Isla Bennett
Fingernails grow at an average rate of 3.47 millimeters (mm) per month or about a tenth of a millimeter per day. However, this rate can vary depending on various factors such as age, sex, season, exercise level, diet, and genetics. For example, nails tend to grow faster on the dominant hand, during the day, and in the summer. Toenails, on the other hand, grow much slower than fingernails, at an average rate of 1.62 mm per month. While there are no scientifically proven methods to make nails grow faster, maintaining good nail hygiene and taking biotin supplements can help improve nail health and prevent breakage, allowing nails to grow longer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average time for a nail to fully grow out | 12 weeks |
| Filing technique | File in one direction, using long, swift but gentle strokes |
| Vitamins | Folic acid (vitamin B9), prenatal vitamins, hair, skin and nails vitamins |
| Diet | Colourful fruit and vegetables, leafy greens, oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocado, eggs, lean meat, whole grains, sweet potato, kefir, miso, live yogurt, kimchi |
| Water | Avoid soaking hands or nails in water |
| Cuticle care | Use cuticle oil regularly, use cuticle remover, push cuticles back |
| Nail care | Use nail strengthener, use a glass nail file, maintain regular appointments, use builder gel (BIAB), use nail growth treatments |
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What You'll Learn
- Filing technique: File in one direction, using long, swift, gentle strokes
- Diet: Consume a variety of colourful fruit and vegetables, leafy greens, protein, biotin, and vitamins B9 and folic acid
- Water exposure: Avoid water exposure as it is bad for nails. Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes
- Nail care: Use nail/cuticle oil regularly to avoid breakage
- Nail strengtheners: Apply dermatologist-approved nail strengtheners to protect and fortify nails
Filing technique: File in one direction, using long, swift, gentle strokes
Filing your nails is an important step in achieving the desired nail length. The recommended technique is to file in one direction, using long, swift, gentle strokes. This technique is crucial to achieving smooth and strong nails.
When filing your nails, it is essential to use long, swift, and gentle strokes in a single direction. Back-and-forth sawing motions can cause the nail to splinter, resulting in weak and uneven edges. Filing in one direction ensures a smooth and even finish. It gives you more control over the shape you want to achieve.
Starting from the outside edge and moving towards the centre is a recommended approach. This method provides a smooth finish and allows for better control over the nail shape. It helps prevent splintering and strengthens the sides of the nails.
Using a glass nail file is preferable to metal files or clippers. Glass files create a smooth edge and are gentler on the nails. The fine grit of a glass file helps achieve a neat and precise shape without causing damage. Quality glass nail files are long-lasting and do not dull over time, ensuring effective and consistent results.
Regular filing is essential to maintain the shape and strength of your nails. Filing a bit every few days helps prevent breakage and keeps the nails looking neat. It is also crucial to moisturize your nails and cuticles regularly to promote nail health and flexibility.
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Diet: Consume a variety of colourful fruit and vegetables, leafy greens, protein, biotin, and vitamins B9 and folic acid
A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining healthy nails. Nails are made of the protein keratin, so it is important to include plenty of protein in your diet. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy are good sources of animal protein. For plant-based proteins, opt for beans, legumes, quinoa, tofu, nuts, and some vegetables.
In addition to protein, include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet. Orange and yellow vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes, are packed with vitamin A, which helps keep your nails shiny and prevents dryness. Green leafy vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach are rich in iron and will keep your nails in peak condition.
Nuts, seeds, and avocados are also excellent additions to your diet, as they are good sources of healthy fats, which supply the body with magnesium, essential for nail health. Biotin is another critical nutrient for nail health, promoting healthy cell growth and aiding in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids. Eggs, dairy, liver, salmon, avocado, sweet potato, nuts, seeds, and even cauliflower are good sources of biotin.
Finally, hydration is key. Water aids in delivering nutrients and oxygen to the cells, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Fatty acid-rich foods, such as flaxseed, also encourage healthy cell development, which is beneficial for nail growth.
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Water exposure: Avoid water exposure as it is bad for nails. Wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes
Growing long, natural nails requires patience and dedication. One of the most important things to remember is to avoid prolonged water exposure, as it can be detrimental to nail health. Here are several paragraphs explaining why water exposure is bad for nails and how to mitigate its effects:
Water exposure is something to be mindful of when trying to grow long nails. Nails are highly absorbent, and water causes them to expand and then contract, putting a lot of strain on the nail cells. This makes the nails more susceptible to weakening, peeling, and breakage. Therefore, it is advisable to minimise direct water contact with your nails.
Wearing gloves is an effective way to protect your nails from water damage when performing tasks such as cleaning or washing dishes. Gloves act as a barrier, preventing your nails from absorbing too much water and thus reducing the risk of nail flexibility, softening, and subsequent breakage. It is also recommended to wear gloves while swimming, especially in chlorinated water, to shield your nails from dehydration and discolouration.
