Isla Bennett
There are many reasons why your nail may appear to be growing two layers. Nails are made of multiple layers of keratin, a protein also found in hair, and these layers can peel or split, causing them to appear thin or weakened. This can be caused by external factors such as frequent exposure to water, or internal factors such as an iron deficiency. However, if your nail appears to be growing two layers, it could be the result of a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which causes discolouration and thickening of the nail. Another possible cause is trauma or injury to the nail bed, which can disrupt the normal growth of the nail. Certain systemic conditions, such as psoriasis or lichen planus, can also cause nails to grow in layers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common causes | Fungal infection, trauma or injury to the nail bed, certain systemic conditions |
| Fungal infection | Onychomycosis, which can cause the nail to change color to yellow, green, or brown and thicken |
| Systemic conditions | Psoriasis, lichen planus, onychogryphosis |
| Symptoms | Change in color, texture, discomfort and pain |
| Treatment | Corticosteroids applied to the nail, corticosteroids injected into the nail, nail removal |
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What You'll Learn
- Onychomycosis, a fungal infection, is the most common cause of layered nails
- Nails may grow in layers due to trauma or injury to the nail bed
- Psoriasis and lichen planus can cause nails to grow in layers
- Nail-hardening agents can cause nail brittleness and splitting
- Peeling nails are rarely a medical emergency but may indicate an iron deficiency
Onychomycosis, a fungal infection, is the most common cause of layered nails
Toenails growing in layers can be caused by several factors, the most common of which is a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. This condition affects about 10% of the general population, with higher rates among older individuals, and approximately half of those over 70 years of age having it. Onychomycosis is characterised by the presence of fungi, most commonly dermatophytes, but also yeasts and molds, that invade the nail bed and disrupt its normal structure and growth.
The infection causes the nail to thicken, become discoloured, and separate from the nail bed. It can affect one or all nails, and severe cases can result in permanent nail damage and pain. The discolouration can manifest as yellow, green, brown, white, or black hues on the nail. Onychomycosis can be more prevalent in toenails due to their slower growth rate, reduced blood supply, and confinement in dark, moist environments that favour fungal growth.
Fungal infections can enter through cracks in the nails, which are more common in older individuals due to brittle and dry nails. Additionally, poor blood circulation to the feet and a weakened immune system can increase susceptibility to nail fungus. Certain underlying conditions, such as athlete's foot, blood circulation problems, nail injuries, or nail surgeries, can also contribute to the development of onychomycosis.
Treatment for onychomycosis typically involves antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken internally. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the nail to allow for direct application of antifungal treatments to the infected area. However, even with successful treatment, recurrence rates are high, ranging from 10% to 50% of cases. Therefore, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to managing onychomycosis effectively.
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Nails may grow in layers due to trauma or injury to the nail bed
Nails growing in layers can be caused by trauma or injury to the nail bed. This can occur when a heavy object is dropped on the toe, causing the nail to fall off. Repeated trauma to the toenails can also be caused by ill-fitting shoes, resulting in deformities that resemble a fungal infection. Nails may thicken, discolour, or lift away from the nail bed.
In addition to physical trauma, nails can be affected by certain skin conditions and diseases, such as eczema, psoriasis, and lichen planus. These conditions can cause changes in the nail matrix, leading to abnormal nail growth and discolouration. It is important to note that any change in the appearance or texture of nails could indicate a nail matrix problem, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Injuries to the nail matrix, the area where new nail cells are produced, can result in bruising, ridges, or discolouration. This can be caused by pinching or crushing the finger or dropping something heavy on the toe. In some cases, the nail may fall off. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy, can also affect the nail matrix, causing Beau's lines (horizontal ridges) or slow nail growth.
Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, are a common cause of nails growing in layers. The infection can lead to thickened, discoloured, and brittle nails. It is crucial to treat fungal infections in their early stages to prevent further complications. Antifungal medications or stopping the use of certain nail products may be recommended by healthcare professionals.
