How long does it take for nails to grow out. How Long Does It Take for Nails to Grow? Ultimate Guide to Nail Growth
How long does it take for fingernails to grow. What factors influence nail growth speed. How can you make your nails grow faster. What is the anatomy of a nail. How does age affect nail growth rate. Why do nails grow faster on your dominant hand. Does the time of year impact nail growth.
The Anatomy of Nail Growth: Understanding the Basics
To comprehend the process of nail growth, it’s essential to familiarize ourselves with the fundamental components of nail anatomy. Let’s explore the key structures that play a role in nail development:
- Matrix: The root of the nail
- Nail plate: The visible part of the nail
- Cuticle: Protective skin layer
- Lunula: The white, half-moon shape at the base of the nail
The matrix is the powerhouse of nail growth. It continuously produces new cells, which push older cells forward, causing them to compact and form the nail plate. This process is responsible for the gradual lengthening of our nails.
The Role of Keratin in Nail Formation
Keratin, a protein found abundantly in nails, hair, and skin, is the primary component of the nail plate. As new cells are created in the matrix, they become packed with keratin, giving nails their strength and durability. This process explains why the visible part of the nail is composed of dead cells, allowing us to trim our nails without discomfort.
The Pace of Nail Growth: How Fast Do Nails Really Grow?
Nail growth is a gradual process that occurs at a relatively slow pace. On average, fingernails grow approximately three millimeters per month, which is roughly one-eighth of an inch or about half the size of a pencil eraser. Toenails, on the other hand, grow even more slowly at a rate of one millimeter per month, which is only one-third the speed of fingernail growth.
Factors Influencing Nail Growth Rate
Several factors can impact the speed at which nails grow:
- Age: Nail growth tends to slow down as we get older
- Dominant hand: Nails on the dominant hand often grow faster
- Finger size: Larger fingers typically have faster-growing nails
- Season: Nails grow more quickly during summer months
- Time of day: Growth is generally faster during daylight hours
Do environmental factors affect nail growth rate. While genetics play a significant role in determining nail growth speed, external factors such as nutrition, overall health, and exposure to certain chemicals can also influence the rate of growth.
The Impact of Age on Nail Growth: What to Expect Over Time
As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and nail growth is no exception. Starting at around age 25, the rate of nail growth begins to decrease by approximately 0.5 percent per year. This gradual slowdown is a natural part of the aging process and affects both fingernails and toenails.
Nail Regrowth Time: Patience is Key
When a nail is lost or damaged, the regrowth process can be lengthy. For fingernails, it typically takes about six months for complete regrowth. Toenails, due to their slower growth rate, may require up to 18 months to fully regenerate. This extended timeline emphasizes the importance of proper nail care and protection to avoid injuries that could lead to nail loss.
The Curious Case of Dominant Hand Nail Growth
An interesting phenomenon in nail growth is the difference observed between the dominant and non-dominant hands. Research has shown that nails on the dominant hand tend to grow faster than those on the non-dominant hand. This means that right-handed individuals will typically experience quicker nail growth on their right hand, while left-handed people will see faster growth on their left hand.
The Science Behind Faster Growth on Larger Fingers
Another intriguing aspect of nail growth is that nails on larger fingers, such as the thumb and middle finger, often grow more quickly than those on smaller fingers. This variation in growth rate across different digits is thought to be related to blood flow and the size of the nail matrix.
Why do nails on larger fingers grow faster. The increased growth rate on larger fingers is likely due to better blood circulation and a larger nail matrix, which can produce cells more rapidly.
Seasonal Variations in Nail Growth: Summer’s Surprising Effect
Believe it or not, the time of year can influence how quickly your nails grow. Studies have shown that nail growth tends to accelerate during the summer months. This seasonal variation may be attributed to increased blood circulation and metabolic activity in warmer weather.
The Day-Night Cycle of Nail Growth
In addition to seasonal changes, nail growth also follows a daily pattern. Nails grow faster during the day compared to nighttime hours. This diurnal rhythm in nail growth is likely linked to our body’s circadian cycles and may be influenced by factors such as hormone levels and metabolic activity.
How does the circadian rhythm affect nail growth. The body’s natural 24-hour cycle influences various physiological processes, including nail growth. During the day, when we are more active and our metabolism is higher, nail growth tends to accelerate.
