Fingernail growth is a fascinating topic. For example, have you ever wondered why your toenails seem to grow at a slower rate than your fingernails? Or why nails on one hand seem to grow faster?
The science behind fingernail growth
It’s important to understand the anatomy of nails. Nails are made of layers of a protein called keratin. The area of skin beneath the nail is called the nail bed. Blood vessels and nerves run through the nail bed, providing nourishment to the nail.
Toenails vs fingernails
So why do toenails grow more slowly than fingernails? Well, toenails receive less blood flow than fingernails. The blood vessels that supply the nail bed with nutrients and oxygen are smaller in the feet than in the hands. This means toenails don’t have access to the resources they need to grow as quickly. This is also why toenails are more prone to fungal infections than fingernails. The reduced blood flow makes it more difficult for the body to fight off infection.
Growth factors
Another factor that affects the growth rate of nails is the amount of physical activity we engage in. Research has shown that physical activity can increase blood flow to the nail bed. This can lead to faster nail growth. An active person who spends a lot of time on their feet may have toenails that grow faster than someone who spends most of their time sitting.
Age and health also impact nail growth. For example, as we age, our nail growth rate tends to slow down. Certain medical conditions (such as hypothyroidism or psoriasis) can also cause nails to grow more slowly or become brittle and prone to breakage.
The growth rate of nails can even vary depending on the season. Nail growth is faster in the summer than in the winter. Researchers found that nail growth rates were highest in August and lowest in February. This suggests that sunlight exposure and changes in temperature may play a role.
Source: “Why do toenails grow more slowly than fingernails?” — Clinical Correlations