Caleb Foster
Toenails, just like fingernails, are made of layers of keratin, a protein also found in hair. Typically, cracks in nails will heal as they grow, but this can take 12 to 18 months for toenails. In some cases, a split toenail may be an accessory nail, a genetic trait where a minuscule sixth toenail grows alongside the main toenail. Accessory nails are usually left alone unless they are bothersome, in which case a foot surgeon can be consulted about removal surgery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a split pinky toenail called? | Accessory nails, double toenails, or sixth toenails |
| What causes them? | Inherited, genetic trait |
| Can they be removed? | Yes, surgically or chemically through a matricectomy |
| Will they grow back together? | No, they will continue to grow back as two separate toenails |
| What can be done to manage them? | Keep nails trimmed short to prevent them from catching on objects and tearing |
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What You'll Learn
Pinky toenails can split lengthwise due to genetics
Pinky toenails can split lengthwise due to a variety of factors, including physical stress, nutrient deficiency, injury, or genetics. This condition, known as an accessory nail or double nail of the fifth toe, is characterized by a minuscule sixth toenail protruding outward from the corner of the smallest toe. While it is commonly associated with individuals of Han Chinese descent, studies have shown that it occurs in people from all ethnicities, races, and regions of the globe.
Genetics is a significant factor contributing to the development of split pinky toenails. Genome-wide scans indicate that the presence of an accessory nail is a heritable trait and may be autosomal dominant. However, the size and structure of this additional nail vary widely, suggesting that multiple genes with minor effects influence this complex trait rather than a single gene following a Mendelian pattern of inheritance.
The prevalence of split pinky toenails, or accessory nails, varies across different regions and ethnicities. A 2005 study by Bian Jianchao found a higher likelihood of individuals with split pinky toenails in the Shanxi province of China. Additionally, around a quarter of Koreans are believed to have this trait, linking it to their Mongolian descent. However, it is important to note that the presence of a split pinky toenail is not solely indicative of Han Chinese or Asian genetic traits, as it occurs globally.
While the exact genetic mechanisms underlying split pinky toenails remain to be fully elucidated, it is generally accepted that this condition is inherited. Individuals with split pinky toenails may choose to leave them as they typically do not cause pain or interfere with daily activities. However, some people opt for surgical or chemical matricectomy, the complete removal or destruction of the nail matrix, for cosmetic reasons or if the nail causes discomfort by catching on clothing or socks.
In summary, pinky toenails can split lengthwise due to genetics, resulting in a condition known as an accessory nail or double nail of the fifth toe. This trait is observed worldwide and is likely influenced by multiple genetic factors. While it is generally benign, individuals may choose to address it through medical or cosmetic procedures if it causes discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
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Home remedies can help hold the nail together
A split toenail will usually grow back with time, although toenails grow slowly and it may take 12 to 18 months for the nail to grow back completely. In the meantime, there are several home remedies that can help hold the nail together.
One option is to reattach the nail with glue. Apply a small amount of adhesive to the nail and then use gentle pressure to push the nail back together. After the glue has set, you can paint over the nail if desired.
Another method involves using a tea bag. Cut a nail-sized portion from an ordinary tea bag and use a brush with adhesive to glue it onto your nail. Once the glue dries, you can buff and paint the nail.
You can also try a gel and silk wrap to hold the nail in place.
If you are experiencing frequent splitting, avoid excessive moisture on your nails and consider using a nail-hardening solution. Keeping your nails trimmed short can also help prevent them from catching on objects and pulling further off the nail bed.
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Nail psoriasis can cause nails to thicken, crumble, or split
A split pinky toenail will usually grow back together with time as the nail grows out. To aid the healing process, you can cover the nail with petroleum jelly and place a bandage on top. Soaking the nail in saline water 2–3 times a day and reapplying the bandage is also recommended.
Nail psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the nails on your fingers and toes. It causes your skin cells to reproduce quickly, leading to new skin cells growing too fast. This results in changes in the structure and appearance of your nails. Nail psoriasis can cause nails to thicken, crumble, or split.
