Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Andrew Jardel on 06/01/2010 14:30:02

Title: Why do finger nails grow so much faster than toe nails?
Post by: Andrew Jardel on 06/01/2010 14:30:02

Andrew Jardel  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Why do finger nails grow so much faster than toe nails?

What do you think?

Title: Why do finger nails grow so much faster than toe nails?
Post by: ATremor on 08/01/2010 02:16:09

I have also heard in the past that there is a circadian biorhythm to your nail growth. Seven years of rapid growth rate followed by seven years of a declining growth rate. Anyone else hear this, or is it a bit of bogus?
AT

Title: Why do finger nails grow so much faster than toe nails?
Post by: GrumpyShedMonster on 08/01/2010 09:29:39

I think it has a lot to do with temperature.  My toenails definitely grow faster in summer.  This fits with the blood supply answer above as in the cold blood flow will be reduced to the toes.