Noah Sinclair
Fingernails and toenails are made of protein and fat and grow at a rate of 0.13 inches per month. Toenails grow more slowly than fingernails. Nails are produced by the nail matrix cells that reside in the moon-shaped whitish area (lunula) at the base of the nail. If the nail matrix is not damaged, the nail will typically regrow. However, if the nail matrix is damaged, the growing nail plate will contain a defect, and the nail may not grow back. Minor damage will produce minor defects in the nail, while more significant damage can result in a permanently deformed nail.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average monthly nail growth | 0.13 inches |
| Average time for complete nail regrowth | 3-6 months |
| Factors that can slow down nail growth | Peripheral artery disease, eczema, nail psoriasis, chemotherapy, medications, injuries, and certain health conditions |
| First aid for a broken nail | Smoothing the nail with a nail file, trimming and filing to even out the shape, using nail glue to preserve the nail, or patching with a tea bag and clear nail polish |
| Warning signs requiring medical attention | Bleeding, infection, swelling, increasing pain, pus, discoloration, or detachment of the entire nail |
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What You'll Learn
File the nail to its original shape
When a nail breaks, it often results in a sharp and jagged edge. To prevent further damage and ease the inconvenience, it is recommended to file the nail to smoothen the edge. Filing the nail also helps in restoring its original shape, making it match the rest of your nails.
Sarah Gibson Tuttle, a nail expert, advises that when filing a broken nail, you should "move in one single direction" to reshape the nail. The goal is to file it back to its original form, making it slightly shorter than the other nails. This process will help you maintain uniformity and prevent further breakage.
It is important to note that filing should be done carefully, especially if the break is close to the nail bed. If the nail has split down the middle or is severely damaged, it may be best to trim it and then file it to the desired shape. This ensures that the nail remains strong and does not continue to split or break.
If you wish to retain the length of your nail, you can use nail glue as a temporary solution until you can visit a nail technician for a more durable fix. However, if the nail has separated from the nail bed, it will take approximately six months to regrow. During this time, proper nail care, including a well-rounded diet and good hygiene, can promote stronger and healthier nail growth.
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Use nail glue to hold it together
Using nail glue is a great way to hold broken nails together and preserve them until you can get an appointment with a nail technician for a more long-lasting fix. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use nail glue to hold your broken nail together:
Prepare the Nail
Start by smoothing any sharp or jagged edges of the broken nail with a nail file. If the nail has a more extended split, you may need to trim it first. Clip your nail just below the split, and then use the nail file to even out the shape. This step is crucial to ensure the broken nail doesn't cause further damage or injury.
Apply Nail Glue
Apply a small amount of nail glue to the broken area of the nail. You can use nail glue or super glue for this step. Spread the glue evenly across the broken surface, ensuring complete coverage. You can use a toothpick to smooth out the glue and ensure it reaches all the crevices.
Reattach the Broken Piece
If the broken piece of the nail is still intact and available, you can reattach it. Carefully press the broken piece into place, holding it firmly for at least 10 seconds to a minute to allow the glue to dry. This step will ensure that the broken piece is secured back in place.
Remove Excess Glue
Once the glue is dry, gently remove any excess glue using a small cotton swab or a gentle buffing stone. Be careful not to over-buff, as you don't want to accidentally remove the glue holding the nail together. The goal is to smooth out any bumps or ridges that may have formed due to the glue application.
Seal and Protect
After removing excess glue, apply a thin coat of nail polish to seal and protect the repaired area. You can use a clear coat or a coloured polish to match your other nails. This step will help hold the repaired nail together and make it less noticeable.
Aftercare
The nail glue fix is a temporary solution, typically lasting about one to two weeks. During this time, your nail will have the strength to grow out, and you can simply trim and file it as it regrows. Nails generally grow at a rate of about 0.13 inches per month, so it may take three to six months for a completely regrown nail.
It is important to note that if there is any sign of infection, swelling, increasing pain, or pus, you should consult a physician immediately. Additionally, if there is significant damage to the nail bed, matrix, or surrounding tissues, professional medical attention may be required to assess and repair the area.
