How do fingernails grow? All you need to know to keep your nails healthy

Nails are basically flat keratin plates that allow humans to use their fingers. These plates protect the fingers and toes tips from being cut or scraped in daily activities. Nails are necessary for many hand manipulations, they act as a counterforce and provide more sensory input. Nails also help us grab and climb. 

What are fingernails made of?

The nail is a dense plate of transparent keratin. The keratin protein in the nail begins the growth process in a pocket under the skin called nail root. The nail root produces new cells all the time and forces old cells to form the nail plate. They appear pink because of the blood vessels underneath. 
The stratum corneum of the nail is similar to the hair or the outer layer of human skin. When nails and hair appear above the skin, the cells are already dead, so we do not feel pain when we cut them. This process is completed by the cuticle, which is a thin sliver of skin that protects the nail root from germs and water penetration.
The nail structure is divided into three main parts: root, nail bed, and nail plate. Here are the different parts your fingernails are made of:

• The matrix is also known as the root of the nail. The matrix is constantly creating new cells. These new cells make it possible for the older ones to clump together and push upwards through the skin. In such a way, our nails grow about 1 mm per week.
• The cuticle: Perhaps you have heard of other parts of the nail such as the cuticle. This is a skin area where your nail grows from your finger. It protects the root from germs and wet penetration. The soft skin on the sides and under the tip of the nail is called perionychium and hyponychium; it also provides a proof barrier.
• The nail plate is firmly attached to the nail bed. On the state of the nail plate, you can determine the condition of your body's health. Its normal colour is pink, the plate should be even with shallow longitudinal grooves. 

What do your nails say about your health?

Changes in your nails may indicate a lack of vitamins or minerals, damage to the nail' component, or illness. According to registered nutritionists, there are a few most common questions people have about their nails.

1. Why do fingernails split? Splitting nails are the most common problem for fingernails. This is most often caused by frequent contact with water and detergents. Water affects nails as well as skin making them dry. But there are other reasons that cause finger nails to split. This can be a lack of minerals such as iron, a lack of vitamins B, D, and poor absorption of calcium, or it can signal diseases such as psoriasis. Look at the toenails, if they also split then this is hardly caused by external factors. 
2. What causes ridges on fingernails. Most common are longitudinal and usually harmless ridges in the fingers. Transverse ridges that may run across the fingernail are known as Beau’s line. If you notice ridges along with other symptoms like a rough or brittle nail, it could be an indication of a medical disorder or lack of certain substances in the body. Some conditions may cause the nails to stop growing.
3. What do white spots on fingernails mean? White spots can sometimes occur when the nail bed is damaged, injured to the nail matrix or nail plate. Nail biting and harsh manicuring are the most common causes. White spots, also known as leukonychia, can be caused by poisoning or drugs. These are rare causes and can include chemotherapy or heavy metal poisoning. Note that white spots and nails are signs of an injury that has occurred or started several months ago.
4. Why are my fingernails yellow? Smoking is the widest reason why your nails turn yellow. Wearing red nail polish without a base coat can also cause nail yellowing. You may not like this, but it is not a threat. At the same time, yellow nails can indicate more serious diseases inside your body, fungus,  or nail infections.
5. Why are my fingernails blue? Your lips and fingernails can turn blue when you are exposed to cold temperatures. Because of the narrowing pathways, it is difficult for oxygen-rich blood to reach your nails. Blue fingers are the body's normal response to cold temperatures. If you don't have enough oxygen in your bloodstream, blue nails can be a sign of a condition known as cyanosis. Cyanosis is not a disease but a sign that you have some kind of illness and it's time for you to visit a physician.

How to make finger nails grow faster?

There are many answers to how fast do finger nails grow. On average, nails grow back about 3.5 mm per month. Studies have shown that people who use their fingers often have faster-growing fingernails than those who don't. Dominant hand fingers tend to grow faster than the other hand. And by drinking water regularly, you can help your fingernails grow faster. 
If you've wondered what makes fingernails grow fast, there are many different methods you can try. To make your fingernails strengthen it is enough to adhere to simple rules on nail care. Keeping a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and keratine is key to your nails health. Moisturize your nails and cuticles regularly. Avoid excessive water exposure and wear latex gloves. Do not use harsh detergents or nail polish removers when possible. This is enough to keep your nails looking good. Turn to a therapist if more serious symptoms.
In addition to growth, it is important that the nails do not wear out. A clear coat of nail polish can protect your nails from damage. You may use a nail strengthener to help your nails grow faster. These products are easy to apply and remove with a simple nail polish remover. 
For those who are worried about their nail growth, consider getting a professional to do the job for you. You can get the results you want by visiting a mobile manicurist without the high cost.