How to Grow Nails Faster Naturally: Expert Tips & Remedies for Stronger Nails

Heahlth

17 May, 2025

Nails are often considered a symbol of personal grooming and hygiene, but growing them out can sometimes feel like watching paint dry—slow, frustrating, and seemingly endless. Whether you’re prepping for a big event or simply want to maintain healthy hands, learning how to grow nails faster can save you a lot of hassle. Fortunately, there are science-backed tips, lifestyle changes, and some nifty natural remedies that can give your nails the boost they need.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything from daily habits and diet changes to natural treatments and salon secrets. So if you're ready to stop hiding your hands and start flaunting strong, long nails, keep reading!

Understanding Nail Growth

Anatomy of a Fingernail

Before diving into how to grow nails faster, let’s first understand what a fingernail is made of. Nails are composed of a tough protective protein called keratin, the same material found in your hair and the outer layer of your skin. Here’s a quick breakdown of the parts of your nail:

Nail plate – The visible hard part of the nail.
Nail bed – The skin beneath the nail plate.
Cuticle – The tissue that overlaps your nail plate and the base of your nail.
Lunula – The whitish, half-moon shape at the base.
Matrix – The area under the skin where new nail cells are produced.

Understanding these parts helps in knowing where and how to focus your care efforts to promote nail growth. For example, damaging your nail matrix can seriously affect how your nails grow.

How Fast Do Nails Naturally Grow?

On average, fingernails grow about 3.5 millimeters per month—that’s around 0.1 mm a day. That might not sound like much, but over time, it adds up. Toenails grow even slower—about 1.6 mm a month.

However, several variables can impact this growth rate:

Age: Nails grow faster in younger individuals.
Season: Nails often grow quicker in the summer.
Genetics: Some people naturally have faster-growing nails.
Dominant hand: Nails on your dominant hand may grow faster due to increased use and blood flow.

Understanding these natural limitations helps set realistic expectations while applying nail growth strategies.

Factors That Affect Nail Growth Rate

Let’s face it—some nails grow like weeds, while others seem stuck at stub length forever. Several internal and external factors can speed up or slow down nail growth:

Nutrition: Deficiencies in iron, biotin, or protein can hinder growth.
Health conditions: Thyroid disorders, circulatory issues, and hormonal imbalances may affect nail development.
Stress levels: Chronic stress can impede bodily functions, including nail growth.
Injuries or trauma: Repeated damage to the nail or cuticle area can slow growth.

If you’re serious about speeding up your nail growth, addressing these root factors is just as important as topical treatments.

Daily Nail Care Habits

Keep Your Nails Moisturized

One of the simplest but most effective ways to encourage nail growth is consistent hydration. Just like skin, nails can become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage when they lack moisture.

What to use:

Cuticle oil or almond oil: These penetrate deeply into the nail bed.
Hand cream: Choose one with shea butter or vitamin E.
Petroleum jelly: Excellent for sealing in moisture overnight.

How to apply:

Gently massage the oil into your cuticles and nails before bed.
Wear cotton gloves at night to lock in the moisture.
Reapply after washing your hands during the day.

Hydrated nails are more flexible, less likely to split, and more likely to grow out strong and steady.

Trim and File Regularly

Counterintuitive as it may seem, trimming your nails can actually help them grow faster in the long run. It prevents snags and breakage that set you back.

Best practices:

Trim once a week: Use a nail clipper or manicure scissors.
File in one direction: Sawing back and forth causes micro-tears.
Round the edges: This reduces the chances of your nail getting caught and breaking.

By maintaining a good shape and avoiding rough edges, your nails are less likely to snap and more likely to grow out uniformly.

Avoid Biting Your Nails

Nail-biting isn’t just a nervous habit—it’s a nail growth killer. It weakens the nail plate, damages the cuticle, and introduces harmful bacteria that could lead to infections.

Tips to stop:

Apply a bitter-tasting nail polish.
Keep nails painted or manicured—you’ll be less tempted to ruin them.
Identify triggers and replace the habit with healthier alternatives like stress balls or chewing gum.