Nail psoriasis typically appears alongside a psoriatic rash on other parts of the body. It causes discoloration, pitting, and changes in your fingernails and toenails. The skin underneath your nails (nail bed) may change colors, appearing yellow, red, pink, or brown. These color changes are called salmon patches or oil drop spots.
Additionally, your nails may develop dents or pits, ranging in size from 0.4 to 2 millimeters. These pits can be shallow or deep, and you may have anywhere from one or two to more than ten pits per nail. In some cases, the lunula, the small half-moon shape at the bottom of your nail, may turn red due to dilated blood vessels.
Nail psoriasis can also cause your nails to thicken. This thickening may be due to a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which is common in people with psoriasis. Alternatively, it could be caused by the development of a chalky substance underneath the nail, known as subungual hyperkeratosis, which may be painful or uncomfortable.
While there is no cure for nail psoriasis, treatments can help alleviate symptoms. Corticosteroid creams, ointments, or nail polish can be prescribed, but they must reach the nail bed and the area where the nail starts to grow (nail matrix) to be effective. Laser therapy is another option that has been found to be helpful for nail splitting in people with psoriasis.
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Double toenails are a type of accessory nail
A split toenail will usually grow back together with time as the nail grows out. However, a double toenail, also known as an accessory nail, is a different phenomenon. It is an inherited, genetic trait, and will continue to grow back as a double toenail.
Accessory nails can be diagnosed by a physician and sometimes X-rays are used to investigate the underlying bone structure for deformity. Treatment is usually not sought as the condition typically does not cause pain or interfere with everyday activities. However, in some cases, the accessory nail may catch on clothing and socks, causing pain or discomfort. In these instances, podiatric surgery may be considered to remove the nail.
It is important to note that ripping out an accessory nail by oneself is not advisable as it will likely not work due to the genetic nature of the condition, and it may increase the risk of fungal infections. If an accessory nail is causing issues, it is recommended to consult a foot surgeon to discuss toenail removal surgery, also known as a matricectomy.
Overall, while a split toenail will usually heal and grow back together, a double toenail is a separate condition that will continue to grow back as two separate nails due to its genetic basis.
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Toenails grow back together in 12-18 months
Toenails, like hair and skin, can be prone to damage. A split toenail can be caused by physical stress, nutrient deficiency, or wear and tear, or an injury. This can lead to a ridge forming on the nail or a split developing. In some cases, a fungal, bacterial, or yeast infection in the nail bed can cause the nail to thicken and change texture, resulting in weakened and split nails.
If you have a split toenail, it is important to remember that it will usually heal as your nail grows out. Toenails grow slower than fingernails, and it may take 12 to 18 months for a toenail to grow back completely. During this time, you can try some home remedies to fix the nail in place and improve its appearance. For example, you can reattach the nail with a small amount of adhesive and then gently push the nail back together. Alternatively, you can cut a nail-sized portion from a tea bag and use an adhesive to glue it onto your nail. Once the glue sets, you can buff and paint your nail.
If your split toenail is causing you frequent discomfort, you should consult a doctor or a podiatrist for advice. They may recommend a medical treatment option or suggest removing the nail surgically, a procedure known as a matricectomy. This procedure is typically recommended if your nail is constantly catching on your clothes and socks, causing painful tears.
It is important to note that some people have an inherited trait called an accessory nail or double toenail, where a minuscule sixth toenail grows alongside the main toenail on the outermost corner of the smallest toe. This is a genetic condition and is not due to any injury. If this accessory nail is not causing any discomfort, there is usually no need for removal, but it will continue to grow back if removed.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a split toenail will eventually grow back as one piece. However, an accessory nail, also known as a double toenail, is a genetic trait that will continue to grow back as it was.
Accessory nails, also known as double nails of the fifth toe (DNFT) or petaloid toenails, are tiny "sixth toenails" that grow on the outer corner of the pinky toe. They are usually 2-7mm in length and are observed in people from all ethnicities and races.
If your split toenail is not bothering you, there is no need to remove it. However, if it is causing pain or discomfort, you can try home remedies such as reattaching the nail with glue or using a tea bag and adhesive to cover the split. If the nail is constantly catching on your clothes and socks, causing painful tears, you may want to consult a foot surgeon about toenail removal surgery (matricectomy).
