Have you ever wondered what your nails are made of, why fingernails grow faster than toenails, and what exactly is their function? If yes, then this article — as part of our ‘Know Your Body’ series — will answer these questions related to nails and many more. So let’s get started.
“Nails are hard, protective coverings made of a protein called keratin,” Dr Swapna Priya, Consultant Dermatologist CARE Hospitals Hi-Tec City, Hyderabad told indianexpress.com.She added that they are composed of dead cells that are tightly packed together. “Nails are located at the ends of our fingers and toes and play a role in protecting the sensitive tips of our digits,” she continued.
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Are nails lifeless?
While nails are composed of dead cells, they are not entirely lifeless. “The nail plate, which is the visible part of the nail, is formed by specialised cells at the base of the nail — known as the matrix. The matrix produces new cells that push the older ones forward, causing the nail to grow. As the cells move forward, they harden and become compacted, forming the hard surface of the nail plate,” explained Dr Priya.
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What is the function of nails?
Nails serve several important functions; Dr Priya shares them as:
1. Nails provide support and structure to the fingertips, allowing us to grasp and manipulate objects more effectively.
2. Nails also enhance our sense of touch by increasing the sensitivity of our fingertips.
3. Nails can act as a tool for scratching, picking up small items, and performing delicate tasks.
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4. Additionally, nails can be used for self-expression through nail art and decoration.
But why do fingernails grow faster than toenails?
Dr Smriti Naswa Singh, Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetic Dermatologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund said that the average nail growth rate is 3 mm per month for fingers, and 1.62 mm per month for toes.
Explaining the possible reasons for it, Dr Singh added that generally, the fingernails are “subjected to more trauma (through the fine movements of the fingers, and for some people nail biting too), compared to toenails”.
There is a possible correlation between frequent trauma, functionality, blood circulation, and evolutionary processes for the difference in the growth rate of hand nails and toe nails. (Pic source: Freepik)
“The trauma-induced blood and nutrient circulation increases, hence the growth rate is faster. Certain studies suggest that the dominant hand has a faster growth rate than the non-dominant hand, and this is also because of more likelihood of trauma to that hand’s nails,” she shared.
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Concurring, Dr Praveen Bharadwaj, Consultant – Dermatology, Manipal Hospital, Whitefield, Bangalore said: “For reasons poorly understood, fingernails grow faster than the toe nails. There is a possible correlation between frequent trauma, functionality, blood circulation, and evolutionary processes for the difference”.
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Why is it important to look after nails?
It is important to look after your nails for various reasons. Proper nail care can help maintain their strength and prevent them from becoming brittle or prone to breakage. Keeping your nails clean and well-groomed also contributes to overall hygiene and can help prevent the accumulation of dirt, bacteria, and fungi that could lead to infections.
“If we don’t take care we can end up with an infection on the nail and skin surrounding it, which can cause Paronychia, abscess, nail death or Onycholysis, or Nail Dystrophy as well,” shared Dr Singh.
Proper nail care can help maintain their strength and prevent them from becoming brittle or prone to breakage. (Pic source: Freepik)
Ways to look after your nails
Here are some tips to maintain nail hygiene, as shared by Dr Priya.
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1. Keep your nails clean by washing them regularly with mild soap and water.
2. Trim your nails regularly, cutting them straight across and smoothing the edges with a nail file.
3. Avoid biting your nails or picking at the cuticles, as this can lead to damage and infections.
4. Moisturise your nails and cuticles with a nourishing hand cream or cuticle oil to prevent dryness.
5. Use gloves when performing household chores or activities that may expose your nails to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
6. Avoid using your nails as tools to open or scrape objects, as this can cause them to weaken or break.
7. Be cautious at nail salons and ensure that hygiene practices, such as sterilized tools and clean environments, are followed to prevent infections.
ALSO READ | Know Your Body: Why wiggling your toes is extremely important for blood circulation
Can nails serve as an indicator of deficiencies and diseases?
Nails serve as windows for systemic diseases. “Nail changes can indicate skin conditions, metabolic disorders, and infections. They help in faster and early diagnosis of diseases,” shared Dr Bharadwaj.
Dr Singh added, “Nail changes like white ridges, black dots, transverse cut lines, easy chipping off nails, and swelling of surrounding skin are the earliest markers of internal diseases like nutritional deficiencies including zinc, iron, calcium, biotin, biabetes, heart disease, etc. so they shouldn’t be taken lightly and shown to a dermatologist for proper check-up and prompt diagnosis”.
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