On average, fingernails grow about 3.47 millimeters per month, which is roughly 0.1 millimeters per day. Toenails grow more slowly, at about 1.62 millimeters per month
. The growth rate can vary depending on several factors:
- Age: Nail growth tends to slow with age due to reduced blood circulation
- Dominant hand: Nails on the dominant hand grow faster, likely due to more frequent use and minor trauma stimulating blood flow
- Finger: Longer fingers' nails grow faster, and the little finger's nail grows slower than others
- Hormones: Nail growth speeds up during pregnancy and puberty, and slows during lactation
- Season and time of day: Nails grow faster during the summer and daytime
If a fingernail is lost, it typically takes about six months to fully regrow, while toenails can take 12 to 18 months
. In summary, fingernails grow approximately 3.5 mm per month, with variations based on individual and environmental factors. Toenails grow at about half the rate of fingernails