Every time you bite your nails, you’re undoing days or even weeks of growth. Kick the habit, and you’ll see dramatic improvements in nail length and strength.

Nutrition for Nail Growth

Vitamins That Promote Nail Growth

Your diet plays a major role in how quickly and how strong your nails grow. Specific vitamins are particularly crucial for nail health and growth.

Biotin

Biotin (Vitamin B7) is the superstar of nail vitamins. It helps improve the structure of keratin, which makes up your nails.

Sources: Eggs, almonds, sweet potatoes, spinach, and oats.
Supplements: Many take biotin supplements in doses ranging from 2,500 to 10,000 mcg per day to boost nail strength and thickness.

Biotin deficiency can lead to brittle, thin, or splitting nails, so ensuring you get enough of it is key.

Vitamin E and C

Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties that protect nail cells from damage. Vitamin C, on the other hand, is essential for collagen production, which strengthens the nail structure.

Vitamin E sources: Sunflower seeds, avocados, spinach.
Vitamin C sources: Oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli.

These vitamins not only support nail growth but also promote healthy skin and cuticles, setting the foundation for faster growth.

Importance of a Balanced Diet

Eating a wide variety of whole foods ensures you're getting all the nutrients needed for nail health. A balanced diet fuels your body with:

Proteins: Keratin is a protein, so consuming lean meats, legumes, and tofu helps support nail structure.
Zinc: Found in chickpeas, seeds, and nuts—essential for tissue growth and repair.
Iron: Low iron levels can cause nails to become concave or ridged.

Skipping meals, restrictive diets, or poor nutrition can directly impact the growth and strength of your nails. Think of your plate as your nail's best growth serum—colorful, diverse, and nutrient-rich.

Foods to Include for Stronger Nails

If you're serious about growing your nails faster, your kitchen might hold more answers than your beauty shelf. Here are some power-packed foods:

Eggs – Rich in protein and biotin.
Salmon – High in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.
Leafy greens – Spinach and kale for iron and calcium.
Nuts and seeds – Almonds and sunflower seeds for vitamin E and magnesium.
Beans and lentils – Great source of biotin, iron, and zinc.

Eating these consistently will not only speed up nail growth but also improve the appearance and strength of your nails.

Natural Remedies to Boost Nail Growth

Coconut Oil Treatment

Coconut oil is more than just a beauty buzzword—it’s a miracle treatment for nails too. Its deep moisturizing properties help strengthen the cuticle and prevent nail breakage.

How to use it:

Warm a tablespoon of coconut oil.
Massage it into your nails and cuticles for 5-10 minutes.
Leave it on overnight for best results.

Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, coconut oil improves circulation to the nail bed, which can support faster and healthier nail growth.

Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Soak

This combo may sound like a salad dressing, but it’s actually a potent nail treatment. Lemon juice lightens stains, while olive oil deeply nourishes the nail bed.

Recipe:

Mix 1 tbsp of lemon juice with 2 tbsp of olive oil.
Warm the mixture slightly and soak your nails for 10-15 minutes.
Repeat 3-4 times a week.

This treatment not only boosts growth but also makes your nails shinier and more resilient.

Garlic and Onion Extracts

It may not smell like roses, but garlic and onion have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that promote healthy nails.

Garlic:

Crush a clove of garlic and apply the juice to your nails.
Leave it on for 10 minutes before washing off.

Onion:

Blend an onion and apply the juice using a cotton ball.
Rinse thoroughly after 15 minutes.

These natural treatments help in improving blood flow to the cuticle area and combatting any underlying infections that might hinder growth.

Lifestyle Tips for Healthier Nails

Protect Your Nails from Damage

Daily wear and tear can wreak havoc on your nails. Whether it’s tapping on keyboards or doing household chores, protecting your nails is a crucial step.

Simple steps to avoid damage:

Avoid using your nails as tools (e.g., opening cans).
Don’t peel off polish—use remover.
Always wear gloves when cleaning or washing dishes.

