Caleb Foster
Nails are made of a protein called keratin, and their growth is influenced by various factors, including age, health, nutrition, genetics, and season. While the growth rate varies from person to person, the average fingernail grows at a rate of 0.1 to 0.15 millimeters per day, or around 2 to 3.5 millimeters per month. Toenails, on the other hand, grow at a slower pace, averaging 1.62 millimeters per month or 0.4 mm per week. The nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster due to more frequent use, and nail growth may also be impacted by certain health conditions and medications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a nutritious diet, and good nail hygiene can promote optimal nail growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average daily growth | 0.1-0.15 mm |
| Average monthly growth | 2-3.47 mm |
| Average weekly growth | 0.7 mm |
| Toenail average weekly growth | 0.4 mm |
| Toenail average monthly growth | 1.62 mm |
| Fingernail regrowth time | 3-6 months |
| Toenail regrowth time | 12-18 months |
| Factors affecting growth | Age, genetics, overall health, nutrition, season, exercise level, diet, hereditary factors, trauma, hormones, and diseases |
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What You'll Learn
Factors affecting nail growth
Fingernails grow on average about a tenth of a millimeter per day, but there are several factors that can affect this rate of growth.
Age
Nail growth slows down as a person ages. Nails tend to grow the fastest between the ages of 10 and 14, with growth slowing down after that period.
Gender
Men's nails tend to grow quicker than women's.
Handedness
The nails on the dominant hand of a person tend to grow faster than those on the non-dominant hand.
Finger
The growth rate of each fingernail differs. The nails on the index and middle fingers grow the fastest, while the little finger grows the slowest.
Season
Nails grow faster in warmer weather or during the summer.
Health
The overall health of a person can affect nail growth. Certain illnesses, such as a heart attack, COVID-19, pneumonia, thyroid disease, hypopituitarism, diabetes, and osteoporosis, can slow down nail growth. Peripheral artery disease, which causes reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, can also affect nail growth.
Medication
Some medications can affect nail growth, making it faster or slower, as well as nail strength. Chemotherapy, for instance, can cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges in the nails) or slow nail growth.
Hormones
Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, can cause nails to grow faster. Hormone imbalances, on the other hand, can cause nails to grow more slowly.
Diet
A healthy and nutritious diet can help nails grow quicker and stronger.
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Average nail growth rate
The average rate of nail growth varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including age, genetics, overall health, nutrition, and environmental factors. Typically, fingernails grow at a rate of around 0.1 to 0.15 millimetres per day, translating to about 2 to 3.5 millimetres per month. Toenails, on the other hand, have a slower growth rate, averaging around 1.62 millimetres per month or about 0.4 millimetres per week.
Age plays a significant role in nail growth. Children and young teens experience faster nail growth, with parents often needing to trim their children's nails every few days. However, as people age, the growth rate gradually slows down. Dr William Bean observed that his left thumbnail growth rate decreased from 0.123 millimetres per day at age 23 to 0.095 millimetres per day at age 67. Additionally, health conditions impacting nail growth become more prevalent with age.
Hormones also influence nail growth rates. Pregnancy, for instance, is associated with accelerated nail growth due to increased metabolism and circulation. On the other hand, lactation may lead to a decrease in nail growth rates. Puberty is another critical period for nail growth, with rates peaking and then declining as hormone levels stabilise.
Certain health conditions and medications can also impact nail growth. For example, people with thyroid disease, hypopituitarism, diabetes, osteoporosis, or fungal infections may experience fragile and slow-growing nails. Additionally, illnesses like onychomycosis, pulmonary tuberculosis, and syphilis can affect nail strength and growth.
Nutrition is another factor that comes into play. Maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet is essential for optimal nail growth. Biotin supplements, for instance, have been shown to reduce nail breakage and improve overall nail health. Conversely, malnutrition can negatively affect nail growth, leading to brittle and fragile nails.
Environmental factors, such as seasonality, also influence nail growth rates. Nails tend to grow faster during the warmer months of the year and slower in colder environments. This may be attributed to increased circulation and blood flow in warmer temperatures, providing more nutrients to the nails and supporting their growth.
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Nail growth and nutrition
The growth rate of nails varies from person to person, depending on various factors such as age, genetics, and environment. On average, a healthy nail grows about 3.47 millimetres per month or about 0.1 millimetres per day. The nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster, possibly due to increased usage, which may lead to more frequent injuries or traumas. As a result, the body sends more blood and nutrients to support the healing process, promoting nail growth.
Age is a significant factor influencing nail growth. As individuals grow older, the growth rate of nails typically slows down. Hormonal changes throughout life, such as puberty and pregnancy, can also affect nail growth. For example, nail growth may peak during puberty and accelerate during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations. Conversely, conditions like onychomycosis, a fungal infection common in older adults, can hinder nail growth and strength.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in nail health and growth. Here are some key nutrients to consider:
- Biotin: A deficiency in biotin is rare, but consuming it through supplements or foods can strengthen brittle nails and promote growth.
- Vitamin B12 and Folate (Vitamin B9): These B vitamins are essential for nail health. Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell development and iron absorption, while folate contributes to new cell development. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to nail pigmentation changes and brittleness.
