Ava Monroe
The growth of nails is a complex process that involves various factors and can be affected by different variables. The nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle, is responsible for nail growth, generating new cells that form the nail plate. Nails grow approximately 0.1mm per day, and factors like dominant hand usage, season, age, and health conditions can influence their growth rate. Nail care practices, such as trimming and moisturizing, are essential for maintaining nail health and promoting growth. Understanding these factors and implementing proper nail care routines can help individuals achieve their desired nail length and overall nail health.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average growth rate | 0.1mm per day or about 1/10 inch per month |
| Recovery | Once a nail separates from the nail bed, it will not reattach – a new nail must grow in its place |
| Growth area | The nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle at the base of your nail |
| Nail matrix composition | Germinal matrix (90%) and sterile matrix (10%) |
| Nail matrix function | Creates new cells that become your fingernails or toenails |
| Factors affecting growth rate | Time of year, age, dominant hand, finger length, trauma, puberty, hormone levels, nail biting, nail clipping, nutrition, and underlying health conditions |
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What You'll Learn
Nail matrix and its role in nail growth
The nail matrix is a structure located beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. It is responsible for nail growth and is considered the powerhouse of nail growth. The nail matrix is made up of special cells that continuously produce new nail cells, pushing older cells forward until they harden into the nail plate. This process of generating new cells and pushing out old ones is similar to how hair grows.
The nail matrix includes two main parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The germinal matrix, located beneath the proximal nail fold (the skin at the base of the nail below the cuticle), produces most of the nail plate. The sterile matrix, found underneath the nail near the lunula (the white, crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail), primarily helps anchor the nail. While the lunula is the only part of the nail matrix visible to the naked eye, the rest of the matrix remains hidden, quietly generating new nail cells.
The shape and size of the nail matrix influence the characteristics of the nail, including its thickness, width, and curvature. A longer nail matrix will result in a thicker nail, while a flatter matrix will produce a flatter nail. The matrix is exceptionally delicate, and any damage to it can affect the overall health and appearance of the nail, causing imperfections such as white spots, ridges, or grooves. Minor damage to the matrix may result in temporary changes, while severe injuries could cause the nail to fall off.
Certain factors can affect the nail matrix and interfere with nail growth. These include fungal infections, certain medications, skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and illnesses such as heart attacks or COVID-19. Maintaining the health of the nail matrix is crucial for optimal nail growth, and proper care can help safeguard against potential damage.
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Factors influencing nail growth rate
Several factors influence the rate of nail growth, which is a complex and continuous biological process. The average fingernail growth rate is about 0.1 mm per day or 2-4 mm per month, while toenails grow slower, at 1-2 mm per month.
Age
Age plays a role in nail growth, with younger people experiencing faster cell turnover and, consequently, quicker nail growth. As we age, blood circulation slows down, contributing to slower nail growth.
Health and Hormones
Overall health, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic illnesses, and hormonal imbalances, can impact nail growth. Hormone levels, especially during pregnancy, puberty, and lactation, can affect nail growth rates. Additionally, certain medications may also slow down nail growth. Vitamins like biotin, vitamin B12, zinc, and iron promote healthy nail development.
Season
Nails tend to grow faster in the summer and slower in the winter.
Finger
The rate of nail growth varies depending on which finger the nail is on. Generally, the nails on the dominant hand and longer fingers grow faster. The little finger's nail grows slower than the other fingernails.
Nail Care
Mechanical stimulation, such as gentle hand use (typing or massaging), can enhance nail growth. Excessive filing or improper nail care can hinder growth. Regular nail clipping and maintaining good nail hygiene can also positively influence nail growth.
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Conditions affecting nail growth
Several factors can affect nail growth, including injuries, health conditions, skin conditions, and medications.
Injuries
Injuries to the nail matrix, such as pinching, crushing, or dropping something heavy on the toe, can cause bruising, ridges, discolouration, or even nail loss. Nail biting or a blow to the nail can also lead to deformed nail growth.
Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can impact nail growth. For example, peripheral artery disease (PAD) reduces blood flow to the legs and feet, affecting the nail matrix and slowing nail growth. Serious illnesses like heart attacks, COVID-19, or pneumonia can interrupt nail growth and cause Beau's lines (horizontal ridges).
