How long does it take for a toenail to grow back?

The Toenail is an essential part of our body, even though we don't see any usage of them. But they are necessary to keep our toe tips safe and harm-free. So it is necessary to keep them safe and take care of them. But sometimes, problems or accidents happen that cause the Toenail to split or break from the toe. So the question arrives, How long does it take for a toenail to grow back?

It usually takes around 14-18 months for the Toenail to completely grow back to average size if it has split from the toe. But in case it is broken partially, then you should know the toenail growth is about 1.62 mm per month or the 1/8th part of a centimeter.

Today we will try to impart knowledge on toenails, toenail breakage, how you can take care of toenails, and some other general queries about Toenails! So let's get started!

What causes Toenail Split or Breakage?

Toenails are made of Keratin, a type of protein. The front part of the Toenail is made of dead body cells; that's why you don't feel any pain after cutting the edge of the Toenail. But the nail bed consists of living tissue which receives nutrition from the bloodstream. That's why you feel pain when you cut an extra nail. 

So the question arises what causes Toenail Split or break?

Actually, there can be different reasons for toenail breakage. The most common of them is injury. When something accidentally is dropped off with the foot or the foot is stubbed with something, it causes the nail to split from the toe bed. 

Some other reasons can be – 

• Fungal nail infections, which result in fungus invading the nail bed, which causes Toenail to split. 
• In case the Toenail is medically removed and without any extra harm on the nail bed.
• Due to a skin disease, Psoriasis also affects the nail and results in breakage and nail discoloration. 
• Chemotherapy.
• Long-time illness or malnutrition. 

How long does it take for a toenail to grow back?

As mentioned earlier, if your nail completely splits off the nail bed, it may take around 12-14 months for the nail to grow back fully. But if you have nail breakage, it will grow at 1/8th of cm in a month, or precisely at a speed of 1.62 mm. 

You may feel surprised knowing the fact that fingernails grow at a much higher rate. They grow at a rate of 3.47 mm per month. This means that if you lose a fingernail, it will take 3-4 months to grow back. 

Why do toenails have a slow growth rate?

As mentioned above, the growth rate of toenails is much slower than hand nails and fingernails. It is believed that toenails are thickly keratinized, and it takes more time to layer up the Keratin to make nails. 

Another reason is the blood flow to nails. The toenails are farthest from the heart, and the tissue receives less blood flow, which results in slow toenail growth.  

What things can you do to improve toenail growth?

So now, you may think about what things can be done to increase the toenail growth rate or help in toenail growth. Actually, you cannot increase Toenails with any method, but yes, you can ensure the safety and cleanliness of growing toenails. 

So here are some things or methods you can adopt to ensure toenail growth:-

• Use a cold compress or ice pack for 20 minutes after losing your toenail and keep that ice pack on your Toenail, wrapping it with a cloth. 
• You can even soak your foot in saltwater for 20 minutes, 2-3 times. And then apply a fresh bandage every time. 
• Use a Vitamin E ointment oil, as it is helpful in nail growth. 
• Keep your foot elevated, so that swelling or bruising cannot happen. 
• Either take biotin or protein supplement, which results in cell growth. 
• Keep the nail bed dry and covered as the skin is sensitive, and any further damage can stop the growth of the Toenail. 
• Apply antibiotic ointments to avoid infections or fungus.
• For the first three days after nail split, avoid contact with water.
• In case of partial damage, do not remove the remaining nail. 

So this is everything you can do after you have a nail split or damage. Ensure proper cleanliness and safety.

Read Also: How much does it cost to remove acrylic nails

What should you do in case you see infection in the split toenail area?

In that case, it is best to visit a nail expert or dermatologist. Because they can stop the fungus or infection from spreading on other nails. Also, you should see a dermatologist if you feel pain for a long time, oozing, and discoloration in the area.

It is not recommended to treat the infection by yourself or taking medicines without a prescription. 

What happens if the Toenail grows back ingrown?

In case you have split Toenail. And now your Toenail is growing back but with the old issue of ingrowing. Can it be prevented earlier before full toenail growth, or will it grow in the same manner?

If the Toenail is ingrowning, then it is best to take a doctor's help not to cause pain in the future. But you should not tamper it by yourself, because – 

• You may cut excess parts, and it may start bleeding. 
• You may use the non-sterile instrument, which will cause infection. 
• You may feel immense pain. 

So do not try fixing an ingrown nail when the Toenail is growing. 

What to do in case 3/4th Toenail is detached, and a small part is remaining?

If 3/4th part of your nail is detached due to any injury and a small part is remaining, it is best not to touch it and keep it in that place. If you try to detach that part also, hoping to grow a new Toenail, it may cause infection and immense pain. 

The remaining part will help in faster toenail growth as it is embedded in the back part of the toe, and it will provide a base for further toenail growth. 

But in case the Toenail is bothering you, then visit a dermatologist to get it removed.

Read Also: can you get a pedicure if you have toenail fungus

Products to keep care of Toenail and Split Toenail!

Here are some products that you can use to take care of your split toenail or normal toenail-

Bottom Line

So this was all about Toenail. Try to take care of hand nails and feet nails in the best way possible, and in case you see any issue, visit a dermatologist as soon as possible. Tell us what you think about our article, ‘How long does it take for a toenail to grow back?”

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Thank you for reading!