Think of your nails as delicate glass—they may look hard, but one wrong move can cause serious breakage.

Stay Hydrated

You’ve heard it a thousand times—drink more water. But did you know dehydration affects your nails too?

Dry nails are more prone to peeling and cracking.
Staying hydrated helps flush toxins from the body, supporting nail health.

Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Herbal teas and water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumber can also help meet your hydration goals.

Use Gloves During Household Chores

Your nails endure a lot during chores, especially when dealing with harsh cleaning products. Wearing gloves is a simple but powerful way to shield them.

Benefits of wearing gloves:

Protects from chemicals that dry and weaken nails.
Prevents prolonged exposure to water which can soften and damage nails.
Keeps your manicure intact for longer.

It’s a small habit that can make a huge difference in maintaining healthy nail growth.

Nail Growth Myths Debunked

Cutting Nails Makes Them Grow Faster?

One of the most common myths is that trimming your nails makes them grow faster. The truth? Not quite.

Trimming helps prevent breakage and keeps nails healthy, but it doesn't accelerate growth.
What you’re really seeing is healthier, less damaged nails that appear to grow faster.

So yes, trimming helps maintain nail health, but the rate at which your nails grow is controlled by internal factors like nutrition and overall health.

White Spots Mean Vitamin Deficiency?

Another popular myth is that white spots on nails are a clear sign of calcium or zinc deficiency. While that can be true in rare cases, most of the time, it’s just minor trauma to the nail matrix.

Banging your nail or pressing too hard can disrupt nail formation.
These spots often grow out naturally with the nail over time.

If you consistently see white spots on all your nails, it’s worth checking with a healthcare provider—but in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.

Over-the-Counter Products for Nail Growth

Nail Hardeners

Nail hardeners can be a game-changer when it comes to strengthening weak, brittle nails that seem to break before they grow. These products work by reinforcing the nail’s natural keratin structure, reducing the likelihood of splits and tears.

Types of nail hardeners:

Formaldehyde-based: Effective but can be harsh if overused.
Formaldehyde-free: Gentler for sensitive nails, often enriched with proteins or calcium.

How to use:

Apply 1-2 times a week as a base coat or standalone product.
Don’t overuse—too frequent application can lead to brittle nails.

Look for hardeners that contain strengthening ingredients like keratin, calcium, nylon fibers, or vitamin E. Remember, they don’t make your nails grow faster directly, but they create a stronger environment for growth.

Growth Serums and Oils

Growth serums and oils are packed with nutrients that penetrate the nail bed and cuticles, stimulating growth and improving overall nail health.

Top ingredients to look for:

Biotin – Promotes keratin production.
Castor oil – Rich in ricinoleic acid for increased blood circulation.
Jojoba oil – Mimics skin’s natural oils, ideal for hydration.
Vitamin E oil – Repairs damaged nail cells.

How to apply:

Use a dropper or brush to apply directly to the nail and cuticle area.
Massage gently for 2-3 minutes daily for best results.

These products are perfect for people dealing with thin, peeling nails who want a boost without diving into professional treatments.

Nail Salon Treatments That Help

Regular Manicures

Getting regular manicures doesn’t just keep your nails looking pretty—it can actually encourage nail growth. When done correctly, manicures can promote better nail hygiene and stimulate blood circulation around your nail bed.

Benefits:

Removes dead skin and cuticles, reducing blockages in nail growth.
Encourages consistent shaping and maintenance.
Allows for early detection of nail problems.

Be sure to choose salons that follow proper hygiene practices and use high-quality tools. Poorly done manicures can cause infections and set your nail growth journey back significantly.

Paraffin Wax Treatments

Paraffin wax is often offered as a luxurious add-on at nail salons, but it’s more than just a pampering indulgence. This warm wax locks in moisture and improves circulation, both of which are essential for nail growth.

How it works:

Your hands are dipped in warm paraffin wax.
They're wrapped in plastic and warm towels to retain heat.
After 10-15 minutes, the wax is peeled off, revealing soft, deeply hydrated skin.