- Magnesium: Adequate magnesium intake is crucial for nail health. It aids in protein synthesis and the formation of new nails. Vertical ridges in nails may indicate a magnesium deficiency. Whole grains, dark leafy greens, quinoa, almonds, and black beans are excellent sources of magnesium.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, providing strength and structure to nails. It also enhances iron absorption from plant-based sources. Include citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli in your diet to boost your vitamin C intake.
- Zinc: Zinc is necessary for the healthy growth and division of nail cells. A zinc deficiency can cause white spots on nails and slow their growth. Incorporate zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas into your diet.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids help keep nails moisturized and prevent dryness and brittleness. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources, while plant-based options include chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects nails from free radical damage and improves blood circulation, supporting nail growth. Almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, and avocados are rich sources of vitamin E.
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Nail growth in children
On average, a healthy nail grows about 3.47 millimetres per month or about one-tenth of a millimetre a day. Toenails tend to grow slower, at an average of 1.62 millimetres per month. However, the rate of nail growth varies across individuals and is influenced by factors such as age, gender, genetics, environment, behaviour, and health conditions. For instance, the nails on the dominant hand typically grow faster, and nail growth is generally faster during the summer and slower in colder environments.
- Thumb-sucking: Thumb-sucking is a common habit among young children, with 31% of children still sucking their thumbs at more than one year of age. This habit can induce maceration and irritation, leading to contact dermatitis of the periungual tissue, cuticle damage, and paronychia. It may also cause Beau's lines, which are longitudinal furrows across the nail plate associated with nail matrix trauma.
- Nail Disorders: Children may experience various nail disorders, such as leukonychia, which causes milky white discolouration on the nail plate due to the presence of parakeratotic cells. Punctate leukonychia appears as small pits or depressions in the nail surface and is more common in children's fingernails. Transverse leukonychia, on the other hand, is rare in children and usually affects the first toenails. It results from trauma to the thick nail plate, causing defective keratinization and the appearance of white bands that move with nail growth.
- Longitudinal Melanonychia: This condition presents as a brown-black pigmented band on the nail plate due to melanin activation or proliferation. In children, the primary cause is often nail matrix nevi, and it may be present at birth or develop between the ages of 2 and 4. While nail melanoma is extremely rare in children, rapid changes in nail growth and colour may indicate the need for medical attention.
- Infections and Warts: Nail infections can be caused by fungi, resulting in hardened, thickened nails with yellow discolouration. Bacterial infections may cause redness, pain, swelling, and drainage in the affected toe. Warts can also affect nail shape and cause discomfort. It is important to seek appropriate treatment options for persistent or painful warts.
- Dark Spots and Streaks: Dark spots or streaks on nails are generally harmless, especially in individuals with darker skin tones. However, it is essential to consult a doctor if your child develops dark spots on their nails to rule out any potential concerns.
- Nail Pitting: Small divots or depressions in the nail, known as nail pitting, can be caused by inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis or alopecia areata.
- Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially on the big toe. They occur when the corner of the nail curves downward into the skin, causing pain and sometimes infection. Improper nail trimming or wearing shoes that are too small can contribute to this condition. Soaking the affected toe in warm water and ensuring properly fitted shoes can help prevent and treat ingrown toenails.
Maintaining nail hygiene, regular trimming, and moisturising are essential for nail health in children. Additionally, encouraging children to avoid nail-biting and picking can help prevent infections and maintain healthy nail growth.
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How to strengthen nails
On average, a healthy nail grows about 3.47 millimetres per month or about 0.1 millimetres a day. Several factors influence the growth rate, including age, genetics, environment, behaviour, and health conditions. For instance, nails tend to grow faster on your dominant hand due to more frequent use, and nail growth is typically faster during the summer.
Take Biotin Supplements: Biotin, also known as vitamin H and vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps strengthen nails and hair and supports the nervous system. It is not stored in the body, so daily consumption is necessary. Check with your healthcare provider before taking supplements, especially if you have a chronic condition or are on medication.
Nail Hardeners and Strengtheners: Nail hardeners can help reduce nail breakage, but prolonged use is not recommended as they can break down the nail over time. Look for those containing jojoba oil, almond oil, or vitamin B. Avoid products with formaldehyde or formalin.
Nutrition and Hydration: A nutrient-dense diet high in protein can promote nail health. Ensure you are consuming enough calories and staying hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
Grooming and Protection: Keep your nails clean and groomed by regularly trimming them with a clean pair of clippers. Wear gloves when doing chores, especially when washing dishes, to protect your nails from excessive water exposure and harsh chemicals.
Medical Advice: If your nails remain weak despite trying various remedies, consult a doctor or healthcare professional. Weak or brittle nails may be caused by underlying conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic illnesses. They can advise on prescription-strength treatments or address any root causes.
Remember, everyone's nails grow and respond to treatments differently, so finding what works best for you may involve some trial and error.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, fingernails grow about 0.1 to 0.15 millimetres per day, while toenails grow at a slower rate of about 0.4 millimetres per week.
The growth rate of nails depends on several factors, including age, genetics, overall health, nutrition, and season.
No, nails do not continue to grow after death. The skin dehydrates and tightens, giving the appearance of nail and hair growth.
No, the nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster. This is because the dominant hand is used more often and is more prone to trauma, which increases nail growth as the body sends more blood and nutrients to the area.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a nutritious diet can help promote nail growth. Additionally, keeping your nails clean and trimmed is essential for overall nail health.