Strategies for Promoting Faster Nail Growth
While we can’t dramatically alter the natural pace of nail growth, there are several steps we can take to ensure our nails grow as healthily and quickly as possible:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in biotin, vitamin E, and protein
- Stay hydrated to support overall nail health
- Use moisturizing hand creams and cuticle oils regularly
- Avoid harsh chemicals and wear gloves when doing household chores
- Consider taking nail-strengthening supplements (consult with a healthcare professional first)
- Gently file nails in one direction to prevent splitting and breakage
- Massage your nail beds to stimulate blood flow
Can certain foods boost nail growth. While no food can dramatically speed up nail growth, consuming a diet rich in biotin (found in eggs, nuts, and whole grains), protein, and vitamins can support overall nail health and potentially contribute to slightly faster growth.
Essential Nail Care Tips for Optimal Growth and Health
To promote healthy nail growth and maintain strong, beautiful nails, consider incorporating these nail care tips into your routine:
- Clip nails straight across, slightly rounding the edges to prevent snags
- Avoid cutting or pushing back cuticles, as they protect the nail root
- Refrain from biting nails or using them as tools to prevent damage
- Keep nails dry to prevent fungal infections
- Wear properly fitting shoes to protect toenails from injury
- Use a nail file to manage length and shape between trims
- Apply a base coat when using nail polish to protect nails from staining
The Importance of Cuticle Care
Proper cuticle care is crucial for maintaining healthy nails and promoting optimal growth. The cuticle acts as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria and other harmful substances from entering the nail bed. Instead of cutting or pushing back cuticles, focus on keeping them moisturized and healthy.
How can you care for your cuticles without cutting them. Apply cuticle oil daily to keep the area moisturized, gently push back overgrown cuticles after a shower when they’re soft, and avoid picking or biting the skin around your nails.
Debunking Nail Growth Myths and Misconceptions
There are many myths surrounding nail growth and care. Let’s address some common misconceptions:
- Myth: Gelatin supplements dramatically speed up nail growth
- Fact: While gelatin contains proteins that may support nail health, it won’t significantly accelerate growth
- Myth: Nails need to “breathe” between polish applications
- Fact: Nails don’t actually breathe; however, taking breaks from polish can prevent staining
- Myth: White spots on nails indicate calcium deficiency
- Fact: These spots are usually caused by minor trauma to the nail, not nutritional deficiencies
- Myth: Applying vitamin E oil directly to nails boosts growth
- Fact: While vitamin E can help moisturize nails, it doesn’t directly increase growth rate
Do nail-hardening products increase growth rate. Nail-hardening products can help strengthen nails and prevent breakage, potentially allowing them to grow longer. However, they don’t actually increase the rate of nail growth itself.
The Truth About Nail Growth Supplements
While various supplements claim to boost nail growth, it’s important to approach these products with caution. Biotin, a B-vitamin, is often touted for its nail-strengthening properties. However, unless you have a biotin deficiency, taking supplements may not significantly impact nail growth. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
When should you consider taking nail growth supplements. If you have brittle, weak nails that break easily despite proper care and a balanced diet, consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider. They can assess whether supplements might be beneficial for your specific situation.
Understanding Nail Growth Disorders and When to Seek Professional Help
While variations in nail growth are normal, certain conditions can affect the health and appearance of nails. Some common nail disorders include:
- Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection)
- Psoriasis of the nails
- Lichen planus affecting nails
- Anemia-related nail changes
- Paronychia (infection of the skin around the nail)
If you notice persistent changes in your nails’ appearance, texture, or growth pattern, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional. They can diagnose any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatments.
Signs That Warrant Professional Attention
Be on the lookout for these signs that may indicate a need for professional evaluation:
- Discoloration that doesn’t grow out with the nail
- Persistent pain or swelling around the nail
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- Thickening or thinning of nails
- Unusual curves or dents in the nail surface
When should you be concerned about changes in nail growth or appearance. If you notice persistent changes that last more than a few weeks, affect multiple nails, or are accompanied by pain or discomfort, it’s best to seek professional medical advice to rule out any underlying health issues.
How Long Does It Take for Nails to Grow?
Sometimes, beauty can feel like a waiting game. From waiting for your hair to grow after some spur-of-the-moment bangs to waiting for your skin to clear up after a breakout, these things cannot be rushed. Add growing your nails to that list.
