Your nails are a lot more complex than you may actually think. In this blog post, you will learn some facts that will leave you amazed. Let’s see them.
1.Nails are made of a protein called keratin. Did you know that the strong and flexible structure of nails is due to the presence of keratin? Keratin is the same protein that is found in our hair and outer layer of the skin, providing strength and protection.
2.Nails can reveal signs of health issues. Your nails can act as a window into your overall health. Changes in nail colour, texture, or shape can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions.
3.Fingernails grow faster than toenails. Fingernails grow at a rate of about 2.5 mm each month. That means it takes about 3 to 6 months to completely replace a fingernail. Toenails, instead, grow only about 1mm a month. That’s why it takes more than a year (12-18 months) to replace a toenail.
4.Nails grow faster in summer than in winter. There are a few different theories. One theory is that people absorb more nutrients during the summer, as they are more likely to drink a lot of water on a hot summer day. Another theory is that since sunlight exposure causes your body to make Vitamin D, the increase in Vitamin D results in your nails growing at a faster rate.
5.Men’s nails grow faster than women’s (except during pregnancy). Men’s fingernails grow faster than women’s nails. But women’s fingernails grow faster during pregnancy due to hormones.
6.Nails have a purpose. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, nails serve a practical purpose. They help us with gripping, picking up small objects, and even scratching an itch.
7.Nails keep growing after death. It may sound eerie, but nails can continue to grow even after death. This phenomenon, known as postmortem nail growth, is caused by the dehydration and contraction of the surrounding tissues.
8.Stress can affect the growth of your nails. Stress is one factor that will inhibit your nail growth. Don’t worry, however, your nails will grow again.
9.Fingernails need blood to survive. Blood flow is essential for nail health and growth as this is how nails get their key nutrients. Your fingernails can temporarily stop growing when there is an injury preventing them from getting proper blood flow.
10.Fingernails cannot sweat. Your nail bed does not contain any sweat glands; so, it's impossible for your fingernails to sweat.