributed to the slowdown in blood circulation that occurs as people age.
Gender also plays a role in nail growth, with men's nails generally growing quicker than women's.
Hormone levels can influence nail growth rates, with pregnancy being a notable example. Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that lead to rapid nail growth. However, during lactation, hormone levels can decrease the rate of nail growth. Puberty is another period of hormonal changes that can affect nail growth, with nail growth peaking during this time and slowing down as hormone levels balance out over time.
Diet is another critical factor in nail growth. A healthy and nutritious diet can promote faster and stronger nail growth. Certain supplements, such as biotin, vitamin C, and protein, can also enhance nail growth and strength.
Medication can impact nail growth, causing it to speed up or slow down. Additionally, certain medications can affect nail strength and colour. Chemotherapy, for instance, can cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges) and slow nail growth.
Illnesses and injuries can also influence nail growth. Serious health events, such as a heart attack, COVID-19, or pneumonia, can interrupt nail growth and cause Beau's lines. Injuries to the nail matrix, such as pinching or crushing the finger, can result in bruising, ridges, discolouration, or even nail loss.
Circulation is another factor that affects nail growth. Poor circulation can slow down nail growth by reducing the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the nail.
Climate and seasonal changes can also impact nail growth. Nails tend to grow quicker in hotter environments, resulting in varying growth rates throughout the year.
Finally, skin conditions and diseases can affect the nail matrix and slow down nail growth. Examples include severe eczema, which can cause Beau's lines, pitting, and texture or colour changes; psoriasis, which can cause white lines, pitting, and crumbling; and subungual melanoma, which can cause brown or black discolouration of the nail.
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Toenail vs. fingernail growth
Fingernails and toenails are made of the same substance, a protein called keratin, which is also the structural component of hair. The growth of both is dependent on the nail matrix, which creates new cells that become nails. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix, and the remaining 10% comes from the sterile matrix, which is also responsible for keeping the nail attached to the skin.
The growth rate of fingernails and toenails varies. On average, fingernails grow about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or 3.47 millimeters per month. The growth rate depends on factors such as which finger the nail is on, which hand it is on, age, hormone levels, and overall health. For example, the little finger's nail grows slower than other fingernails, and nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster. Fingernails also grow faster during the day and in the summer.
Toenails, on the other hand, grow at a much slower rate, at an average of 1.62 millimeters per month or about 0.25-0.5 millimeters per week. Toenails are generally subjected to less trauma than fingernails, and the difference in temperature affects the blood flow to the toes, which may contribute to their slower growth rate.
If a fingernail is lost, it may take up to six months for it to completely grow back. Meanwhile, a lost toenail can take up to a year and a half to fully regrow. This is three times as long as it takes for a fingernail to regrow.
While there are no scientifically proven methods to make nails grow faster, certain vitamins and supplements, such as biotin, vitamin C, and protein, can help improve nail health and strength, potentially contributing to longer nails over time. Maintaining good nail hygiene and addressing any nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions can also help support nail growth.
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Nail growth and nutrition
On average, fingernails grow about a tenth of a millimeter per day, but this rate can vary depending on factors such as age, hormone levels, overall health, and nutrition. Toenails, on the other hand, grow much slower, at an average rate of 1.62 mm per month.
Good nail hygiene and proper nutrition are essential for promoting nail growth and maintaining strong and healthy nails. Nutrient deficiencies can affect the appearance and health of your nails, so ensuring adequate intake of certain vitamins and minerals is crucial.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is often associated with nail health. While biotin deficiency is rare, consuming biotin through supplements or foods can help strengthen brittle nails and improve their growth. Other B vitamins, such as vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B12, are also important. Folate contributes to red blood cell formation and new cell development, while vitamin B12 plays a role in iron absorption and red blood cell production. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to nail discolouration, rigidity, and brittleness.
Zinc is another vital mineral for nail growth and repair. It is required for the growth and division of nail cells, and a deficiency can cause white spots on the nails and slow down their growth. Incorporating zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas can support healthy nail growth.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which provides strength and structure to nails. It also enhances iron absorption from plant-based sources. Including vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli can help keep your nails strong and resilient.
Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids help maintain healthy cell membranes, keeping nails moisturized and preventing dryness and brittleness. Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, protects nails from damage and supports nail growth by improving blood circulation. Iron is also crucial for nail health, as it is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which delivers oxygen to nail cells. Deficiency in iron can lead to brittle, ridged, or spoon-shaped nails.
Overall, a balanced diet that includes whole, nutrient-dense foods, adequate hydration, and possibly supplements recommended by a healthcare professional can promote nail growth and overall nail health.
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How to speed up nail growth
On average, a fingernail grows about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or about 3.5 millimeters per month. The rate of growth depends on factors like age, hormones, and overall health. Toenails grow much slower, at an average rate of 1.62 mm per month.
Take biotin supplements
Biotin is a B vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy. It is also known to boost the strength of hair and nails. Marcela Correa, a medical nail technician, says that biotin is "packed with protein and amino acids, which is great for the keratin production in the body, making it essential in the growth of nails." Grant also recommends taking vitamin C with biotin.
Maintain a balanced diet
According to Dr. Shokeen, "A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can contribute to healthier nail growth. Foods like eggs, lean meats, fish, beans, nuts, and leafy greens can provide essential nutrients for nail health."
Massage nails and cuticles with nourishing oils
Dr. Shokeen suggests that regularly massaging nails and cuticles with nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil can promote growth and strengthen them.
Keep nails moisturized and dry
Moisturize your hands and nails with lotion, making sure to rub it into your fingernails, especially at the base where the cuticles are located. At the same time, keep your nails dry to prevent bacteria from growing beneath them.
Practice good nail hygiene
Keep your nails well-maintained and clean. Trim your nails straight across and then round the tips into a soft curve. Avoid biting your nails or cutting them too short.
Avoid using acrylic and gel services
Give your nails a break from monthly appointments that use acrylic and gel services.
Keep your nails painted
Some people find that keeping their nails painted helps them grow them out. However, be careful with nail hardeners as they can make your nails brittle and more prone to breaking.
While there are no scientifically proven methods to make nails grow faster, these tips can help increase the overall health and strength of your nails, allowing them to grow longer and stronger.
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Frequently asked questions
Thumbnails, like other fingernails, grow at an average rate of 3.47mm per month or about a tenth of a millimeter per day.
The rate of nail growth depends on various factors, including age, hormone levels, overall health, and which hand and finger the nail is on. For example, the nails on your dominant hand tend to grow faster, as do the nails on your longer fingers.
While there is no proven method to make nails grow faster, maintaining good nail hygiene and taking biotin supplements can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking as they grow.
It typically takes about six months for a fingernail to grow back completely if it falls off.
No, thumbnails and other fingernails grow faster than toenails. Toenails grow at an average rate of 1.62mm per month, while thumbnails and fingernails grow at about 3.47mm per month.