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Psoriasis and lichen planus can cause nails to grow in layers
Nails growing in layers can be a symptom of several conditions, including fungal infections, trauma or injury to the nail bed, and certain systemic conditions. One such systemic condition is psoriasis, which affects the nail matrix and can cause nail changes such as white lines, pitting, and crumbling. Up to 80% of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis, which can lead to nail thickening and discolouration.
Another condition that can cause nails to grow in layers is lichen planus, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the skin and mucosal surfaces. Lichen planus causes nail plate thinning, longitudinal ridging, distal nail plate splitting, onycholysis, onychorrhexis, subungual hyperkeratosis, and pterygium. It can also cause the nails to darken, thicken, or lift off the nail bed. Lichen planus affects about 10% of those with the condition and is more common in women than in men. It is characterised by small, discoloured dots on the skin that can range in size from 0.4 mm to 1 cm. While it usually resolves without treatment, treatments are available to alleviate symptoms such as itching.
Both psoriasis and lichen planus can cause changes in the nail matrix, the part of the nail where new cells are produced, leading to abnormal nail growth and the appearance of layers. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
In addition to psoriasis and lichen planus, other conditions such as onychomycosis, a fungal infection, and Onychogryphosis can also cause nails to grow in layers and thicken. It is important to seek medical advice for a correct diagnosis and treatment.
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Nail-hardening agents can cause nail brittleness and splitting
Nails growing in layers can be caused by a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which causes the nail to thicken and change colour. Other conditions, such as psoriasis, can also cause nails to grow in layers. If you are experiencing this, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
Nail brittleness, or onychoschizia, is characterised by nails that split, flake, and crumble, becoming soft and losing elasticity. It can be caused by an underlying health condition or external factors. Dry and brittle nails, the most common type, are the result of too little moisture and are often caused by repeated washing and drying of the fingernails. Soft and brittle nails, on the other hand, are caused by too much moisture, often due to overexposure to detergents, household cleaners, and nail polish remover.
Nail cosmetics, such as nail hardeners, can contribute to nail brittleness. While these products are intended to strengthen nails, they can sometimes have the opposite effect, making nails more prone to splitting and breakage. This is especially true when used frequently or in combination with other nail cosmetics and procedures.
To prevent nail brittleness caused by nail-hardening agents, it is recommended to opt for nail polish removers that do not contain acetone and to avoid frequent use of removers. Instead, try moisturising your hands and nails after washing and before bed to keep them hydrated. Wearing gloves while doing household chores can also help keep your hands and nails moisturised.
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Peeling nails are rarely a medical emergency but may indicate an iron deficiency
Nails are made from keratin, a protein also found in hair. They have multiple layers that can peel, causing them to appear thin and weak, and ultimately split. The medical term for this is onychoschizia. Peeling nails can result from external factors such as trauma to the nail, picking off nail polish, pressing on your nails, and exposure to chemicals and acrylic nails.
In rare cases, peeling nails can indicate an underlying medical condition, such as iron deficiency, also known as anemia. Anemia occurs when the body has low levels of healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin, a substance that helps red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. Mild iron deficiency can become more serious if left untreated, so it is important to address this issue promptly.
To treat peeling nails caused by iron deficiency, it is recommended to incorporate more iron-rich foods into your diet or take iron supplements. Spinach is a good source of iron. Additionally, keeping your nails moisturized can help. This includes minimizing exposure to water by wearing protective gloves when doing chores and applying lotion before swimming.
In addition to iron deficiency, other possible causes of peeling nails include dehydration and an underactive thyroid. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are concerned about any changes in your nail's appearance or texture, as it could indicate an underlying health issue.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several reasons why your nail might be growing in two layers. One common cause is a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which can cause discolouration and thickening of the nail.
If you have onychomycosis, you may experience discolouration of the nail, such as yellow, green, or brown hues, and the nail may thicken and become brittle.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any changes in your nails, including thickening, discolouration, or the appearance of layers. Early treatment of fungal infections is crucial.
Yes, certain systemic conditions, such as psoriasis or lichen planus, can cause layered nail growth due to changes in the nail matrix. Trauma or injury to the nail bed can also disrupt normal nail growth, resulting in layers.
The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails form. It consists of two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix, while the sterile matrix keeps the nail attached to the underlying skin.