Whether you’re guilty of biting your nails or simply want to learn how to make your nails grow faster so you can ditch your acrylics, nails don’t grow overnight but proper care can speed up the process. Take notes as we share how long it takes for nails to grow, plus some easy tips to help them grow faster.
How Do Nails Grow?
Before we dive into how fast nails grow, let’s talk a bit about how they grow in general. You can think of this as nail anatomy 101, made simple. To start, you need to understand what makes up the nail and how that affects the growth cycle.
Matrix: This is the root of the nail, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It’s constantly making new cells. These new cells force the old ones to become packed together and get pushed through the matrix.
Nail plate: The hard part of your nail — the actual fingernail that you’re hoping to grow is known as the nail plate and it is mostly made of a substance called keratin, as stated by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). This is what those packed old cells mentioned above form. At this point, the cells are dead, which is why you don’t feel anything when you cut your nails, per the AAD.
Cuticle: This is a term you’re likely familiar with. The AAD explains that the cuticle is a small section of skin that protects the matrix from germs. While it doesn’t directly relate to how nails grow, it’s still super important and necessary for the health of your nails.
Lunula: According to the NCBI, the lunula is the small, white, half-moon shape that can be seen at the bottom of your nails. You likely will notice this on your thumbs, but it’s present on all of your nails. It’s part of the matrix and it’s the only part of it that is visible.
How Long Does It Take for Nails to Grow?
Now that you know how nails grow, the next part is understanding how long it takes for them to grow. As you can expect, it’s a slow and steady process. Here are a few things worth noting when it comes to how fast nails grow.
1. Nails Grow Slowly
According to the NCBI, on average, fingernails grow around three millimeters per month. Three millimeters is about one-eight of an inch or about half the size of a pencil eraser. Toenails are even slower and grow at one-third of that rate at one millimeter per month.
2. Nails Grow Slower With Age
Starting at age 25, expect the rate of growth to decrease by approximately 0.5 percent per year, according to the NCBI. If you lose a fingernail, expect it to take around half a year to grow back, per the AAD. A toenail can take a year and a half to fully grow back.
3. Your Dominant Hand Grows Faster
The AAD shares that if you’re right-handed, your nails will grow faster on your right hand and if you’re left-handed, they’ll grow faster on your left. Nails also grow faster on your larger fingers.
4. The Time Of Year Impacts Nail Growth
According to the AAD, nails grow faster during the summer. They also grow faster during the day.
How to Make Your Nails Grow Faster
Now that you’re a pro on the topic nail growth, you’re probably wondering if there is a way to make your nails grow faster. While there is no magic solution for speeding up nail growth, the best way to encourage growth is to make sure your nails are strong and healthy. On that note, here are a few nail care tips, courtesy of the AAD.
1. Clip Your Nails
Cut your nails straight across, slightly rounding the edges while making sure there are no snags or tears. You can also use a nail file to manage the length.
The same goes for your toenails. Keeping your toenails short will help to minimize the risk of injury and trauma.
2. Don’t Cut Your Cuticles
Cuticles protect the nail root so don’t push them back and definitely don’t cut them. Trimming your cuticles makes it easier for bacteria to get inside the body and can lead to infection.
Editor’s tip: Applying cuticle oil daily can help to keep the cuticles well-moisturized while preventing dead skin from growing on the natural nails.
3. Don’t Bite Your Nails
Reiterating that this is an absolute no-no — don’t bite your nails. Doing so can harm the nails and damage the cuticles. If you need some help to avoid biting your nails, try a fun set of press-on nails.
4. Keep Your Nails Dry
Unless you’re getting a manicure, your nails shouldn’t be moist. That said, if your toenails are difficult to cut, you can soak them in salt water for five to ten minutes prior to cutting to help them soften.
5. Wear Shoes That Fit
Tight shoes can harm your toenails — if you needed another reason to stick with comfortable footwear, this is a good one.
Next: 30 Gorgeous Nail Designs and Colors For Short Nails
Edited by: Reece Andavolgyi, Photo by: iStock
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How to Grow Long, Healthy Nails—and Fast
Say buh-bye to short, brittle nails.
By
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti has nearly 10 years experience, covering nearly all beats. Bylines include Byrdie, BRIDES, TeenVogue, Allure, TODAY Parents, HuffPost, Yahoo, and The Sunday Edit.
Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 12/08/22 01:36PM
Reviewed by
Evelyn Lim
Reviewed by
Evelyn Lim
Evelyn Lim is a nail expert with more than 18 years of experience. She currently serves as the chief educator of Paintbox, a top nail studio in NYC.
About Byrdie’s Beauty & Wellness Board
Nail Educator
Fact checked by
Hallie Gould
Fact checked by
Hallie Gould
Hallie Gould is Byrdie’s editor in chief + GM. She has a decade’s worth of experience as a writer and editor, and her bylines can be found in such publications as ELLE, Cosmopolitan, and InStyle.
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Having short or brittle nails can be a huge pain—both literally and figuratively. Whether you’re devastated about breaking a nail you’ve worked so hard to grow or have suffered some sort of nail trauma that is causing pain or discomfort, we know you want to learn how to grow nails fast. And while Dr. Kathleen S. Viscusi tells us that increased trauma may actually speed up nail growth—breaking a nail triggers your body to send more blood and an influx of nutrients to the area to help repair it—that’s not to say that you should intentionally break a nail to stimulate growth (phew!).
If you’re wondering how to grow nails fast, there are solutions to make your long-nail dreams come true—and they don’t involve tips and overlays, either. According to Viscusi and nail expert Syreeta Aaron, with proper care, maintenance, and education you can be well on your way to achieving healthy nails, and in turn, nail growth.
Meet the Expert
- Syreeta Aaron is a LeChat Nails educator and professional nail artist.
- Kathleen S. Viscusi, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is the co-founder/partner of Dermatology and Surgery Specialists of North Atlanta (DESSNA).
Keep scrolling to learn how to grow your nails faster.
01
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Protect Nails
Protecting your nails from harsh chemicals—including popular nail polish remover ingredient, acetone—will keep nails healthy and moisturized. Opt for a non-acetone natural remover like Sign Tribe Remove and Chill Nail Polish Eraser Cream for a non-traditional option—you won’t regret it.
02
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Try a Keratin Supplement
Olly
Undeniable Beauty
$14.00
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Keratin is not just a hair treatment—it’s actually the main protein that makes up your nails. So taking a keratin supplement could help build strength and resiliency, much in the same way it works on your hair. Taking it orally or applying it topically as an oil may bring you one step closer to long and healthy nails.
03
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Maintain a Healthy Diet
Apart from ingesting protein as a keratin supplement, you should also be incorporating food with protein into your diet. Not only is it important to eat the right amount of protein for your overall health and nutrition, but it can also affect your nails and the speed at which they grow. “Vitamins and eating healthy promotes better conditioning from within to help with the growth of your nails,” says Aaron.
04
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Use Cuticle Oil or Serum
Olive & June
Cuticle Serum Duo
$30.00
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Staying hydrated is an important part of any self-care routine—cuticles included. By using cuticle oil regularly, you’ll avoid breakage and picking while simultaneously keeping your nails healthy and flexible, too. Dry nails will break and chip while well-moisturized ones will grow nice and long. “Keep in mind that it takes about 12 weeks for a nail to fully grow out from cuticle to tip. Healthy cuticles lead to healthy nails (as a healthy scalp leads to healthy hair),” comments Aaron.
05
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Practice Good Grooming
When we hear the word “grooming” our minds first jump to men’s facial hair and Tom Hardy; but, practicing good grooming is also key to having healthy nails. “Grooming nails on a regular basis may protect your nails from breakage,” says Aaron. “When grooming your nails, you are removing dead skin and replenishing nutrients such as oil/moisture giving growth of your nails a better chance,” she explains. Viscusi adds, “Frequent nail clipping can help stimulate circulation in the nail bed and help nails grow.”
Filing is also a part of nail grooming. If your nails are brittle, we recommend switching to a crystal nail file—a gentler alternative to your traditional emery board—to maintain their shape.
06
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Apply a Nail Strengthener
Isdin
SI-Nails Nail Strengthener
$32.00
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In order for nails to grow long (without breaking), they need to be strong. Viscusi recommends applying a dermatologist-approved nail strengthener daily. Her pick? ISDIN SI-Nails. “This innovative formula has been clinically proven to help strengthen nails by hardening and increasing thickness, density, and durability of the nail and cuticle in just 14 days. SI Nails also promotes keratin and silicon in the nails to help improve growth specifically,” she tells us. Meanwhile, Aaron likes IBX Nail Treatment. “There is a trio pack that includes repair, strengthener, and oil that completes for a great at-home manicure,” she says.
