Caleb Foster
While there is no scientifically proven method for making nails grow faster, there are several oral and topical treatments that may help strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking, which will help them grow longer over time. Oral treatments include taking a daily biotin supplement, which can be found at most pharmacies and health food stores, and increasing your protein intake through diet or supplements. Topical treatments include using cuticle oil and moisturizers to keep nails healthy and flexible, and avoiding harsh chemicals and detergents that can dry out your nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Diet | Include protein, biotin, omega-3s, iron, vitamins, and minerals in your diet. |
| Biotin | Take a daily biotin supplement to strengthen nails and make them less likely to split or break. |
| Keratin | Take a keratin supplement or apply it topically as an oil to build strength and resiliency. |
| Calcium | Some over-the-counter (OTC) nail supplements contain calcium, which may strengthen nails. |
| Collagen | Collagen supplements can improve skin, hair, and nail health. |
| Moisturizing | Moisturize hands and nails regularly to prevent dryness and cracking, which can expose nails to infections. |
| Cuticle Oil | Use cuticle oil to avoid breakage and keep nails healthy and flexible. |
| Nail Grooming | Keep nails clean, dry, and trimmed. File nails into a rounded or squared shape to prevent snagging and breaking. |
| Nail Biting | Avoid nail biting as it can affect nail growth. |
| Nail Polish | Use a non-acetone nail polish remover and avoid glue-on nails and toxic polishes. Apply a clear or protective layer of nail polish. |
| Chemicals | Protect nails from harsh household cleaners and chemicals, which can dry out and destroy nails. |
| Sun Exposure | Get plenty of sun to help your body create the vitamin D needed for nail growth. |
| Climate | Nails tend to grow faster in warmer climates. |
| Medical Conditions | Monitor nails closely if you have diabetes or other circulatory issues, as these can affect nail growth. |
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What You'll Learn
Take biotin supplements
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that supports your metabolism and helps keep your skin, nails, and hair healthy. While biotin supplements are often marketed for nail growth, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. However, some people with brittle nails may benefit from extra biotin.
Several human studies suggest that taking a biotin supplement daily may help strengthen nails and increase nail plate thickness. One study from Switzerland showed a 25% increase in nail plate thickness in patients with brittle nails who took biotin supplements. Additionally, biotin can aid in the body's processing of glucose, fats, and proteins, which are essential for nail health.
It is important to note that most people get adequate biotin through their diet. Biotin is found in many foods, including fish, seeds, eggs, and lean meats. Adult daily multivitamins and prenatal vitamins typically contain 100% of the recommended daily value of biotin. However, if you are concerned about a biotin deficiency or want to boost your intake, you can consider taking biotin supplements.
When taking biotin supplements, it is crucial to follow the recommended dosage on the package. While biotin is considered safe for daily consumption and is not known to be toxic, taking more than the suggested amount may lead to side effects. Some people have experienced symptoms like stomach aches and insomnia when taking biotin supplements. Additionally, biotin can interfere with the accuracy of certain lab tests, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking biotin regularly.
Before starting any supplement, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual needs and recommend the appropriate course of action. While biotin supplements may help strengthen nails, maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet, proper nail care, and staying hydrated are also crucial for optimal nail health and growth.
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Eat protein-rich foods
Eating protein-rich foods is essential for nail growth and health. Nails are made of a hard protein called keratin, so it makes sense that consuming a sufficient amount of protein will support nail strength and growth.
When it comes to protein-rich foods, you have a variety of options. If you're a meat-lover, opt for lean meats like chicken and turkey. These provide collagen, which is crucial for nail health. Fish is another excellent source of protein and offers essential nutrients for nail health. For those who prefer plant-based sources of protein, beans, legumes, tofu, nuts, and even certain vegetables can provide a substantial amount of protein. Dairy products like Greek yogurt, cheese, and milk are also good options, offering both protein and calcium, which may help your nails grow strong.
In addition to protein, there are other nutrients that play a vital role in nail health. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is often found in hair, skin, and nail vitamins. It aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids that are essential for nail growth. You can find biotin in egg yolks, dairy products, salmon, nuts, and even some vegetables like sweet potatoes and cauliflower. Vitamin C is another crucial nutrient, as it is necessary for the production of collagen, which gives strength and structure to your nails. Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and green vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin C.
While focusing on protein-rich foods is essential, it's also important to maintain a well-balanced diet overall. Include fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and adequate carbohydrates in your meals. Remember, a varied and nutritious diet will not only promote nail health but also benefit your overall health and well-being.
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Protect nails from chemicals
Protecting your nails from chemicals is essential for maintaining nail health and hygiene. While the nail plate acts as a protective barrier, preventing most chemicals from penetrating beyond the surface or upper layers, certain chemicals and practices can still damage your nails. Here are some tips to protect your nails from chemical exposure and potential harm:
Wear Protective Gear:
If you work in a nail salon or frequently do your nails at home, it's important to wear the proper protective gear. This includes long-sleeved shirts and pants or skirts that cover your lap to protect your skin and nails from dust and chemical spills. Always wear disposable gloves when handling nail products, such as nitrile gloves for chemicals and latex or vinyl gloves for acetone. Additionally, consider wearing goggles to protect your eyes from any splashes or dust.
