Noah Sinclair
Nails are made from keratin, the same protein that makes up our skin and hair. Fingernails and toenails protect the soft tissue beneath them and can be damaged or lost due to trauma, infection, or other reasons. Toenails, in particular, are susceptible to fungal infections as fungi thrive in warm, wet environments, and shoes and socks provide the perfect breeding ground. Fortunately, nails are resilient and can grow back after being damaged or detached, although this can take anywhere from 4 to 18 months, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors such as age and overall health.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Regrowth Time | Fingernails can take 3-6 months to grow back, while toenails can take up to 18 months |
| Nail Trauma | Injuries to the nail bed and matrix can cause slower regrowth and defects in the nail |
| Preventing Infection | Keep the wound dry and covered with a daily bandage change and antibiotic ointment |
| Supplements | Biotin supplements promote cell growth and help metabolize protein-building amino acids |
| Fungal Infections | Treat early with oral antifungal medication or laser treatment to prevent losing the nail |
| Nail Appearance | Topical steroids and medications for psoriasis may improve the appearance of damaged nails |
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What You'll Learn
- Treat fungal nail infections early to prevent losing your toenail
- Take biotin supplements to promote cell growth and help metabolise protein-building amino acids
- Keep the wound dry and covered to prevent infection
- Take medications to treat psoriasis and improve nail appearance
- Prevent nail injuries by keeping your hands moisturised and using proper protection
Treat fungal nail infections early to prevent losing your toenail
Toenails are made from keratin, a protein that also makes up your skin and hair. They protect the soft tissue beneath them and keep the tips of your toes safe. However, due to trauma, infection, or other scenarios, you might lose a toenail. Toenails grow more slowly than fingernails, usually taking anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to regrow.
Fungal nail infections are a common cause of toenail loss. Fungi can get between the toenail and the nail bed through a crack or cut in your toenail. The fungi will cause the toenail to spread across that bit of tissue, causing your toenail to turn yellow and crumble. The nail plate is shiny and transparent, but a few yellow or white spots may appear, and the nail may lose its gloss.
Fungal nail infections are highly contagious and can be picked up from other people in warm, dark, and moist areas like gym locker rooms and pools. They can also spread to your nails from your foot if you have Athlete's Foot. Toenail fungus is also contagious and can transfer to your nail after visiting a nail salon or if you walk barefoot in a locker room.
If a fungal nail infection goes untreated, you risk losing your toenail. Therefore, it is important to treat the infection early. Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription products can treat nail fungus, but it can take 12 to 18 months for the fungus to grow out. Oral antifungal medication, such as Terbinafine, can also be used to treat severe fungal nail infections. However, it can take a long time to work and may have side effects, so you need to be monitored closely by a doctor. Laser treatments can provide a temporary increase in clear nail but are not a cure and are not typically used as first-line treatments.
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Take biotin supplements to promote cell growth and help metabolise protein-building amino acids
Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that supports the body in several ways. It helps convert food into energy, metabolises fats, and breaks down protein into amino acids, which are then used to build muscle and repair tissues.
Consuming adequate amounts of biotin is crucial for nail health. Biotin helps produce natural oils that keep nails healthy. Several studies have found that biotin supplementation improved hair and nail growth in people with underlying conditions that cause weak nails, such as brittle nail syndrome.
However, it is important to note that if you do not have a biotin deficiency or an underlying condition, taking extra biotin is unlikely to improve nail health. Most adults can easily get their recommended daily amount of biotin (30 micrograms) through their diet. Biotin is found in foods such as eggs, milk, and bananas.
If you are considering taking biotin supplements, it is important to speak with your doctor first, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as your recommended daily intake may be higher. Additionally, biotin supplements can interfere with certain lab tests, so be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking them.
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Keep the wound dry and covered to prevent infection
Keeping the wound dry and covered is crucial to preventing infection and ensuring proper nail regrowth. The skin underneath the nail is sensitive and susceptible to infection. Therefore, it is essential to keep the wound clean and dry.
Clean the nail bed daily with a soapy washcloth and water to remove any foreign material. Ensure that you gently dry the area afterward, as fungi thrive in warm, wet environments. Cover the wound with a bandage or an appropriate dressing to protect the nail bed. Change the bandage daily to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection.
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the damaged nail to further reduce the risk of infection. If possible, keep the nail in place until it is ready to fall off, as this provides extra protection to the nail bed. Keeping the wound dry and covered is essential to creating the optimal environment for nail regrowth and preventing potential complications.
Additionally, be mindful of the environments you expose your wound to, especially when it is uncovered during bandage changes. Fungi that cause nail infections are highly contagious and can be picked up from various sources, such as gym equipment, pools, or other individuals. Maintaining good hygiene practices and being cautious about your surroundings will help reduce the chances of infection and promote healthy nail regrowth.
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Take medications to treat psoriasis and improve nail appearance
If you have nail psoriasis, medications such as corticosteroids and biologics can be used to treat the condition and improve the appearance of your nails. Topical steroids may also be used to improve nail appearance. These medications can help to speed up the regrowth process, which can take up to 6 months or longer.
It's important to consult a doctor or dermatologist for advice and to obtain a proper diagnosis before taking any medication. They will be able to assess the severity of your nail psoriasis and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you.
In addition to medication, there are other ways to promote nail health and support the regrowth process. Biotin supplements, for example, can promote cell growth and help your body metabolize protein-building amino acids, contributing to faster nail growth. Keeping your nails moisturized and protecting them from strong chemicals or constant wetness can also help prevent damage and support healthy nail growth.
While medications can help treat nail psoriasis and improve nail appearance, it's important to manage your expectations. Nail growth can vary depending on various factors, including age, climate, overall health, and any underlying conditions. Remember that nails grow slowly, and it may take several months to see significant improvements in the appearance of your nails.
If you are experiencing nail psoriasis, it's important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan. Follow your doctor's instructions and make any necessary lifestyle changes to support the health of your nails. With time and dedication, you can expect to see improvements in the appearance and health of your nails.
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Prevent nail injuries by keeping your hands moisturised and using proper protection
Keeping your hands moisturised is a simple yet effective way to prevent nail injuries. Nails are susceptible to damage and injury when exposed to strong chemicals or constantly wet environments. Therefore, it is essential to moisturise your hands regularly, especially if you work with chemicals or wet materials. This helps to maintain nail health and reduce the risk of nail breakage or brittleness.
Additionally, using proper protection for your nails is crucial in preventing injuries. If you work with your hands or handle chemicals, wear protective gloves to shield your nails from harsh substances. Gloves act as a barrier, protecting your nails from direct contact with potential irritants or harmful agents. This is particularly important if you work in industries such as cleaning, healthcare, or beauty, where exposure to chemicals and moisture is common.
For those who engage in manual labour or activities that may result in nail trauma, consider investing in protective gear specifically designed for hand and nail safety. This could include specialised gloves or finger guards that provide extra reinforcement and impact resistance. These protective measures are essential in preventing nail injuries caused by blunt force or accidents involving heavy objects.
In addition to moisturising and protection, it is beneficial to practice good hand and nail hygiene. Keep your nails trimmed and shaped appropriately for your daily activities. Avoid biting your nails or cuticles, as this can weaken the nail structure and lead to tears or breakage. Maintaining proper nail length and shape reduces the risk of accidental scratching or catching, which could result in nail injuries.
By combining regular moisturising, utilising proper protection, and adopting good nail hygiene practices, you can effectively prevent nail injuries and promote overall nail health. These simple measures will help keep your nails strong, resilient, and less prone to damage, supporting their growth and appearance.
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