Caleb Foster
Nails are prone to damage as they are located at the back of our fingertips and toes. If a nail is ripped off, it will usually grow back, but this depends on the extent of the damage to the nail matrix and nail bed. Minor damage to the nail matrix will produce minor defects in the nail, whereas more significant damage can result in permanent deformities. Nails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches per month and require 3-6 months to completely regrow. In the case of a ripped nail, it is important to keep the nail bed clean and covered with petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment and a bandage until the nail has regrown.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Will the nail grow back? | Yes, if there is no permanent damage to the nail matrix or nail bed. |
| How does the nail grow back? | Nails grow from the base, pushing other nail cells forward. |
| How long will it take to grow back? | Fingernails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches or 1-1.3 mm per month and can take 3-6 months to regrow completely. Toenails grow more slowly, usually at half the rate of fingernails, and may take up to 18 months to regrow. |
| What to do if the nail is ripped off? | If there is any damage to the surrounding tissues, nail bed, nail matrix, or proximal nail fold, a physician should be consulted. If a portion of the nail is still attached to the nail bed, it can be left alone, and the non-adhering portion should be removed. |
| What factors can affect nail growth? | Age, diseases that decrease blood flow to the hands and feet, skin conditions, and certain medications can slow down nail growth. |
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What You'll Learn
Nail matrix damage
The nail matrix is the "factory" where your body makes new fingernails and toenails. Located at the base of the nail, it creates new cells that allow your nail to grow. A healthy nail matrix is essential for healthy nails.
Injuries and certain health conditions can damage your nail matrix and interfere with nail growth. Minor damage to your nail matrix can temporarily change your nail's appearance. You might notice dents, horizontal ridges or lines, pain or soreness, splits or cracks, spots or streaks of colour, and texture changes, such as thickening, ridging, discoloration, or a rough texture. Severe trauma, such as crushing injuries or deep cuts, may result in long-term or permanent effects if the nail matrix is significantly damaged. Peripheral artery disease (PAD), for example, causes reduced blood flow to your nail matrix, affecting nail growth.
In cases of severe nail matrix damage, some or all of your nail may not grow back. However, it is rare for your nail matrix to be permanently damaged, preventing your nail from growing back. With the right treatment, you can often see healthy nails grow again. Even if your nail falls off, it usually grows back with proper medical care.
If you notice any changes to your nail's appearance or texture, see a healthcare provider. They can determine the cause and recommend treatment if needed.
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Fingernail growth rate
Fingernails grow at an average rate of about a tenth of a millimeter per day, or 3.47 millimeters per month. However, this rate can vary depending on several factors, including the finger, the hand, age, hormone levels, and overall health. For example, the nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster than those on the non-dominant hand, and nails on longer fingers grow faster than those on shorter fingers. Nail growth is also typically faster during the day and in the summer.
The growth rate of fingernails slows with age, with an estimated slowdown of up to 0.5% per year after age 20. This may be due to the decreased blood circulation that comes with aging. Hormones also play a role, with pregnancy and puberty influencing nail growth rates. Additionally, certain health conditions, such as peripheral artery disease, eczema, and psoriasis, can affect the nail matrix and slow nail growth.
In the event of a fingernail being ripped off, it will usually grow back. The nail matrix, located under the base of the nail, is responsible for nail growth. As long as it is not permanently damaged, the nail will regrow over time. The regrowth process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the injury and the health of the individual.
While waiting for the nail to regrow, it is important to care for the affected finger properly. This includes keeping the area clean and dry, trimming the remaining nails regularly, and avoiding any further trauma to the area. With proper care and time, the fingernail should grow back to its original state.
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Toenail growth rate
Fingernails and toenails have different growth rates. On average, fingernails grow at a rate of 3.47 mm per month, while toenails grow at a slower rate of 1.62 mm per month. Toenails, therefore, take a longer time to grow back if they are ripped off or broken.
