Nail growth is a gradual process influenced by various factors such as age, health conditions, and even the season.

If you’ve recently chipped a nail or are dealing with a condition that leads to fragile nails, it’s important to note that there’s no guaranteed quick fix for growing your nails back overnight.

Nevertheless, you can take measures to fortify your nails, which may help enhance their growth. We consulted experts to gather several dermatologist-approved strategies for fostering strong, healthy nails.

How quickly do nails grow?

Dr. Soraya Azzawi, MD, FAAD, a certified dermatologist and clinical instructor at UCLA, states that healthy fingernails grow by about three and a half millimeters monthly.

In contrast, toenails grow at a slower pace, about one and a half millimeters per month according to Dr. Chris Sayed, MD, a clinical professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Dermatology Department.

If you lose a nail, expect it to take several months to regenerate fully, with fingernails generally requiring around six months, while toenails can take from one year to a year and a half to grow back, as noted by Azzawi.

What influences nail growth?

Nail growth rates can vary significantly among individuals. Age is a key factor, as noted by Sayed, who states that older adults often experience slower nail growth compared to children.

Hormonal changes also affect the growth rate. For instance, Azzawi mentions that heightened levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy can accelerate nail growth.

Nails typically grow quicker on your dominant hand, according to Azzawi. Increased use of this hand leads to a higher likelihood of nail trauma, prompting the body to send more blood and nutrients to the area, potentially speeding up growth, as explained by Healthline.

Additionally, seasonal changes can influence nail growth, with faster growth noted during warmer months, though the difference is relatively slight, according to Sayed.

Individuals with weakened immune systems may face challenges with nail growth, as Azzawi points out. Chronic conditions that can impact nail health include psoriasis, endocarditis, lupus, kidney disease, thyroid issues, and liver disease, as reported by Healthline.

How can I enhance my nail growth?

If you are generally healthy, without issues like malnutrition or a compromised immune system, Azzawi mentions that there aren’t effective methods to significantly accelerate nail growth. However, reinforcing your nails can reduce breakage and ensure healthy growth.

Regular nail grooming and trims play a vital role in maintaining nail health. To foster strong nails, Azzawi recommends:

• Steering clear of allergens and irritants, like cleaning agents and solvents
• Wearing gloves during wet tasks or chores
• Hydrating after washing hands or using hand sanitizers
• Limiting the use of nail gels or acrylics, which can gradually degrade nail surfaces

For those with brittle nails, biotin (vitamin B7) supplements may provide benefits in strengthening nails, as highlighted by Azzawi. Some preliminary studies suggest that biotin can enhance the firmness, thickness, and strength of weak nails.

Always consult your doctor before starting biotin supplements for brittle nails, advises Sayed.