How does a nail grow?
Nail growth depends on several factors, but it can be supported and even sped up with the right treatments. Here’s everything you need to know to achieve a healthy, strong manicure!
The nail matrix: the growth factory
Many people don’t realise that nail growth begins beneath the skin in an area called the matrix. This is partially visible as the pale crescent shape under your nail, known as the lunula. The matrix is the production centre for the cells that form the nail plate. Taking care of this area is crucial for healthy, fast-growing nails. Don’t forget about your cuticles either! These small bits of skin at the nail base protect the matrix.
Keratine: the key to nail growth
You’ve probably heard of keratin before, but what exactly is it? It’s a fibrous protein that forms the main structure of your nails, playing a vital role in their growth and providing them with strength and rigidity. In the nail matrix, cells are infused with keratin, producing a solid, uniform plate that grows consistently—a process known as keratinisation. However, trauma, illnesses, or nutrient deficiencies can disrupt this process, causing ridges or brittle nails.
Nail growth: Good to know
Nails don’t all grow at the same pace. For instance, fingernails grow about 3mm per month, while toenails grow only 1mm per month. Growth also varies depending on the finger: nails grow faster on longer fingers (index, middle, and ring fingers) compared to the thumb and pinky. Nail growth tends to speed up during summer due to increased blood circulation in the matrix. Conversely, growth slows down with age.
The In & Out approach
At Manucurist, we’ve embraced the “In & Out” method to stimulate nail growth and strengthen them. This holistic approach nourishes your nails from the inside while providing targeted external care. The perfect synergy!
In: Nourishing nails from the inside
By adopting a vitamin- and mineral-rich diet
Nails and hair share a common building block: keratin. This means they have similar nutritional needs to grow strong and healthy. Key nutrients include biotin (also known as vitamin B8), which boosts keratin production. Foods rich in biotin, such as eggs (cooked), dairy products, fruits, cereals, nuts, yeast, and offal, are your best friends for nail growth. Iron and zinc are also essential for healthy nail growth.
With targeted supplements
For an even more focused boost, try our specially formulated Nail Boost supplements. Packed with vitamins and active ingredients (brewer’s yeast, magnesium, and bamboo extracts), Nail Boost works from within to strengthen your nails and promote growth. As a bonus, it also benefits your hair! Take it as an intensive treatment (4 capsules a day for one month, then 2 capsules a day for two months) or as a preventative measure (2 capsules daily for two months, repeated 2–3 times a year) to achieve optimal nail growth.
Out: Boosting growth with a treatment base
A treatment base is an absolute must! It has so many benefits: protecting nails, masking imperfections, acting as a treatment tailored to your nail’s needs, and enhancing the application of Green™ polish. Different formulas cater to various nail types, so don’t hesitate to take our online diagnosis to find your ideal base.
Base 5.5 for healthy nails
The Base 5.5 acts as a shield to strengthen and protect healthy nails while helping them grow naturally. With 5 vitamins (A, C, B5, E, F) and 5 plant extracts (aloe vera, ginseng, grape, lemon, and pomegranate), it ensures proper hydration and promotes regular, harmonious growth while offering long-lasting protection.
S.O.S Base for damaged nails
Are your nails brittle, splitting, or dull? Don’t worry—the S.O.S Base is here to save the day! Enriched with vitamins B5 and C, Hexanal, and AHAs, this intensive treatment regenerates damaged nails by strengthening and restructuring the nail plate. Perfect for anyone looking to restore beautiful nails and hands between manicures.
Force Base for soft nails
Soft nails need extra attention and a tailored treatment to regain their strength. Enter the Force Base, enriched with glycolic acid and gluconolactone, a hydrating and soothing agent. This base acts as a hardener, promoting cellular renewal while eliminating dead cells. The result? Stronger nails with healthy growth.
Everyday nail care
Consistency is key when it comes to nail care! A daily routine ensures your nails stay deeply nourished and in optimal condition for healthy growth. Here are the must-have products for your routine:
The Nourishing Nail Pen
A handy care pen you can use anytime, anywhere to revitalise weakened nails. Packed with castor oil, sunflower oil, vitamin E, and pistachio extracts, Manucurist’s Nourishing Nail Pen improves nail and cuticle hydration, enhances elasticity, and promotes growth by boosting blood flow. Your nails will be stronger, more resilient, and less prone to splitting or breaking. Once you try it, you won’t want to go without it!
The Green Oil
Botanical oils have been a beauty secret for millennia. Manucurist’s Green Oil is a vegan formula featuring six nourishing oils, including sweet almond oil, baobab seed oil, walnut oil, passionfruit oil, and coconut oil. This ultra-hydrating blend is a true nutritional powerhouse for nails. Simply massage a drop of Green Oil into your nails and cuticles, and your hands will thank you!
Active Glow™ & Shine Treatment Polishes
While they’re not growth boosters, the Active™ treatment polishes deeply nourish your nails, promoting healthier growth. Enriched with AHAs and sweet almond oil, Active Glow™ strengthens the nail plate and helps maintain natural hydration. Bonus: its natural rosy glow adds a hint of colour. Try Active Glow™ Raspberry for a soft pink hue or Active Glow™ Blueberry for an intense pink shade.
With Active™ Shine, you’ll enjoy a hydrating and antioxidant-rich formula featuring beetroot extracts, Hexanal, and AHAs. This perfecting treatment polish strengthens your nails in just one step while adding a magical sparkle. ✨
So, there you have it—beautiful nails start with taking care of yourself. Treat yourself and love your nails 💅♥️