To further protect your nails from water damage, consider using a base coat and a top coat. A high-performance base coat acts as a protective layer, directly contacting the nail and blocking water penetration. A top coat adds an extra layer of protection, hardening and strengthening the nails. Look for products containing plant extracts, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and nourishing oils.
Additionally, maintaining well-hydrated nails is crucial. Moisturising your cuticles before and after water exposure can help minimise damage. Use cuticle oils or hand creams with protective and hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, or lanolin. These products help restore moisture and repair the skin's barrier, keeping your nails and skin nourished.
Finally, if you plan to be in water for extended periods, keep your nails short. Shorter nails have less surface area to absorb water, reducing the risk of water-related damage. By combining these strategies, you can effectively protect your nails from water exposure and promote their health and strength as they grow.
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Nail care: Use nail/cuticle oil regularly to avoid breakage
Growing long, natural nails can be a challenging task, especially if your nails are brittle and prone to breakage. One of the most important things to remember is that water is one of the worst things for your nails. While washing your hands is essential, you should avoid soaking your hands or nails for too long.
To grow long, healthy nails, it's crucial to prioritize nail care. This includes regular use of nail/cuticle oil, which can help prevent breakage and promote nail growth. Cuticle oil is a blend of oils, vitamins, and nourishing ingredients applied directly to the cuticle, the thick layer of skin around the base of your nails. Cuticles play a vital role in maintaining nail health by acting as a protective barrier against bacteria and fungi. They also help lock in moisture and prevent nail breakage.
Cuticles tend to dry out due to frequent hand washing, dry air, and exposure to harsh cleansing agents. This can lead to chapped, cracked, and dry cuticles. By using cuticle oil regularly, you can actively moisturize and nourish your cuticles, improving their health and appearance. Cuticle oils with sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or vitamin E are highly recommended for their moisturizing and reparative properties.
To use cuticle oil effectively, apply a small drop near the cuticle of each finger and gently massage it into the nail and cuticle area. You can do this once or twice a day, preferably as part of your morning and nighttime routine. Regular use of cuticle oil will help strengthen your nails, making them more resilient and less prone to breakage.
In addition to cuticle oil, there are other tips to consider for growing long nails. It's important to use a glass nail file instead of clippers to shape your nails and avoid splintering. Maintaining a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can also support nail health and strength. Finally, consider using a builder gel or nail strengthener to provide a protective layer and reduce the risk of chipping and breaking.
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Nail strengtheners: Apply dermatologist-approved nail strengtheners to protect and fortify nails
Fingernails grow at an average rate of approximately 3.0 mm per month, while toenails grow at about 1.0 mm per month. From the age of 25 onwards, the growth rate of nails decreases by roughly 0.5% each year. Nails can become brittle and weak and may start to chip or peel due to various factors, such as prolonged exposure to water, gel nail polish removal, or habits like nail-biting. To counter this, you can apply dermatologist-approved nail strengtheners to protect and fortify nails.
Nail strengtheners are topical treatments that promote nail growth by ensuring the nails are well-sealed and hydrated. These products typically contain ingredients like keratin and biotin, which reinforce nail structure and enhance thickness. Additionally, many nail strengtheners include moisturizing agents to combat dryness and brittleness, which are common causes of nail breakage.
When selecting a nail strengthener, it is recommended to avoid those containing formaldehyde. While formaldehyde will initially harden the nail, over time, it can make the nail more brittle and may cause severe allergic reactions. Instead, opt for products that contain moisturizing agents, such as hyaluronic acid, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil, which will help to hydrate and strengthen the nails and cuticles.
Some specific nail strengtheners recommended by dermatologists include treatments from OPI, CND, and Nailtiques. The OPI serum is noted for its ability to strengthen nails and allow them to grow longer with less breakage. The CND product has been praised for its effectiveness over years of regular use. The Nailtiques treatment is designed for soft, peeling, or splitting nails and strengthens them without the use of formaldehyde or toluene.
In addition to using nail strengtheners, you can also promote nail growth and strength by maintaining a healthy diet. A nutritious diet that includes colourful fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, oily fish, nuts, seeds, avocado, eggs, lean meat, whole grains, and sweet potato can contribute to stronger and healthier nails. It is also important to stay hydrated and minimize the consumption of alcohol and refined sugars.
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Frequently asked questions
It may take up to six months for a fingernail to completely grow back.
Nails grow at an average rate of 3.47 millimeters (mm) per month or about a tenth of a millimeter per day.
No, toenails grow much slower than fingernails. Toenails grow at an average rate of 1.62 mm per month.
The growth rate of nails depends on various factors such as age, sex, season, exercise level, diet, and hereditary factors.
No, the nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster. Additionally, the nails on longer fingers and the dominant hand's little finger grow slower than the other fingernails.
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