Your nails are the protectors of the skin on your fingers and toes. Normal nail growth can be estimated, but this is far from an exact science. The American Academy of Dermatology points out that how quickly your nails grow depends on more than just one factor. Hormonal fluctuations, certain medical conditions and even your age can affect normal nail growth, says the AAD.
How Nails Grow
The primary component in your nails is a protein called keratin, which is also found in the rest of your skin and hair, explains the American Academy of Dermatology. Special cells in your fingers and toes are located in the nail "matrix," the half-moon area located underneath your cuticles. As new cells develop in the matrix, older ones grow out--these older cells are what makes up your fingernails and toenails.
Nail Growth
The fingernails of the average adult grow faster than toenails, according to Harvard Medical School. Fingernails grow an average of 3 mm each month--around one-tenth of an inch. Toenails, on the other hand, grow out at between one-third or one-half the rate of fingernails. If you lost a toenail, it would take between 12 and 18 months for a new one to grow out completely. Fingernails, on the other hand, take between four to six months.
Fascinating Facts
The AAD states that there are a number of factors that affect nail growth. Your nails grow faster in the summer than in the colder months. You'll also notice more rapid nail growth on your dominant hand. Children's fingernails grow faster than those of adults, and men's nails grow faster than those of women--except during old age and sometimes during pregnancy. According to Harvard Medical School, your nail growth may slow down after you stop lactating--if you're a woman--and after chemotherapy treatments. People who suffer from paralysis, decreased circulation or malnutrition may also notice slower nail growth.
Nail Myths
If you eat a healthy diet, it's extremely unlikely that soft, brittle, splitting nails are caused by a vitamin or mineral deficiency, says MayoClinic..com The main cause of weakened nails is the repeated wetting and drying they sustain, such as when perform household chores that include washing dishes, mopping and other types of "wet" cleaning, says the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Another nail myth is that eating gelatin or soaking your nails in gelatin will result in nails that are longer and stronger, according to MayoClinic.com.
Ask Doctor
Grow stronger, hardier nails by wearing rubber gloves when you perform housework. Limit use of nail polish remover to once a week, and choose a brand that's acetone-free, advises MayoClinic.com. Clip and file your nails regularly, and moisturize them daily. However, keep in mind that if you notice extreme changes in your nails, this could be a sign that you have a medical condition that needs to be treated. See your doctor if you notice pits, horizontal lines or grooves, discoloration, curling nails and nails that separate from the nail bed.
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