how fast do nails grow

2 hours ago 3
Nature

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