When nails absorb too much water or are exposed to harsh chemicals they can weaken and become dry, which leads to breakage and cracks that stunt growth. So any time you’re doing dishes or household chores be sure to protect your nails by wearing rubber gloves.
07
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Take Biotin
Jarrow Formulas
Biotin Supplement
$12.00
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Biotin is a vitamin often touted for its ability to grow hair and nails. It’s water-soluble and helps aid in the body’s processing of glucose, fats, and proteins. One reason it’s often recommended for nail growth? Those with biotin deficiencies will often see brittle nails as a result. Anecdotally, many who take biotin supplements report seeing improvements in nail growth, and clinical trials have shown the supplements lead to an improvement in thickness.
08
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Avoid Fake Nails
Acrylics may help you beat that nasty nail-biting habit but they can also do a number on your nails. “Avoiding nail enhancements prevents your nails from weakening, which also helps with less breakage and allows your nails to harden,” explains Aaron.
09
of 09
Consider Collagen
Great Lakes Wellness
Collagen Peptide Packets
$31.00
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Collagen helps support the body in several ways, including in the health of hair, nails, and skin. Research has found that collagen supplements (specifically those in powder form) can improve the hydration and elasticity of nails and skin.
Byrdie Predicts: The Top Nail Trends for 2022 and Beyond
Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
Journal of Dermatology Treatment. “Biotin for the treatment of nail disease.” June 2018.
Bolke L, Schlippe G, Gerß J, Voss W. ACollagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients. 2019;11(10):2494. doi:10.3390/nu11102494
How many days do fingernails grow. How to grow long nails – tips
Contents
- How many days do fingernails grow. How to grow long nails – tips
- The correct shape of nails
- File without damaging
- Nails also need a rest
- Shellac: pros and cons
- Special products
- Vitamins: inside and on nails 90 008
- Don’t forget the massage
- Simple and useful masks
- Home baths
- How long does hair grow. Average regrowth rate
- How long does it take to grow nails. How to quickly grow nails: urgent measures
- How long does it take to grow a fingernail. How long does it take for a removed nail to grow back?
- Peculiarities of nail growth
- How long does it take for a nail to grow
- Nutrition for nail growth
- Recommendations of specialists
- Pharmacy and folk remedies
How many days do fingernails grow. How to grow long nails – tips
In order for nails not to break, not to exfoliate, but to grow faster, an integrated approach is required: from proper nutrition to products for strengthening the nail plate and paraffin therapy.
Follow basic hand care – dry them after washing to prevent bacteria from entering, wear gloves in the cold and while doing housework. And for nails, do separate procedures – masks, baths, massages , give them a break from varnish.
The correct form of nails
For those who are trying to grow long nails, it is better to abandon triangular, square and other pointed shapes, despite fashion trends. Round and oval nails break less than others, because they don’t cling to anything. For a while, until the nails grow back, choose just such options.
File without damaging
If the nail peels or breaks all the time, metal file will only aggravate the situation. For damaged nails, choose cardboard plastic. File them in one direction – from the edge to the center.
Nails also need a rest
Walking all year round with painted nails is beautiful, but harmful to the plate. Take breaks for 1-2 weeks once a season. Apply a strengthening agent on your nails – and they will look neat and take a break from varnish.
Shellac: pros and cons
Shellac, on the one hand, helps to quickly grow nails. Because under its thick layer, the plate practically does not break.
But there is another side. During the removal of gel polish , the plate is damaged. Someone strongly, someone – a little bit, depending on the condition of the nails and technology. Even if the nail looks healthy on the outside, after shellac, take a break for manicure without a lamp.
Special products
To get beautiful nails, buy a strengthening product and cosmetic paraffin. Use the first as a base for varnish and rub during the care procedures.
Paraffin moisturizes the skin of the hands and strengthens the nails. Apply cream to the brushes, then heated paraffin wax and wait until it cools down. Put on gloves. Leave the mass on the nails overnight or for 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, use beeswax.
If you are afraid of getting a burn at home, from which no one is safe, sign up for paraffin therapy at the salon.
Vitamins: inside and on nails
Vitamins A and B are especially important for strong and long nails. The first is responsible for their growth, the second – for strength. So eat carrots and peppers, dairy products . The latter also contain calcium, which prevents delamination of the plates.
If your body lacks vitamins and they do not reach the nails, buy capsules and rub their contents into the nail plate.