Toenails, like fingernails, will usually grow back if they are ripped off. The nail matrix, or the "factory" where your body makes new nails, can be damaged by injuries or illnesses, which may affect how your nails grow or their appearance. However, with proper medical care, your toenail will typically grow back, and the nail matrix rarely suffers permanent damage.
The growth of a new toenail after it has been ripped off can take several weeks. During this time, the nail matrix heals, and a new nail begins to appear. The nail grows from the base, pushing the other nail cells forward and eventually covering the nail bed.
Factors such as age, nutrition, and season can influence nail growth rates. For example, older individuals or those with inadequate nutrition may experience slower nail growth. Additionally, certain skin conditions, such as severe eczema or psoriasis, can temporarily interfere with nail growth, causing changes in texture or colour.
It is important to note that while waiting for your toenail to grow back, you should protect your toe during physical activities, especially if the nail matrix has been severely damaged. Consult a medical professional for advice on proper care and treatment to ensure the best chances of toenail regrowth.
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Nail bed injuries
Fingernails are made of the same material as hair, and they grow in a similar way. Nails grow from the base of the finger, with new nail cells pushing the older cells forward. If a fingernail is ripped off, the nail bed is often injured, and this can affect how the nail grows back.
If the nail bed is injured, it may be necessary to remove the nail to inspect for damage. Small hematomas require no intervention, but larger or painful hematomas may need to be drained. Lacerations to the nail bed should be repaired with absorbable sutures, and avulsed nails must be removed to check for damage to the nail bed. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection, and bone exposure requires more urgent treatment.
With proper treatment, a damaged nail will usually grow back, although it may take months or even years to regain its proper shape. In severe cases of nail matrix damage, some or all of the nail may not grow back. Complications from nail bed injuries include scarring, loss of the nail fold, destruction of the nail, abnormal nail growth, and infection.
If a nail is ripped off, the nail bed is likely to be injured, and this can affect the growth and shape of the nail as it heals. With proper treatment, the nail will usually grow back, but this process can take a significant amount of time.
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Preventing nail damage
While a torn fingernail will grow back, there are several ways to prevent nail damage in the first place. The nail matrix is the "factory" where your body makes new fingernails and toenails. Certain injuries and illnesses can damage your nail matrix and affect how your nails look or grow. Here are some tips to prevent nail damage:
- Keep your nails short: One way to prevent nail damage is to keep your nails trimmed and at a short length. This helps to reduce the risk of breaking or tearing your nails. When cutting your nails, trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Trim fingernails with a slight curve at the edges, and don't cut them too short.
- Choose the right shoes: Wearing appropriate footwear can help prevent nail damage, especially when it comes to toenails. Make sure your shoes fit properly and provide adequate protection for your feet and toes.
- Wear protective gear: When playing sports or engaging in activities where your hands and feet are at risk, wear protective gear such as gloves or closed-toe shoes to shield your nails from potential trauma.
- Avoid cuticle manipulation: Manipulating the cuticle, either at home or in a nail salon, can potentially damage the nail matrix. It is best to leave the cuticle alone and avoid pushing or cutting it.
- Manage health conditions: Certain health conditions, such as psoriasis or peripheral artery disease, can affect nail growth and health. If you have a condition that could impact your nails, see your healthcare provider regularly to manage it effectively.
- Treat underlying illnesses: Illnesses like COVID-19, pneumonia, or a heart attack can interrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges (Beau's lines). Treating any underlying illnesses can help prevent nail damage and promote healthy nail growth.
By following these tips and being mindful of potential hazards, you can help prevent nail damage and maintain healthy nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, as long as there is no permanent damage to the nail matrix or nail bed, your nail should grow back normally.
Fingernails grow at a rate of 0.13 inches or 1/10th of an inch per month. It will take 3-6 months for a fingernail to completely regrow. Toenails grow at about half the rate of fingernails, so they may take up to 18 months to grow back.
If there is any damage to the surrounding tissues, the nail bed, or the nail matrix, you should seek medical attention. If a portion of the nail is still attached to the nail bed, it can be left alone. The detached portion of the nail should be removed.
A severe injury or illness can cause nails to fall off. Conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can also affect nail growth.
