Facts about Nail Growth and Structure.
Information on how to have beautiful, natural nails.
The primary purpose of the free edge of the nail is to protect the tip of the finger and or toe.
The nail bed is attached to the bone by ligaments.
The nail root is attached at the base of the nail, under the skin and inside the mantle.
The skin that touches, overlaps and surrounds the nail is the perionychium.
The lunula is the half-moon shape at the base of the nail that appears white due to a reflection of light at the point where the nail matrix and nail bed meet.
Nails are an appendage of the skin.
The cuticle is the loose and pliable overlapping skin around the nail.
The average growth of nails is 1/8th inch per month in adults.
Nails grow slower due to aging, winter months and or poor nutrition and tend to grow the fastest in the summer.
The growth of a new nail plate takes approximately 4 to 6 months.
Nail polish, applied correctly, can give the nail a healthy thicker appearance.
Hand massage with a good lotion will add much needed moisture to the skin and the nails, as well as, increasing circulation, blood flow, stimulation and relaxation to the hands and feet.
Over filing the nail and using too harsh of an abrasive or chemicals can thin and damage the natural nail. Electric Files are meant to be used only on artificial nails. Damage from electric files can harm natural nails.
In the salon, there are several quick fixes to get your nails looking great immediately, however, there is nothing better than prevention. If you treat you natural nails with care, they will grow and be beautiful. Regular manicures with quality tools, equipment and products is the best routine to get into if you want beautiful, natural nails.