Noah Sinclair
While there is no scientifically proven method to make your nails grow faster, there are several ways to increase their overall health and prevent them from breaking, allowing them to grow longer over time. Fingernails are made of a hard protein called keratin, so it's important to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins to support nail health. In addition to a healthy diet, regular nail grooming and hydration are key to nail growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average growth rate | 3.47 mm per month or 0.1 mm per day |
| Factors affecting growth rate | The hand the nail is on, age, hormone levels, overall health, etc. |
| Home remedies | Using nail growth treatments, biotin supplements, protein supplements, moisturising with oils, maintaining good nail hygiene, etc. |
| Nutrition | Consuming cysteine, folate, biotin, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Consume nail-strengthening vitamins and minerals
Consuming the right vitamins and minerals is crucial for helping your body function properly, from your brain to your fingernails and toenails. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can contribute to healthier and faster nail growth.
Firstly, ensure you are consuming enough protein. Nails are made of a hard protein called keratin, so eating enough protein is important for nail health. Include foods like eggs, lean meats, fish, beans, nuts, and leafy greens in your diet to provide essential nutrients for your nails.
Secondly, focus on vitamins and minerals that support nail health. Biotin, a B-complex vitamin, is widely recommended for nail growth. It aids in the body's processing of glucose, fats, and proteins, and promotes healthy cell growth. Those with biotin deficiencies often experience brittle nails. Clinical trials have shown that biotin supplements lead to an improvement in nail thickness and hardness.
Iron is another important mineral for nail health. It provides your cells with adequate oxygen, which is necessary for healthy nails. Iron is best absorbed from meat and other animal foods but can also be found in dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C may help increase iron absorption, and vitamin C is also great for nail health as it helps strengthen tissues.
Vitamin E is also beneficial for nail health, as it helps with moisture retention, preventing nails from becoming dry and brittle. Foods high in vitamin E include nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, and vegetable oils.
In addition to these specific vitamins and minerals, aim to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, ensuring you get adequate omega-3 fatty acids. While supplements are available, it is generally recommended to address potential deficiencies through diet first, as whole foods provide a mix of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients that benefit both nail and overall health.
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Moisturise with oils
While there is no scientifically proven method for making nails grow faster, taking good care of your nails through proper nutrition and grooming techniques can help them grow strong and long over time.
One of the most important things you can do to promote nail growth is to keep your nails moisturised. This is because dry nails are more prone to breakage and chipping, which can hinder the growth process.
Using cuticle oil is a great way to keep your nails and the surrounding skin moisturised. Cuticle oils are usually made with vegetable oils and sometimes contain vitamins and citric acid. They help to improve the health and appearance of your nails, as well as protect your nail polish. You can either dab your cuticles with a cotton ball soaked in cuticle oil or brush the oil directly onto your cuticles and nails. Massage the oil into your nails and cuticles for a few minutes to promote absorption. Look for cuticle oils that are on the thinner side, as these will absorb better. Some cuticle oils, like Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream and Opi Avoplex Nail & Cuticle Replenishing Oil, also contain Vitamin E, which is great for nourishing your nails.
If you don't have any cuticle oil on hand, you can also use other nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil. Simply massage these oils into your nails and cuticles to promote growth and strengthen your nails.
In addition to using cuticle oil or other nourishing oils, you can also use moisturising ointments, creams, or lotions to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated. These products contain significant amounts of water, which can help to increase the moisture content of your nails.
By keeping your nails moisturised, you can help prevent breakage and promote healthy nail growth.
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Avoid harsh chemicals
While there are no scientifically proven methods to make your nails grow faster, there are ways to increase their overall health and prevent breakage, allowing them to grow longer over time. One way to do this is by avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage your nails and cuticles.
Nail polish and nail polish removers often contain harsh chemicals that can be damaging to your nails. Acetone, for example, is a common ingredient in nail polish removers that can cause headaches, dizziness, and irritated eyes, skin, and throat. Butyl acetate, found in nail polish and nail polish removers, can also cause similar irritation. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), found in nail polish, has been linked to nausea and irritated eyes, skin, nose, mouth, and throat. Long-term exposure to high concentrations of these chemicals may lead to more serious health effects. Toluene, used as a solvent in nail products, is another chemical to avoid, although its use is being phased out.