Use Respirators:
In some cases, you may need to use a respirator to protect yourself from breathing in hazardous gases and vapors, such as formaldehyde, or particulates like dust. N95 filtering facepiece respirators, for example, protect against dust, viruses, and germs but not vapors or gases. Ensure that your respirator is properly selected, fitted, and used in accordance with safety guidelines.
Be Mindful of UV Exposure:
The curing process of gel polish involves using ultraviolet (UV) light, which is known to cause cellular damage, aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. If possible, opt for alternative lamps that emit LED light, but be aware that they may still emit some UV light. Additionally, always apply sunscreen to your hands and fingers at least 20 minutes before UV treatment or wear fingerless gloves to minimize direct UV exposure to your skin.
Avoid Harsh Removal Processes:
The removal process of gel or acrylic nails can be particularly damaging to your natural nails. Soaking nails in acetone, aggressive buffing, scraping, and peeling can severely weaken and dry out your nails, making them brittle. Instead, opt for gentler alternatives, such as non-damaging press-on nails or long-wearing nail polish formulas that don't require harsh removal methods. Always remind your nail technician to avoid aggressive buffing and forceful scraping of the nail plate.
Limit Water Exposure:
Prolonged exposure to water can lead to nail breakage, peeling, and splitting. Protect your nails by wearing gloves when washing dishes or swimming. Additionally, consider using biotin supplements, as recommended by dermatologist Dana Stern, to support nail growth and strength.
Choose Nail Polishes Carefully:
Different types of nail polishes have varying effects on nail health due to the chemicals they contain. Opt for formulas that are labelled as ""7-free" or "non-toxic," which exclude many harsh chemicals found in traditional nail polishes. Using a base coat can also add an extra layer of protection for your nails. However, unless you're using a strengthening base coat, its primary purpose is to improve polish adherence rather than enhance nail health.
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Moisturise hands and nails
Moisturising your hands and nails is an important step in achieving faster-growing nails. Dry skin can cause nails to become dry, and very dry skin can even crack, exposing the nails to fungal and bacterial infections. Therefore, it is important to moisturise your hands and nails, especially during the winter months, and to apply lotion after washing your hands.
You can also use cuticle oil to moisturise your nails and promote nail growth. Cuticle oil helps to hydrate the cuticle and the nail bed, preventing breakage and keeping nails healthy and flexible. If you don't have cuticle oil, you can use nourishing oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil to massage your nails and cuticles.
It is also recommended to wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning to prevent water and cleaning products from drying out your nails and causing them to become brittle. Additionally, drinking enough water is important for nail health, as it helps nails retain moisture and stay strong.
Applying a moisturising cream or hand balm to your nails daily will also help to keep them moisturised. Look for products that contain urea, phospholipids, or lactic acid to prevent cracking.
Overall, maintaining well-moisturised hands and nails is key to supporting nail growth and preventing breakage.
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Avoid nail biting
While there is no scientifically proven method for making nails grow faster, good nutrition and nail care can help strengthen your nails, making them less prone to breakage and supporting their overall health.
Nail biting can damage your fingers and nails and even lead to infection. It can also make the skin around your nails sore and damage the tissue that makes nails grow, resulting in abnormal-looking nails. To avoid nail biting, you can try the following:
- Keep your nails short and well-maintained. Regular nail grooming can help boost nail strength and reduce breakage.
- Moisturize your hands and nails with lotion, making sure to rub it into your fingernails and cuticles. Dry nails are more prone to breakage, and moisturizing can help keep your nails healthy and flexible.
- Apply cuticle oil regularly to avoid breakage and picking. Cuticle oil helps to hydrate the cuticle and nail bed, and promotes nail growth.
- If you have the urge to bite your nails, try applying cuticle balm or carrying a cuticle cutter to address any hangnails or nail injuries.
- Paint your nails or apply bitter nail polish. Some people find that having painted nails discourages them from biting their nails, as they do not want to ruin the polish.
- Try alternative habits such as chewing gum, sucking on hard candy, or knitting when you feel the urge to bite your nails.
- Identify and address any triggers that may be causing you to bite your nails. Nail biting falls under a list of behaviours known as body-focused repetitive disorders (BFRDs), which are triggered by sensory, cognitive, motor, or setting cues.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no scientifically proven method for making nails grow faster than the average rate of 3.47-3.5 millimeters per month. However, maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of protein, vitamins, minerals, and biotin can help strengthen your nails and prevent breakage, allowing them to grow longer over time.
A well-balanced diet that includes whole fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean protein sources such as eggs, fish, and nuts can contribute to healthier nail growth.
Oral supplements such as biotin and keratin have been shown to strengthen nails and reduce breakage. While they may not directly increase nail growth rate, they can improve overall nail health, making it easier for your nails to grow longer and stronger.
In addition to oral supplements and a healthy diet, you can:
- Keep your nails moisturized and protected with cuticle oil or lotion.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and detergents that can dry out your nails.
- Wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning to minimize exposure to water and cleaning products.
- File your nails regularly into a rounded or oval shape to prevent snagging and breaking.
- Avoid biting your nails, as this can hinder their growth.
