Nails are much more than a mere aesthetic asset. They protect the fragile tips of our fingers and toes from damage, make it easier to grasp objects, and provide proprioceptive signals to assist walking.
But when the nail matrix suffers an impact, the nail can be damaged or even fall off. What is the purpose of this nail matrix? How can you tell if it has been damaged? And how can you repair it?
What is the nail matrix?
The nail matrix is the base of the nail located under the skin. It is responsible for nail growth, producing keratin and providing the nail with its solid structure. A blow, crushing or tearing of the nail can have consequences for the nail and its regrowth, beyond the pain caused by the injuries.
What is the purpose of the nail matrix?
Invisible to the naked eye, the nail matrix continuously produces cells composed of keratin, calcium and various mineral salts that make up the nails (or “nail plates”). Growth rate is approximately three millimetres per month for fingernails, and one millimetre per month for toenails.
On the nail matrix, a thin layer of pink skin called the “nail bed” allows the nail to be firmly attached to the matrix. Located at the bottom edge of the nail, the skin forming the “cuticle” acts as a natural barrier against the intrusion of foreign bodies.
How can you tell if the nail matrix has been damaged?
Losing a nail is not usually permanent and, with a little patience, a new nail will usually grow back.
However, when the nail matrix is damaged as a result of trauma or impact, it can lead to abnormal nail regrowth (usually twisted or deformed), ridged nails or, in some cases, the nail might not grow back at all.
Damage to the nail matrix requires prompt treatment, which we’ll get into below.
How to repair the nail matrix?
Treating the nail matrix depends on the type of trauma it suffered:
- Impact or crushing causing a bruised nail
- Repeated microtrauma caused by sport or unsuitable footwear
- Infection
- Separation (or onycholysis)
- Tearing
- etc.
To treat a brittle or slightly split nail matrix, it is usually enough to*:
- Wash the nail with soap and clean water
- Disinfect the nail using a non-alcoholic antiseptic
- Apply a nail serum to promote healing and ensure proper regrowth
- Supplement the treatment by filing the nail regularly to shape it and prevent snags
PODERM® Weakened Nails Serum Silicium, enriched with silicium, vitamin B12 and castor oil, repairs damaged nails and fragile skin. It is suitable for all skin types, even those with very sensitive skin.
If in doubt, see a podiatrist for your feet or your GP for your hands to avoid potential complications.
When is surgery necessary to repair the nail matrix?
Surgery is sometimes necessary to repair a nail matrix that has been completely or partially destroyed in a serious accident.
To find out whether you need to go to A&E or a clinic, see a podiatrist who will be able to advise you on what to do next and refer you for the right treatment.
If the impact was severe and you cannot wait, go to your local pharmacy. At night, do not take any risk as other components of the nail or toe may have been damaged: call 112 or go to the nearest health service.
Delayed or inappropriate treatment can lead to fragility, deformation or even permanent loss of the nail. Surgery must therefore be performed within hours of the accident.
Note: a nail can become detached for reasons other than impact. Possible causes of onychomycosis include nail fungus, antibiotic use, or certain inflammatory diseases such as eczema or psoriasis. These cases require medical advice to assess whether specific treatment or orthotics are necessary.
How long does it take for a nail to grow back from the matrix?
The regrowth rate is estimated to be between 3 and 6 months for fingernails and between 12 and 18 months for toenails.
Of course this timeframe depends on the nature of the trauma, the quality of care provided, and the patient’s age, as growth rate slows down from the age of 30 onwards.
How to care for the nail matrix on a daily basis?
The health of the nail matrix depends mainly on a person’s lifestyle and immediate environment.
Here are five good habits to pamper your nail matrix on a daily basis:
- Eat a balanced diet: a diet rich in vitamins, amino acids and minerals is a strong basis for healthy nails. If deficiencies are identified, your GP can prescribe appropriate dietary supplements and vitamins.
- Protect yourself: to minimise impact, contamination and exposure to harsh products, it is recommended that you wear gloves and/or safety shoes when doing housework, handy work or professional activities.
- Take care of your cuticles: to preserve this essential barrier and promote its regeneration, it is essential to nourish your cuticles daily with PODERM® Cuticle Remover.
- Take care of your nails: regularly apply a high-quality base coat to protect, nourish and strengthen your nails, promoting healthy growth.
- Avoid wearing shoes that are too small: repeated friction or compression can cause microtrauma, which weakens the nails and increases the risk of separation.
