The nail matrix: function, injuries and care

Have you ever wondered where exactly nails originate? The answer lies in a hidden area known as the nail matrix. It's the birthplace of your nails , the place where nail growth begins and, most importantly, determines the health of your nails.

But what happens when the nail matrix becomes injured or damaged? How can you care for it to ensure your nails always remain strong and healthy?

In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about the nail matrix, its function , and potential injuries . We'll also reveal how to optimally care for your nail matrix to promote healthy nail growth .

What is the nail matrix?

The nail matrix, often simply referred to as the matrix, is the area where fingernails and toenails begin to grow. It lies deep beneath the skin at the base of the nail and is partially visible as a small white crescent known as the lunula.

The matrix is ​​where new skin cells are produced , which then push out the old, dead skin cells. This process is responsible for the growth of your nails.

What happens in the nail matrix?

The real miracle of nail growth occurs in the nail matrix. This is where cells multiply and fill with keratin, a strong protein that gives our nails their strong and uniform structure.

This process gives the nail its natural curvature and strength . Nails grow on average at 3 to 5 mm per month for fingernails and 1 mm per month for toenails.

Injuries and diseases of the nail matrix

The nail matrix is ​​an essential part of our nails that can be affected by various factors. Here are some of the most common problems that can occur with the nail matrix:

• Traumatic injuries: These can result from accidents such as pinching a finger or hitting it against a hard surface. They can cause damage to the nail matrix and cause the nail to grow deformed.
  
  
• Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can attack the nail matrix and cause inflammation. This can impair nail growth and lead to discoloration.
  
  
• Paronychia: These occur when bacteria enter the nail bed , often through minor injuries or cuticle pushback. They can cause swelling, redness, and pain.
  
  
• Psoriasis: This chronic skin disease can also affect the nails and cause changes in the nail matrix, resulting in thick, rough, and discolored nails.
  
  
• Nutrient deficiencies: A deficiency in certain nutrients, such as proteins, biotin, iron, zinc, or certain vitamins, can affect the health of the nail matrix and lead to brittle, thin, or soft nails.

How to repair the nail matrix?

Restoring the nail matrix requires patience and consistent care.

Expert tip : It's important to keep nails clean and dry to prevent infection. Regular nail care, such as using a high-quality nail care product, can also help maintain the health of the nail matrix. In cases of severe injury or persistent problems, a dermatologist or podiatrist should be consulted.

Tips for a healthy nail matrix

1. Keep hands and feet clean and dry: This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.
   
   
2. Avoid pushing back the cuticles too hard: The cuticle protects the nail matrix from infection. Pushing back can damage the cuticle, increasing the risk of infection.
   
   
3. Wear gloves when doing housework: Cleaning products and other chemicals can damage nails and the nail matrix. Gloves protect your hands and nails.
   
   
4. Maintain a balanced diet: A diet rich in protein, biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins can help support the health of the nail matrix.
   
   
5. Use the Nail Growth Serum from Health Routine: The Nail Growth Serum can be your support for strong and healthy nails . The ingredients can promote nail growth, strengthen them, and give them a natural shine.
   
   Enriched with nourishing ingredients like almond oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, vitamin E, and biotin , it promotes a healthy appearance and faster growth of your nails. The serum is easy to apply and ideal for the care of toenails and fingernails.

Expert tip: Please note that these tips are general advice and if you have serious or persistent problems, you should always consult a doctor.

Conclusion

If we look at the nail matrix, it becomes clear that the health of our nails depends heavily on the care and attention we give them.

With the right care routines and tools, like the Nail Growth Serum from Health Routine , you can help keep the nail matrix healthy and promote the growth of strong, healthy nails.

Remember that your nails reflect your overall health and also play an important role in your everyday life. Well-groomed and healthy nails help us make a positive and pleasant impression on those around us.

Therefore, we should do something good for ourselves and always treat our nails with the love and care they deserve.

FAQ

When do you need to remove the nail matrix?

Removal of the nail matrix is ​​a serious medical procedure and is only performed in certain cases, such as serious injuries or chronic diseases that affect nail growth.

It is important that such procedures be performed by qualified medical professionals. In general, the nail matrix should be protected and cared for as much as possible to support nail health and growth.

How long does it take for a damaged nail matrix to heal?

Healing of a damaged nail matrix can take several weeks to months , depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's overall health. It's important to practice good nail care during this time and seek medical advice if necessary.

What role does nutrition play in the health of the nail matrix?

Nutrition plays an important role in nail matrix health. A balanced diet rich in protein , vitamins , and minerals can help support nail matrix health and promote the growth of strong, healthy nails.

In particular, biotin, a B vitamin, is known to promote hair and nail health.

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