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Treat any infections
If you notice signs of an infection, such as swelling, increasing pain, or pus, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can determine if there is any damage to the nail bed or underlying structures and provide appropriate treatment. In the case of a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection. Minor procedures, such as draining pus, may also be necessary. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions and complete the entire course of antibiotics to prevent the infection from returning.
For mild cases of nail infections, home remedies can be effective. Soaking the infected area in warm water several times a day can help drain pus and promote healing. However, if symptoms persist or worsen after a day or two of home treatment, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
Fungal nail infections, caused by fungi such as candida, can also occur. These infections cause the nail to become thick, discoloured, and brittle. Treatment for fungal nail infections may involve using antifungal nail medicine or taking antifungal tablets prescribed by a doctor. It is important to continue the treatment as directed until the infection clears up.
Additionally, maintaining good nail hygiene is crucial to prevent infections. This includes avoiding biting or chewing on nails, refraining from cutting cuticles, and maintaining short, well-trimmed nails. Washing hands regularly and keeping nails clean can also help prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Overall, seeking timely medical attention and following recommended treatments are essential for treating nail infections effectively.
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Maintain a well-rounded diet
Maintaining a well-rounded diet is essential for supporting nail growth and overall nail health. Here are some dietary recommendations to help you grow your broken nails faster:
Firstly, ensure you are consuming enough protein, as nails are made of a fibrous protein called keratin. Include protein-rich foods such as organic chicken, eggs, lean red meat, and fish in your diet. If you follow a plant-based diet, good sources of protein include tofu, lentils, quinoa, soya, nuts, and seeds. Eggs, in particular, are rich in vitamin D, B12, biotin, and protein, making them an excellent choice for nail growth. Biotin helps with nail thickness, and vitamin D deficiency can lead to dry and brittle nails.
In addition to protein, focus on incorporating healthy fats into your meals. Salmon, for example, is a great source of healthy fats and fatty acids, which help maintain cell growth and promote healthy nails. Other fatty fish like salmon that contain omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for nail health. If you prefer plant-based sources, avocados, nuts, and seeds are excellent choices. These foods also supply the body with magnesium, which is essential for nail health.
Furthermore, pay attention to your intake of B vitamins, including biotin, folate, vitamin B12, and B6. These vitamins are vital for cell function and promote healthy nail growth. You can find these vitamins in wholegrains, egg yolks, sweet potatoes, nuts, and spinach. Lentils and beans are also excellent sources of biotin and help keep nails strong and healthy.
Lastly, hydration is critical for nail health. Water aids in delivering nutrients and oxygen to the cells, so be sure to drink water or other hydrating liquids throughout the day. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, lettuce, celery, tomatoes, apples, and watermelon in your diet to stay properly hydrated.
By following these dietary recommendations, you can support the growth of your broken nails and improve their overall health and strength.
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Use coconut oil to strengthen nails
Coconut oil is a great way to strengthen nails, especially if you have brittle or cracked nails. Nails are made of protein and fat, and coconut oil is packed with moisturising fatty acids, which help to keep your nails hydrated and strong.
To use coconut oil to strengthen your nails, start by applying a small amount of coconut oil to your nails, massaging it into the nail bed and cuticles. You can do this once or twice a day. Leave the oil to penetrate for at least 30 minutes, but the longer you can leave it, the better. Before bed is a good time to apply the oil, as you can leave it on overnight without disturbing your daily routine.
Coconut oil is also a natural anti-fungal agent, so it can help treat toenails that have turned yellow due to a fungal infection. It can also help to prevent and soothe hangnails, which are often caused by biting your nails, exposure to water, or harsh chemicals in soaps and sanitisers.
Coconut oil is generally non-allergenic, but it can cause acne flare-ups by clogging pores, so it is not recommended for use on the face by people with acne-prone skin.
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Frequently asked questions
If your nail has broken, it's best to smooth it with a nail file to avoid any sharp edges. If it's a small split, a quick nail filing session will make your nails look as good as new. If the split is more extended, you may need to trim it and then file it to even out the shape.
You can repair a broken nail by using the "teabag method". The thin, porous material of a teabag makes it a seamless patch as it adheres nicely to the nails. You can also use nail glue to repair a broken nail.
Nails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches per month, and it can take around 3-6 months for a fingernail to grow back completely. Toenails grow more slowly, usually close to half the rate of fingernails.
