{"id":229,"date":"2023-12-29T21:51:40","date_gmt":"2023-12-29T21:51:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/?p=229"},"modified":"2023-12-29T21:53:49","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T21:53:49","slug":"why-does-my-nail-grow-crooked","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vampy-varnish.com\/why-does-my-nail-grow-crooked\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Do My Nails Grow Crooked?"},"content":{"rendered":"
If you’ve noticed your fingernails or toenails growing in warped or bending to one side, you’re not alone. Crooked nail growth is a common occurrence that can result from various causes.<\/p>\n
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Crooked nail growth is usually caused by minor trauma or injury to the nail bed, fungal infections, vitamin deficiencies, or improper nail care techniques that put uneven pressure on the nails<\/b>.<\/p>\n
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the leading causes of crooked nail growth and provide tips for straightening bent nails and preventing future curvature.<\/p>\n
Fingernails that grow in crooked can sometimes be caused by minor injuries or trauma to the nail or nail bed. Even small knocks or bumps can affect the growth of the nail. If you jam your fingernail, for example, the impact can cause a blood blister or bruising underneath the nail plate.<\/p>\n
As the nail grows out, it may look distorted or crooked while the damaged part grows out.<\/p>\n
Nails can also become crooked due to repetitive motions that put pressure on the nails. Typing frequently, using tools, playing sports, or playing musical instruments are examples of activities that can cause crooked nails if done excessively or with improper technique.<\/p>\n
Fungal infections of the nail, also known as onychomycosis, can also lead to crooked, distorted nails. Fungus grows well in the warm, moist environment under the nail. As the infection progresses, it can damage the nail bed and matrix where the nail originates.<\/p>\n
This disruption to the nail’s foundation can result in horizontal ridges, a distorted edge, and a crooked overall appearance of the infected nail. Yellow nail discoloration and nail thickening are other common symptoms.<\/p>\n
Certain vitamin deficiencies have been linked to nail abnormalities like spoon nails and concave nail deformities. Crooked nails may also be associated with deficiencies in nutrients like iron and biotin.<\/p>\n
One study found that around 87% of people with brittle, distorted or discolored nails had low levels of biotin. Getting sufficient amounts of essential vitamins and minerals can potentially help improve the appearance of crooked or misshapen nails.<\/p>\n
Nail care habits can also contribute to crooked nail development in some cases. Using your nails as tools to pry open cans or perform other tasks puts undue stress on the nails that can affect growth. Picking or tearing at the nail can also distort its appearance.<\/p>\n
In addition, certain types of manicures and artificial nails can damage the nail bed and matrix. Acrylic nails applied too tightly or improper nail polish removal with harsh acetone-based removers can both impede normal nail growth.<\/p>\n
Filing nails is one of the easiest ways to help straighten slightly bent nails. Use a fine-grain emery board and gently<\/b> file in one direction, avoiding sawing back and forth. Focus filing on the raised, bent edges to help level them with the rest of the nail.<\/p>\n
Take care not to over-file or thin the nails too much, as this can further weaken them.<\/p>\n
Keeping the nail bed and surrounding skin hydrated with oil can help strengthen nails and make them less likely to bend and break. Massage a few drops of oil like vitamin E or jojoba into the nail beds and cuticles 1-2 times per day.<\/p>\n
The oils’ emollient properties soak into the nail plate and increase flexibility so nails bend rather than crack under pressure.<\/p>\n
Specialized orthonyxia tools like peel sticks and nail correctors can straighten severely bent, ingrown, or pincer nails. Peel sticks contain layers of soft polymer that when wrapped around the nail, apply gentle pressure to coax the nail back into a straight position.<\/p>\n
Similarly, nail correctors use a light spring mechanism to provide continuous pressure against the distorted part of the nail. Both options are inexpensive, easy to use, and highly effective for realigning stubborn, curved nails.<\/p>\n
For some, homemade remedies work best to correct nail issues. One simple approach is to mix equal parts lemon juice and olive oil and brush onto the nails and surrounding skin every other day. The mild acidity in lemon helps soften keratin while the olive oil conditions.<\/p>\n
Other common household items like denture glue, tea bags, or very fine-grit sandpaper may also prove helpful when applied cautiously to overly bent nails.<\/p>\n
In more serious cases of nail distortion, consulting a podiatrist is wise. The specialist can properly diagnose the underlying cause and create a customized treatment plan which may include professional nail correction services.<\/p>\n
Addressing any nutritional deficiencies, fungal infections, or foot biomechanical issues can improve nail health from the inside out.<\/p>\n