Will a peeled-off nail heal?

Question

Hello doctor,

I would like to know if my peeled-off nail can ever be healed. I had peeled off my nail a few months before because of my stupid actions, and then it got healed, and I honestly do not know but there was a small circle that I thought I would peel off to make it look better and then I just continued to make even more dumb actions which I now regret. Questions I have:

1. Will it ever heal?

2. Am I doing good by only washing my fingers once a day with soap to avoid infections and to dry it off?

3. Is it good that I wrap my finger 24/7 around a paper towel to keep it safe and secure?

I also make sure not to wet my fingers during showers. Also, what could help heal my nails nicely involves things that I could do without paying for medication or doctors. Because I honestly do not have the cash for the pills or the doctors necessary. So please give me some advice that could help me.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Unfortunately, once a nail has completely detached from the nail bed, it cannot grow back on its own. The nail bed will eventually grow a new nail, but it will take several months to a year before you see any significant regrowth. In the meantime, here are some tips to help promote nail growth and prevent infection:

1. Keep the area clean: Gently wash your finger with soap and water once a day to keep the area clean, but avoid soaking your finger in water as this can weaken the nail bed and delay healing.

2. Dry the area thoroughly: After washing your finger, make sure to thoroughly dry the area with a clean towel to prevent moisture from getting trapped under the bandage, which can lead to infection.

3. Apply a nail hardener: Look for a nail hardener product that contains ingredients like keratin and vitamin E to help strengthen the nail bed and promote nail growth. Apply a thin layer of the product to the nail bed and surrounding skin once a day after washing your finger and before bedtime to help protect the area and prevent further damage to the nail bed.

4. Avoid nail polish and artificial nails: Until your nail has fully grown back, avoid applying nail polish or using artificial nails as these can weaken the nail bed and delay healing even further. Instead, opt for a clear nail polish or a nail polish remover pad to help protect the area and prevent further damage.

5. Protect the area: Wrap your finger in a clean bandage or gauze to help protect the area from further injury and prevent infection until your nail has fully grown back. Change the bandage daily to prevent bacteria from accumulating on the skin and nail bed.

6. Eat a healthy diet: Make sure to eat a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals to help promote nail growth and overall nail health, such as biotin, iron, and calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, and dairy products.

Remember to be patient and give your nail bedtime to heal properly before attempting to grow a new nail again.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Regards.

Will a peeled-off nail heal?

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