Losing a toenail can be alarming, but rest assured that toenails almost always grow back.
However, don’t expect a quick fix! Complete toenail regrowth typically takes between 6 months and a year.
This article will walk you through the most common reasons why toenails fall off, what you can expect during the toenail regrowth process, and the factors that can speed things up or slow them down. Plus, we’ll cover when it’s time to seek professional medical advice to ensure healthy regrowth.
Why toenails fall off or get damaged
Toenails can fall off for a number of reasons, including:
Trauma
If you stub your toe, drop something heavy on it, or subject it to repetitive stress (as can happen in sports), the nail may detach from the nail bed. Sometimes, trauma can lead to a subungual hematoma, and if left untreated an injury can lead to infection, which is blood trapped under the nail.
If the nail is only partially detached, you may be able to keep it in place by cleaning the nail bed and covering it with a bandage.
Fungal infections
Toenail fungus is a common cause of toenail loss. If you have a fungal infection, you may notice:
- discoloration
- thickening
- odor
- unusual shape
To treat a fungal infection, you’ll need antifungal medications, either topical or oral, prescribed by a doctor. Some products like Kerasal may be used, but in some cases it can cause nail fall off, so you should consult with a physician.
Other medical conditions
Some health conditions, such as psoriasis, can affect the toenails and cause them to detach. With nail psoriasis, you may see:
- discoloration
- thickening
- chalky buildup
Sometimes, medical removal of the nail is necessary. After medical removal, which should be performed with caution as detailed in this DIY toenail removal guide, it can take up to 18 months for the toenail to grow back.
The toenail regrowth process
Toenails grow from an area called the nail matrix, which is located at the base of your nail, underneath your cuticle. That’s where new cells are produced, which then push the older nail cells forward.
Toenails typically grow at a rate of 1.5 to 2 millimeters each month. Fingernails, on the other hand, grow much faster at 3 to 4 millimeters per month. So, be patient!
Nails are made of keratin, which is also what your hair is made of. Keratin is a protein that gives your nails the structure and strength they need.
What affects toenail regrowth?
Losing a toenail can be a bummer, but understanding the factors that influence regrowth can help you manage expectations and promote healthy nail development.
Age and overall health
Just like hair growth, toenail growth slows as you get older. Overall health and nutrition play a big part, too. You need vitamins and minerals for healthy nail growth. If you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation, that can also affect how quickly your toenail regrows.
Type and severity of injury
How bad was the injury that caused you to lose your toenail? If the injury damaged the nail matrix (the area where nail growth starts), that can slow things down a lot. Good blood flow is key for delivering nutrients to the nail bed, so any trauma that affects circulation can also impact regrowth.
Treatment and care
Taking good care of the injured area is super important. Keep it clean, protect it from further injury, and use an antibiotic ointment if needed. Medical treatments can also make a difference. For example, antifungal treatments can help if you have a fungal infection, and treatments for psoriasis can improve nail health.
Lifestyle factors
Believe it or not, even the climate can play a role! Warmer temperatures might help your nails grow faster. Hormonal changes, like during pregnancy, can also affect nail growth rates.
Caring for a Damaged Toenail
If you’ve damaged your toenail, here’s how to care for it:
- Keep the area clean. Wash the area with soap and water to prevent infection. Apply a bandage afterwards to keep it protected.
- Trim rough edges. Use a clean nail clipper to cut any jagged edges. File the edges smooth so they don’t catch on your socks.
- Take pain relievers. If you’re in pain, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug.
When to see a specialist
In most cases, your toenail will grow back just fine on its own. However, you should seek medical care if you experience any of the following:
- Signs of infection: You may have an infection if you notice pain, discoloration, thickening, oozing, or shape changes.
- Suspected nail matrix damage: If your nail grows back deformed or not at all, the nail matrix may be damaged.
- Difficult-to-treat fungal infections or nail psoriasis: A podiatrist can help when over-the-counter treatments don’t work.
- Large hematoma: A large blood blister under the nail could indicate a more serious injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to disguise a missing toenail
If you’ve lost a toenail, you might feel self-conscious. You can use adhesive bandages, especially those designed for blisters, to provide cushioning and cover the area. Open-toed shoes are probably best avoided until some regrowth occurs. Nail polish on surrounding nails can also draw attention away from the missing nail.
What does a lifted toenail look like
A lifted toenail, also known as onycholysis, appears partially detached from the nail bed. You’ll see a separation, often starting at the tip or sides, where the nail is no longer firmly attached. The area underneath may look white, yellow, or discolored, and there might be a gap where debris can accumulate.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus
If your toenail has a fungal infection, it’s best not to cut it off completely on your own. Trimming away loose or detached portions can help, but aggressive cutting can increase the risk of infection or injury. Consult a doctor or podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may involve antifungal medications.
Should I go to the doctor for a lifted toenail
It’s a good idea to see a doctor for a lifted toenail, especially if it’s painful, bleeding, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus). A doctor can determine the cause of the lifting and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.
What does a traumatized toenail look like
A traumatized toenail, usually from an injury, can appear bruised or discolored (black, purple, or red) due to blood collecting under the nail. It might also be thickened, deformed, or partially detached. In severe cases, the toenail can completely separate from the nail bed.
Putting It All Together
It can take a long time for a toenail to grow back after it falls off. Generally, you can expect it to take anywhere from six months to a year, and sometimes longer, for a toenail to grow back completely.
Following the steps we’ve described in this article can help make sure your nail grows back properly. If you have any concerns, or if you think you might have an underlying condition that’s affecting your nail’s growth, talk with a podiatrist to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.