Nails are also a part of the body that needs proper care and attention for a healthy lifestyle or look. But dealing with fingernails that grow upwards can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, and leaving them uncared for can lead to a lousy manicure or, in the worst cases, serious health issues.
However, when you understand the underlying causes and make use of appropriate solutions to fix fingernails that grow upwards, you can achieve healthier and more aesthetically pleasing nails.
In this article, I will explain the reasons behind upward-growing nails and provide practical steps on how to fix this issue.
What Causes Fingernails To Grow Upward?
1. Genetics
Like other parts of the body whose appearance is influenced by the genes gotten from your ancestors, the way your nails grow can also be affected by your genetic makeup.
If family members, especially your parents, have upward-growing nails, it could also lead to your fingernails growing upward. Therefore, if you discover your parent has this type of nail, you can quickly work towards curbing your fingernails from growing upward.
2. Trauma or injury
Anytime your nails hit or are slammed against the wall, door, or anything, it causes nail trauma or injury, which might lead to the fingernail growing abnormally. Constant use of nail polish removal and acetone can also bring about nail trauma.
Also, when you constantly wear nail polish and don’t give your natural nail rest from acrylics and gel, nail trauma is inevitable as these products are made up of chemicals that can be dangerous to nail health when worn regularly.
The nail matrix, the root of your nail which is responsible for nail growth, can get disturbed by such incidents, and it usually takes about 2 to 3 months before they recover.
3. Improper nail care
Another factor that could lead to fingernails growing upward is not properly caring for your nails. For instance, when you habitually use your nails as tools, bite on your nails, or do not trim your nails or clean them up, in general, not maintaining proper nail hygiene can lead to nail damage and misgrowth.
If your parent has upward-growing nails, it will be a good way to prevent your nails from growing the same way by taking great care of your nail.
4. Medical conditions
Specific health issues can affect the growth of your nails; some conditions, like onychogryphosis, overgrowth of your hyponychium, nail-patella syndrome, koilonychia, anaemia, and lung disease, can cause nails to grow upward.
How To Fix Fingernails That Grow Upwards
1. Gentle nail filing
Regularly filing your nails with a gentle emery board can help shape and encourage proper growth; file in one direction to prevent further damage.
2. Clean and take protective measures
You can make use of nail cleaner to remove the dirt under your nails, and also ensure that you wear gloves when doing household chores or tasks that might strain your nails to avoid trauma. Avoid using your nails to open objects.
3. Moisturisation
Daily, apply a nail-specific moisturizer or cuticle oil to keep your nails and surrounding skin hydrated, enhancing their flexibility and growth pattern.
4. Nail strengtheners
Consider using nail strengtheners or hardeners with ingredients like biotin, keratin, or vitamin E to improve nail structure and growth.
5. Avoid overuse of nail products
Excessive use of nail polish, acrylics, or gels can weaken nails. Allow your nails to breathe occasionally by giving them polish-free intervals.
6. Seek medical advice
If your upward-growing nails are persistent and causing discomfort, consult a dermatologist or a nail specialist. They can recommend suitable treatments or interventions.
7. Healthy diet
Ensure you get proper nutrition, including vitamins and minerals like biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. A balanced diet supports overall nail health.
4 Health Conditions That Cause Fingernails To Grow Upward
1. Onychogryphosis
Onychogryphosis is a severe and rear nail disease usually called a ram’s horn nail and claw nail because it causes the nails to curve and resemble the shape of a ram’s horn or claw.
The thickening of the nails causes onychogryphosis due to injury or infection. It mainly affects the toes, and it is common among older people though not limited to them.t
2. Nail-patella syndrome
This is another health condition that can cause your fingernail to grow upward. Nail patella syndrome (NPS) is a rare genetic problem in about 1 out of every 50,000 individuals. Nearly everyone with NPS has unusual nails, and this mainly affects the fingernails more than the toenails.
Those with Nail Patella Syndrome usually have bone issues with their knees, elbows, and hips and are more likely to develop kidney problems too.
3. Koilonychia
This condition is denoted by thin, fragile nails that look concave or “scooped out,” similar to a spoon. Koilonychia often is a symptom of iron deficiency anaemia, malnutrition, heart disease, and hypothyroidism, and it may be due to a liver problem called hemochromatosis. Or it can be hereditary, which typically affects fingernail growth direction.
4. Onychomycosis (Fungal nail infections)
Fungal nail infections, medically known as onychomycosis, can cause nails to grow abnormally. As the disease progresses, nails may become thickened, discoloured, and misshapen, including growing upwards. Fungal infections can affect one or more nails and are commonly caused by dermatophyte fungi.
How To Prevent Your Nails From Growing Upward
If you don’t want your nails growing upward or having any other medical ailment, you need to take proper care of your overall nail health. As prevention is better than cure, you can always follow the tips below to protect your nails from any form of abnormality.
- Trim your nails to a moderate length using a sharp, sterilised clipper.
- Remove the dirt underneath your nails.
- Regularly wash your feet with warm water and dry them with a clean towel.
- After washing, moisturize your cuticles, nails, fingers and feet with foot cream or oil.
- File your fingernails and toenails to ensure that they are smooth.
- Avoid wearing nail polish for too long without removing them.
- Avoid wearing ill-fitted shoes or sharing gloves, shoes or socks.
- Ensure you visit medical personnel to check and give adequate treatment if your nails if you discover any form of abnormality and become painful.
Can You Fix The Way Your Nails Grow?
While you cannot fundamentally change the natural growth direction of your nails, you can take steps to promote healthy nail growth and maintain their appearance:
1. Nail care
Keep your nails clean and trimmed regularly to prevent breakage or damage. Avoid biting your nails or using them as tools.
2. Diet and nutrition
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially biotin (a B vitamin), can promote healthy nail growth. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
3. Hydration
Drink plenty of water to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated, and take protective measures, such as using gloves when engaging in activities that could damage your nails, such as cleaning or gardening.
4. Nail Polish and treatments
Limit your nail exposure to harsh chemicals and nail products, as they can weaken and damage nails. Using nail polish and treatments can help strengthen and protect your nails. Also, avoid the overuse of nail extensions, as Frequent use of nail extensions, acrylics, or gels can weaken nails over time.
5. Moisturize and maintain a healthy lifestyle
Apply a moisturizing cream or oil to your nails and cuticles to prevent dryness while maintaining overall good health, contributing to healthy nails. Exercise, manage stress, and get adequate sleep.
Conclusion
If you find out that your fingernails are growing upward, you can address the issue by a combination of proper care, attention to habits, and seeking professional guidance if necessary.
Moreover, consistency and patience are key as nails take time to grow and improve to a better position after they experience trauma or damage to their overall condition.
