Caleb Foster
There are many reasons why someone might want their nails to grow faster, from fighting the urge to bite them to breaking a nail so short that it hurts. While there is no proven way to make nails grow faster, there are several products and methods that can help strengthen nails and prevent them from breaking, giving them the best chance of healthy growth. These include maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, practising good nail hygiene, and taking supplements such as biotin.
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What You'll Learn
There are no products that will make your nails grow faster
While there are many products that claim to make your nails grow faster, there is no scientific evidence to support these assertions. Nails are made of a protein called keratin, which is already dead tissue by the time it is long enough to paint, so any product applied to the surface will have no impact on its growth.
Some people believe that certain behaviours can lead to faster nail growth. For example, the idea that frequent nail clipping makes your nails grow faster, or that people who exercise their fingers a lot, such as pianists, have quicker-growing nails due to increased blood flow to the fingertips. However, these are just theories, and there is no scientific proof that any of these behaviours will make your nails grow faster.
While there are no products that will make your nails grow faster, there are some remedies and lifestyle changes that can strengthen your nails and help prevent them from breaking. For example, biotin supplements have been shown to strengthen brittle nails, making them less likely to break. A well-balanced diet, including lean sources of protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, can also contribute to strong and healthy nails.
Additionally, good nail hygiene practices can support nail health and help your nails grow. Keeping your nails clean and dry, trimming them regularly, and moisturising your hands and nails can all contribute to healthy nail growth.
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You can take supplements like biotin to strengthen your nails
While there are no quick fixes to make your nails grow faster, you can take supplements to strengthen them and prevent them from breaking. One such supplement is biotin, a B vitamin and essential nutrient that can be found in some foods and supplements. Biotin helps metabolize food, turning it into energy, and is important for maintaining healthy skin, nails, and hair. While there is limited evidence that biotin supplements improve nail health, people with brittle nails and low biotin levels may benefit from taking extra biotin.
Biotin deficiency is rare, as most people get enough biotin through their diet. Biotin-rich foods include organ meats, eggs, salmon, pork, beef, seeds, nuts, and sweet potatoes. However, if you have brittle nails or thinning hair, you may have a biotin deficiency, in which case you should consult your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and advise you on whether you need to increase your biotin intake through diet or supplementation.
It is important to note that taking too much biotin can interfere with the accuracy of certain lab tests. Additionally, keeping your nails clean, dry, and trimmed, moisturizing your hands and nails, and avoiding nail-biting or cutting your nails too short can also help strengthen your nails and prevent breakage.
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Moisturise your nails to prevent them from breaking
Healthy nails are a reflection of your overall health. Nails need hydration, and moisturising them regularly can prevent them from breaking.
Firstly, it is important to note that nails are 1000 times more permeable to water than the skin. This means that everyday activities such as hand washing and doing the dishes can weaken the nail structure and compromise its ability to retain hydration. Therefore, it is recommended to wear gloves when washing dishes and to apply a moisturiser immediately after your nails are exposed to water.
You can use a good quality hand cream or cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated. Look for a nail-specific cream that contains vitamin E, such as Londontown's Kur Restorative Nail Cream, to strengthen your nails and prevent cracking. Glycolic acid is also a good option for dry, rough nails as it helps to break down the bonds of the keratin in nail cells and is a humectant that helps hold onto moisture.
In addition to using products, your diet can also play a role in nail health. To prevent dry and brittle nails, eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, soy, eggs, and seeds. Nails are made of cholesterol, and low levels of cholesterol can compromise the nail's ability to hold onto hydration. Therefore, it is important to eat a nutrient-dense and varied diet and consider taking a multivitamin with minerals.
Finally, it is important to be mindful of the products you use on your nails. Avoid harsh chemicals in nail polish removers and cleaning products, as these can weaken your nails. Constant use of nail polish can also weaken the nail, so it is recommended to let your nails be polish-free for a week after wearing nail polish for a similar period.
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Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein
Eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein is essential for promoting nail growth and maintaining strong, healthy nails. Nails, like other parts of the body, require a balanced diet that includes protein, water, fruits, vegetables, and a range of vitamins and minerals.