Artificial nails and acrylic nails may also contain harmful chemicals. Methyl methacrylate monomer, occasionally found in artificial nail products, has been linked to fingernail damage and deformity, as well as contact dermatitis. Ethyl methacrylate monomer, found in acrylic nails, can also cause similar adverse reactions, such as redness, swelling, and pain in the nails.
To protect your nails, look for alternative nail polishes that are labelled as "five-free," which means they are free from formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. Non-toxic polishes are another option, although the health benefits of these are uncertain. Taking breaks from polish and keeping your nails and cuticles well-moisturized can also help maintain nail health.
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Take care of your cuticles
Cuticles are a layer of clear skin located at the bottom edge of your finger or toe, also known as the nail bed. They protect new nails from bacteria as they grow out from the nail root. Cuticle care is essential for nail health and appearance.
Firstly, it is important to note that cutting cuticles is not recommended by experts. The Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advise against cutting cuticles at home or in nail salons. This is because cutting the cuticle can make it harder and more likely to fracture. It also increases the risk of infection as it is easier for bacteria and germs to enter. Instead, gently push back the cuticle with a wooden orange stick and only trim loose skin and hangnails.
To care for your cuticles, it is important to keep them soft and moisturized. You can soak your hands or feet in soapy, warm water for around 10 minutes every few days to help soften the cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil, which helps to hydrate the cuticle and nail bed, preventing dryness and cracking. You can also use nourishing oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil. Moisturize your hands and nails with lotion, ensuring you rub it into your fingernails, especially at the base where the cuticles are located.
Protect your cuticles from harsh chemicals and frequent dishwashing, which can cause dryness. Wear gloves when washing dishes or clothes, and use acetone-free nail polish remover to avoid drying out your nails and cuticles.
Additionally, consider taking biotin supplements to support nail health and strength. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps boost the strength of nails, and several studies suggest that taking a biotin supplement daily can improve nail firmness and thickness.
By following these steps, you can effectively care for your cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth and enhancing the appearance of your nails.
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Keep nails clean and dry
Keeping your nails clean and dry is essential for maintaining good nail hygiene and preventing nail infections. Here are some tips to help you keep your nails in top condition:
Keep Nails Clean
- Pay attention to your nails when washing your hands. Use antibacterial soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to effectively reduce bacteria on your fingertips and nails.
- Consider using a nail brush to clean under your nails, especially if your hands are visibly soiled. Remember to wash and air-dry the nail brush after each use to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
- If you wear nail gels, polish, or acrylics, be mindful of the chemicals in these products. Nails can become brittle due to exposure to harsh chemicals like acetone in nail polish removers.
Keep Nails Dry
- After washing your hands, dry your nails thoroughly. This minimizes the risk of nail infections and prevents water from softening your nails too much.
- If you get a hangnail, trim it as soon as possible to maintain dry and healthy nails.
- For toenails, ensure you scrub and dry your toes daily. Wash them with soap and water, and use a loofah, sponge, or washcloth to clean around the toenails.
- If you don't shower daily, consider a foot soak in lukewarm water and soap to dislodge dirt from under your toenails. Afterward, rinse and dry your feet thoroughly.
While keeping your nails clean and dry is essential, it's also important to note that regular nail grooming, a balanced diet, and proper nutrition are key factors in achieving healthy and strong nails.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to help your nails grow faster, including maintaining a healthy diet with calcium, protein, and vitamins B7 and B9. You can also rub your nails with lemon juice, apply coconut oil, olive oil, or garlic oil to your nails, and avoid biting your nails.
Foods that are rich in calcium and protein can help nails grow, including dairy products, lean meats, eggs, beans, peas, nuts, and seeds. Spinach and other leafy greens are also beneficial as they are packed with folic acid and vitamin B9.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, can help make nails stronger and less susceptible to damage or breakage, which may help them grow longer over time. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