Don’t forget to massage
Massage your fingertips and nails to improve circulation. Rub cuticle cream or natural oil into the plate. Then do a peel. If there is no special brush, you can exfoliate excess particles with a toothbrush.
If you play a keyboard musical instrument or type a lot on the keyboard, this is your massage, no additional massage is required.
Simple and healthy masks
To nourish the skin of hands and nails, buy special sheet masks or prepare a composition of nourishing ingredients. For example, extract vitamin A and E capsules from the shell, mix with iodine and heat in a water bath. Apply the composition on the nails and phalanges of the fingers for 20-30 minutes.
Home baths
Baths are also prepared from ingredients that many people have at home – iodine, sea salt, herbs, natural oils. One of the possible options is this: add chamomile to boiling water, insist for half an hour, pour a glass of wine – and dip your hands into this mixture.
Those who don’t like to use oils and herbs can use lemon . Cut the fruit in half and run the fingertips of the right hand in one half and the left in the other. The duration of the procedure is 3-5 minutes.
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How much hair grows. Average regrowth rate
Growth rate is a very individual measure, so to show how much hair grows back in different people, let’s make some comparisons.
- Hair growth rate per day: for women – 0.5-0.6 mm, for men – 0.04-0.5 mm.
- Women’s strands grow by 15-20 mm per month, men by 2-15 mm.
- Women’s hair grows 10-20 centimeters a year. This is the maximum length laid down by physiological processes. No advertisement for miracle cures can overcome this norm.
- The passage of the entire cycle in men is twice as fast as in women.
- Hair grows most actively between the ages of 15 and 30.
- Black hair grows 0.27 mm per month due to curling; in Mongoloids – by 1.5-2 cm; for Caucasians – by 1.2-1.5 cm.
- During the day, the follicles are in an active phase, at night they are at rest.
And a few more facts about the rate of hair growth.
- In winter, curls grow back more slowly than in summer, as blood circulation slows down during the winter months.
- In a warm climate, their growth rate is higher than in a cold one. In humid climates, hair grows much faster.
- Proper nutrition improves overall condition and hair growth.
- If hair grows quickly in older generations in a family, then it is likely that heredity will play a positive role in this matter.
- The myth that the more often you cut your hair, the faster your hair grows, remains a myth. After shearing, the growth rate does not change, since the tips are cut, and growth comes from the root.
- Good cosmetics, including home-made ones, improve the structure of the hairline and accelerate its growth.
How long does it take to grow nails. How to grow your nails fast: urgent action
Want to know how to grow your nails fast? Don’t have time for baths?
For those who really urgently need to grow their nails, we are pleased to offer an effective way. It will allow you to achieve your goal in just 2 days. Can you imagine this? Of course, you will need time and patience. The recipe is as follows: take red ground pepper (1/2 teaspoon), add the same amount of hand cream and about 20 drops of water. Warm up the resulting consistency and place your hands in it. You need to keep no more than twenty minutes. It is possible that you will feel a slight burning sensation. During this cosmetic procedure, in no case try to scratch your eyes. It is dangerous for the mucous membrane.
You can grow your nails in five days if you use special nail growth stimulants. We are talking about drugs that are sold in cosmetic stores and pharmacies. Such preparations, as a rule, are filled with whole vitamin complexes, useful microelements, essential oils. Read the instructions for how often and when to apply the drug.
All nails need strengthening. Unhealthy nails often break, exfoliate. So, they need help in recovery. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods and ways to get rid of nail problems.
Remember about proper nutrition. It is an illiterate approach to nutrition that is the cause of brittle nails, their poor slow growth. As a rule, problems with nails begin with a lack of vitamins A, E. Doctors advise eating fish, chicken, pork liver, fresh fruits, eggs, vegetables. To compensate for the lack of vitamin B, you need to diversify the diet with dairy products, cereals, legumes.
- Calcium is found in cottage cheese, cabbage, spinach, seafood. Iodine deficiency is replenished by drinking milk, spinach, mushrooms, pineapples. White spots on the nail plates are evidence of zinc deficiency. You need to eat lamb, beef, pork, pumpkin, etc.
- Eating foods rich in nicotinic acid helps to get rid of yellow nails. This refers to rice, seeds, porcini mushrooms. Those who love buckwheat, tomatoes, oatmeal, garlic, onions never suffer from deformation of the nail plates, because the products presented are rich in sulfur.