Skin Conditions
Skin conditions such as severe eczema and psoriasis can interfere with nail growth. Eczema may cause Beau's lines, pitting, texture changes, and colour changes. Psoriasis can result in white lines, pitting, and crumbling of the nails.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, such as tinea, can spread to the fingernails or toenails and cause flaking and pitting of the nail plate. Toenail fungus may appear as thick, yellow, cracked, or cloudy nails. Without treatment, the nail bed can become infected, and the nail plate may begin to crumble.
Medications
Certain medications can affect nail growth and cause discolouration. For example, chemotherapy drugs can lead to Beau's lines or slow nail growth. Antibiotics, anti-malarial medications, and some other drugs may also cause nail discolouration or white bands (Mees' lines).
While some nail conditions may require medical treatment from a doctor or dermatologist, others may respond to self-help techniques and lifestyle changes. It is always advisable to seek medical advice when dealing with nail problems to ensure proper care and treatment.
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Maintaining nail health
Keep them trimmed
Regular trimming helps to decrease the risk of trauma to the nail. Nails should be cut almost straight across to protect against ingrown nails. Use a nail file to round the corners, which will prevent them from snagging and breaking. If your nails are thick and hard to cut, try soaking them in warm water for a few minutes first, or trim them after a shower.
Keep them clean and dry
Keeping your hands, feet, and nails dry can help prevent nail splitting. It's also important to keep nails clean to prevent bacteria from accumulating underneath. Wear rubber gloves when doing wet work to keep your nails healthy.
Keep them moisturized
Moisturizing helps nails stay flexible and protects against splitting and damage. Soaps and household cleansers can dehydrate nails, so wear protective gloves when using them.
Add vitamins and nutrients
Consuming vitamins C and D, protein, and calcium can help promote healthier and stronger nails. These can be added to your diet through nuts, beans, lentils, and greens.
Protect the cuticles
Warm oil massages at the cuticle can help maintain nail strength. Oils such as olive oil or coconut oil are recommended.
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Treating nail injuries
Fingernails grow back after being damaged or lost, thanks to the nail matrix—the specialised tissue beneath the skin that produces new nail cells. The nail matrix includes the germinal matrix, which produces most of the nail plate, and the sterile matrix, which aids in anchoring the nail. This area continuously generates new cells, pushing older cells forward until they harden into the nail plate. While nail injuries can often be treated at home, some may require medical attention.
If you have a mild nail injury, board-certified dermatologists recommend the following:
- Treat the wound: If any part of your nail is hanging off, gently trim away the part not connected to your skin.
- Clean the wound: Gently clean the wound using soap and warm water. If the wound is bleeding, do not put a dry bandage or gauze on top as it will stick to the wound. Instead, apply petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist, then cover with gauze or a bandage. Repeat these steps daily while the wound heals.
- Manage pain and swelling: Prop the injured area above your heart to help reduce swelling. Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce swelling when the injury is new. Apply a cool, damp washcloth to the wound to further reduce swelling.
- Protect the nail: Keep a light dressing on the nail, such as an adhesive bandage or a small piece of gauze, to provide padding and protection while it heals.
If your nail injury is not improving after a few days, or if you experience severe pain, bleeding, or discolouration, see a board-certified dermatologist or seek emergency medical care.
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Frequently asked questions
Nails grow stacked because of the nail matrix, the powerhouse of nail growth located beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. The nail matrix continuously produces new cells, pushing older cells forward until they harden into the nail plate.
The nail matrix is the area beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail that produces new nail cells. It includes the germinal matrix, which produces most of the nail plate, and the sterile matrix, which aids in anchoring the nail.
No, you cannot change the shape of your nail matrix. The nail matrix determines the shape and curvature of your nails, and any changes to it can only be made by a medical professional.
Various factors affect nail growth, including age, hormone levels, and nail care practices. Nails tend to grow faster during puberty, and the nails on the dominant hand grow faster due to more frequent use.
Any changes in the appearance or texture of the nails could indicate a nail matrix problem. Signs include discoloration, dents, horizontal ridges, and lines. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
