Why your nails grow faster in summer: The science behind warm weather and nail growth

During the hot summer days, it’s common to notice that your nails seem to grow faster. If you’ve noticed your nails growing more quickly during the warm season, you're not imagining things.

Heat and increased blood circulation can indeed speed up nail growth. But how exactly does this happen?

Nail growth is largely determined by genetic factors and overall body health. However, the ambient temperature can affect the rate of nail growth, particularly in summer.

When the weather is warmer, the body tends to improve blood circulation, which helps transport essential nutrients to the nail cells. This increase in circulation can promote faster growth.

Additionally, exposure to heat can stimulate the production of keratin, the protein crucial for strengthening and growing nails. That’s why many people report that their nails seem healthier and grow faster during the warmer months.

Nails grow from the nail matrix, located at the base of each nail. For growth to occur, the cells of the matrix need nutrients like vitamins and minerals, which are transported through the blood.

When the ambient temperature rises, the body increases blood circulation to regulate internal temperature, which helps supply more nutrients to the nail cells.

This increase in blood circulation is most noticeable in the summer when the body attempts to cool itself due to the heat. As a result, the nail matrix cells receive more nutrients, which can accelerate nail growth.

In addition to the higher temperature, summer also brings other factors that can contribute to faster nail growth:

Sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D, which plays a key role in bone health and strengthening nails. Moderate sun exposure can help ensure your body gets the necessary amount of this essential vitamin.

Summer is the season for outdoor activities like walking, running, and swimming. These activities boost blood circulation throughout the body, including the extremities like the hands and feet. Regular exercise can stimulate healthy nail growth.

During summer, many people pay more attention to hydration, drinking more fluids and eating fresh foods like fruits and vegetables. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as biotin, vitamin E, and iron can also stimulate nail growth.

Although summer is a great time for nail growth, it’s important to remember that excessive heat can also damage your nails.

Frequent use of chemical products like nail polishes and removers, exposure to the sun without protection, and contact with saltwater or chlorine can weaken the nails.

Here are some tips to care for your nails during the summer:

Hydrate your nails: Heat can dry out both your skin and nails. Use moisturizing creams and oils to keep your nails and cuticles well-maintained and prevent them from becoming brittle.

Avoid overuse of nail polish: Although bright nail colors are popular in summer, overusing nail polish can weaken your nails. Take breaks between applications and use a strengthening base coat.

Protect your nails from the sun: Just like your skin, your nails also need protection from UV rays. Using sunscreen on your hands and nails helps prevent keratin weakening.

Eat well: Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins A, C, E, biotin, and zinc to help strengthen your nails and promote healthy growth.

While nail growth is mainly influenced by genetics, factors like ambient temperature and blood circulation can speed up the process, especially during the warmer months.

In the summer, increased circulation and greater sun exposure can stimulate nail growth, making them stronger and healthier.

However, to ensure beautiful and strong nails, it's important to continue caring for them with hydration, a healthy diet, and sun protection.