Thus, only an integrated approach will allow you to make your nails truly strong and long. It is important not only to do cosmetic procedures, but also to ensure that the food is complete.
Those who suffer from nail biting will have to get rid of it. Because you will nullify your efforts. And you will not be able to show off your beautiful well-groomed hands.
Do not forget about the use of rubber gloves when doing some housework. Hands should be protected. Otherwise, they will not be able to preserve their youth. As for the choice of the shape of the nails, it should be noted that it all depends on the taste. Some like square-shaped legs, others – rounded, and others – oval. Remember that nails like to be filed, not cut. Then they grow better, faster. They look much healthier.
How long does it take for a fingernail to grow. How long does it take for a removed nail to grow back?
Injuries, fungal infections, improper nail care – all this can cause damage to the plate and require surgical removal. This procedure does not carry a great danger, but it is accompanied by extremely unpleasant symptoms and discomfort in humans.
About how much the toenail grows after its removal, and how to speed up this process – later in the article.
Features of nail regrowth
How quickly toenails grow is largely determined by the following factors:
- A person’s age. In older people, nails grow longer. In this case, the plate itself is often coarser and delaminates. This greatly complicates the process of nail care.
- Features of nutrition.
- Fundamentals of medical therapy and nail care.
- The complexity of the surgical intervention and the degree of neglect of the primary nail disease.
- Root cause requiring surgery. At the same time, it is known that if the removal of the nail was performed due to trauma, then there is a high probability that soon after the healing of the skin, the stratum corneum will begin to develop. It will take 6-12 months to fully restore a healthy nail.
- Features of skin regeneration, which may be different for each person.
- The immune status of the organism.
- Season of the year. According to observations, it was found that in the summer and autumn, the body is more saturated with vitamins, due to which the nails grow faster. The situation changes in winter and early spring. In this case, all energy will be directed to supporting immunity and fighting seasonal colds.
- The technique used to remove the nail, and the presence of complications. Thus, operations using a laser are less painful and traumatic than open surgery. The recovery period of the nail after them is quite fast.
How long does it take for a nail to grow back? This process is highly individual and varies from person to person.
For example, in children under six years old, a new nail can fully recover in just 4 months. In adults, this process can take up to a year. At the same time, if an injury to the nail bed has been suffered, the plate may grow unevenly, be uneven.
Within a month, the nail grows by an average of 3-4 mm.
Nails grow the slowest in elderly people who suffer from severe chronic diseases that lead to depletion of the body (infectious diseases, beriberi, diabetes mellitus).
Attention! To speed up the process of nail regrowth, it is useful to take vitamin complexes, some will include vitamin B.
Nutrition for nail growth a
Worth knowing! The rate of regrowth of toenails is slower than on the hands. Moreover, it is known that the nails on the working hand (in most people on the right) grow more slowly.
To speed up the process of nail restoration and wound healing, you should follow these tips:
To relieve the inflammatory process and speed up the wound healing process after nail removal, the following recipes can be used:
During the period of nail growth, it is useful to lubricate the plate with sea buckthorn oil to speed up the regeneration process.
How to Grow Your Nails: 5 Expert Tips
Health
© unsplash
Author
Hope Gurina
January 15, 2022
Growing nails is a whole complex of procedures, including hand care, proper nutrition and following certain rules in everyday life
Nails begin to grow even before a person is born, and are continuously renewed throughout life. Each one grows at its own pace. There are different ways to speed up the growth of nails. It is important that the nails are not only long, but also healthy – smooth, hard, without dents, grooves – and of a uniform color.
- How fast nails grow
- How to grow nails: 5 tips
- How to strengthen nails
- How to grow nails after an injury
- What to do after infection
- How not to break your nails
Experts in this article:
Natalya Shchepleva, mycologist, dermatologist, podiatrist at SM-Clinic;
Victoria Kramarenko, manicure master, champion, laureate of international competitions
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How Fast Nails Grow
Nails grow from a small pocket under the skin called the matrix. It constantly produces new cells, which, accumulating, push the old ones out – this is how the nail plate grows. The visible part of the matrix is the lunula, a crescent-shaped light area at the base. The cuticle protects the matrix from microbes and infections [1]. The part that is treated during manicure and pedicure is called the free edge.