Benefits for nails:

Softens cuticles and skin, making nail care easier.
Boosts blood flow to the nail matrix.
Reduces brittleness by keeping nails hydrated.

It’s a once-a-week treat that can make a significant difference in nail health over time.

When to See a Dermatologist

Persistent Nail Problems

If you’ve tried everything under the sun—supplements, oils, proper trimming—and your nails still refuse to grow or constantly break, it might be time to see a dermatologist. Persistent nail issues can be signs of underlying health problems.

Warning signs:

Nails that split vertically or horizontally.
Unusual color changes (yellowing, dark spots).
Pits or ridges appearing on the nail surface.

Dermatologists can perform tests to check for conditions like anemia, thyroid disorders, or psoriasis—all of which can impact nail health and growth.

Nail Fungus or Infection Signs

Fungal infections can seriously sabotage your nail growth. If left untreated, they can cause thickening, discoloration, and even permanent nail damage.

Common symptoms:

Yellow, brown, or white discoloration.
Brittle or crumbling edges.
Foul odor or discharge.

Antifungal creams, oral medications, or laser treatments may be prescribed, depending on the severity. If you suspect an infection, don’t wait—early treatment is crucial to prevent long-term damage.

Do’s and Don’ts for Faster Nail Growth

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s face it—sometimes, we’re our nails’ worst enemies. Avoiding these common mistakes can go a long way in supporting faster nail growth:

Overusing acrylics or gel manicures: These can weaken your natural nails.
Skipping base coat: Direct polish contact can stain and damage nails.
Neglecting hydration: Dry nails = breakage.
Using nails as tools: Don’t open cans or scratch surfaces with them.

Bad habits can reverse weeks of progress in a single day. Awareness is the first step in breaking them.

Smart Nail Practices to Adopt

Want faster nail growth? Adopt these habits and you’ll start seeing results in no time:

Apply cuticle oil daily – It promotes hydration and blood circulation.
Take a nail supplement – Especially if your diet is lacking key nutrients.
Buff your nails once a week – Helps stimulate blood flow and smoothens ridges.
Use nail-friendly polish removers – Avoid acetone; opt for oil-based formulas.

Little by little, these changes add up. And once you make them part of your daily routine, your nails will thank you with better strength, shine, and yes—faster growth.

Conclusion

Growing your nails faster isn’t just about slapping on some miracle oil and hoping for the best. It’s a full-body, holistic approach that starts from within—literally. From eating a well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins to treating your hands with care, every little habit adds up to a big difference over time. You’ve learned how daily routines, hydration, proper trimming, and even pampering treatments like paraffin wax can enhance nail growth.

The truth is, there’s no instant fix. Nail growth takes consistency, care, and a little bit of patience. But the good news? With the right practices, you’ll not only grow your nails faster but also healthier and stronger than ever before. So take care of your nails today, and in a few weeks, you’ll be showing off those beautiful tips with pride.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to grow nails in 3 days?

Realistically, you can’t grow nails significantly in just three days, but you can help improve their condition and reduce breakage. Use coconut oil or castor oil for deep hydration, take biotin supplements, stay well-hydrated, and protect your nails from physical stress.

Does Vaseline help nails grow?

Yes, Vaseline (petroleum jelly) locks in moisture and keeps the nail bed and cuticles hydrated. While it won’t directly make nails grow faster, it helps create the right environment for healthy growth and prevents breakage.

Can toothpaste help nail growth?

No scientific evidence supports the idea that toothpaste helps nails grow. While it may make your nails appear cleaner or shinier due to mild abrasives, it doesn't contribute to actual growth.

What causes nails to grow slowly?

Several factors can slow down nail growth, including poor nutrition, dehydration, lack of sleep, hormonal imbalances, underlying medical conditions (like thyroid issues), or frequent exposure to harsh chemicals.

How long does it take to grow long nails naturally?

Fingernails grow at an average rate of 3.5 mm per month. To grow nails from short to long (say around 5-6 mm beyond the fingertip), it can take about 2 to 3 months with proper care and maintenance.