Protein is a crucial component of a healthy diet, as it helps build and repair body tissues. Specifically, the protein keratin is the building block of nails, hair, and skin. Therefore, consuming adequate protein ensures the body has the necessary building blocks to support nail growth. Good dietary sources of protein include eggs, chicken, turkey, lean beef, pork, and fish. For vegetarians and vegans, protein sources such as lentils, peanuts, nuts, and dairy products like cheese and milk are recommended.
In addition to protein, a well-balanced diet should also include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. These provide essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health and support nail growth. For example, vitamin C aids in tissue growth and repair, while vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin and soft tissue. Iron is another important mineral, as insufficient iron intake can lead to brittle or dented nails.
While increasing protein intake may not directly lead to faster nail growth, addressing a protein deficiency can help strengthen nails and prevent breakage. This, in turn, allows nails to grow longer and stronger over time. Additionally, maintaining overall health through a balanced diet can help support nail health and growth.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest that increasing protein intake will not directly impact nail growth or strength unless there is an underlying protein deficiency, which is rare in certain populations. Instead, it is recommended to focus on addressing any nutritional deficiencies and consuming a well-balanced diet to support overall health and nail growth.
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Keep nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria from growing
Keeping your nails clean and dry is essential for preventing bacteria from growing beneath them. Nails are a reflection of your overall health, and maintaining good nail hygiene can help prevent the transmission of diseases. Here are some tips to keep your nails clean and bacteria-free:
Firstly, it is important to keep your nails short and trim them regularly. Long nails can accumulate more dirt and bacteria, increasing the risk of nail infections. Trim your nails straight across and then round the tips into a soft curve using sharp manicure scissors or clippers. Avoid biting your nails or using your teeth as nail clippers, as this can introduce bacteria and cause infections.
When washing your hands, pay special attention to your nails and ensure you get soap and water under them. Use lukewarm water, as it is less drying than very hot water, and choose antibacterial soaps or job-specific hand soaps designed to remove grease and dirt. You can also use a nail brush to scrub the underside of your nails. Wash and air-dry the nail brush after each use to prevent bacterial accumulation.
After washing your hands, dry them thoroughly, including your nails, to minimize the risk of nail infections. Moisturize your hands, nails, and cuticles with lotion or petroleum jelly to prevent overdrying and keep your nails flexible and healthy.
Additionally, consider using a nail strengthener or a protective top coat to fortify your nails. Some clear nail polishes contain nylon fibers that can add strength to your nails. You can also take biotin supplements, which have been shown to strengthen brittle nails, making them less prone to breakage and allowing them to grow longer over time.
By following these steps, you can effectively keep your nails clean and dry, thereby preventing bacteria from growing and promoting overall nail health.
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Frequently asked questions
There are no products that can make your fingernails grow faster as they grow at a fixed rate. However, there are some products that can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from breaking, giving them a chance to grow longer. These include:
- Biotin supplements
- Moisturising lotions
- Dr. Dana Nail Treatment System, which contains Pistacia Lentiscus, a natural ingredient derived from the sap of a Mediterranean evergreen tree
Aside from products, there are several other things you can do to help your nails grow:
- Keep your nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria from growing beneath them.
- Trim your nails regularly with sharp manicure scissors or clippers, rounding the tips into a soft curve.
- Avoid biting your nails or cutting them too short.
- Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean sources of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
- Improve circulation to your fingers through regular hand massages or by exercising your fingers.
On average, fingernails grow at a rate of about 3.47 mm per month, while toenails grow at a slower rate of 1.62 mm per month. It's important to note that nail growth can vary depending on factors such as age, season, and dominant hand.
Slow nail growth can be caused by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. If you are concerned about slow nail growth, it is recommended to consult a doctor who can advise you on any necessary next steps.
Keeping your nails moisturised is important, especially during the drier months of fall and winter when nails are more prone to cracking and splitting. Moisturising can help prevent breakage and allow your nails to grow longer.