Nail growth rate is individual. In children, they grow faster than in the elderly. The growth rate depends on the intake of various drugs (for example, antifungal drugs) and concomitant diseases, says Natalia Shchepleva, mycologist, dermatologist, podiatrist at the SM Clinic.
On average, nails grow 0.1 mm per day, or 3 mm per month. Completely on the hands, they are updated in about 6 months, on the legs it takes from a year to a year and a half. Nails grow back more slowly in people who are immunocompromised, malnourished, or have an acute infection [2].
Here are some more facts about the growth of nails:
- nails grow faster on the thumbs and on the working hand – right or left in left-handers;
- nails grow faster during the day and summer;
- Nail growth slows down with age.
Human nails are made up of many layers of a hard protein called keratin. Between them are layers of fat and water, which give them elasticity and shine
© pexels
How to grow nails: 5 expert tips
Growth consists of several stages: preparation, care and compliance with certain rules. On the advice of Victoria Kramarenko, manicure master, laureate of international competitions in nail aesthetics, the following steps should be followed:
- Remove the old varnish. If the nails had a resistant coating (for example, Shellac), then the procedure is carried out in the salon. Removing such varnishes at home is fraught with damage to the nail plate, and this will affect the growth and strength of the nails. After washing off the usual varnish, for example, with acetone, you can apply a strengthening cuticle oil and vitamin E.
- Get a hygienic manicure. So you give your nails the desired shape, remove excess cuticles and prepare your nails for further tonic procedures. It is better to repeat it once every two weeks.
- Take care of your cuticles. You can massage the matrix zone at home in the morning, afternoon and evening. Use a special oil that is applied to the cuticle, and then rubbed with massaging movements, including into the nail. From such a massage, the blood circulates faster and the nail grows faster.
- Prepare nutrient baths. At home, you can use warm nail baths with sea salt. Dilute a small amount of salt in warm water and soak your nails in it for 10 minutes. You can do this bath once a week. Additionally, the intake of vitamin complexes containing omega-3 and calcium will stimulate growth.
- Watch what you do with your hands. So that your nails grow and do not break, give up bad habits. Do not use them as tools, such as unclenching a ring on a keychain or removing a thick sticker on goods, etc. Wear gloves when washing dishes, washing floors, and when handling household chemicals.
How to strengthen nails
Long nails are not always healthy. They are brittle, thin, with transverse or longitudinal corruption. All this may indicate a deficiency of vitamins or concomitant diseases, says mycologist Shchepleva. Other reasons include improper care, mechanical injuries, frequent coatings or extensions.
To strengthen nails, Dr. Shchepleva recommends using topical preparations that contain collagen: for example, serums. In addition, it is worth regularly applying moisturizers and avoiding anything that destroys the nail plates. In particular, household detergents or alcohol antiseptics.
According to the doctor, biotin, vitamin D3 and zinc are considered effective among systemic preparations. They are selected together with the doctor, taking into account the dosage and concomitant diseases, the expert recalls.
Many vitamins and microelements useful for nails are also found in food. Here are their main sources.
- Legumes, whole grains, dairy products, pork and salmon, broccoli, avocados, yeast and products containing biotin.
- Mushrooms, orange juice, cheese, fish oil, kefir are sources of vitamin D3. It is especially abundant in cod liver oil.
- Oysters, beef, wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, lentils and spinach will help replenish zinc.
- Egg whites, bone broth, gelatin, chicken, beef and seafood in the diet will support the necessary level of collagen in the body.
How to grow nails after an injury
Injuries to the nail plates are different. If this is a blow and a subungual hematoma has formed, then the nail plate will most likely move away from the bed.
© shutterstock
In this case, says Natalya Shchepleva, it is worth removing the detached part with the help of a device so that a cavity does not form, into which the infection will get. If there was a serious injury, which was complicated by inflammation of the finger, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.
What to do after an infection
Restorative procedures begin already in the process of treating the fungus. The cure for the infection is considered achieved when the nail plate has completely grown healthy, the doctor says.
For this, all procedures aimed at nourishing and strengthening nails are used. Among them are baths with sea salt, moisturizing and nourishing creams, serums with collagen, vitamins, taking into account their deficiency in the body. A nutritious diet is also provided.
How not to break your nails
There are a few general rules that experts remind you of:
- Use gloves when cleaning the house or doing anything else with household chemicals.
- In the cold season, keep your hands warm and moisten them in very dry air (especially during the heating season).