Can you make your nails grow faster? We look at the science

“Your nails tell a story – as a doctor there are many conditions that can be diagnosed from signs in your nails. Following a period of severe illness or trauma you’ll actually see horizontal lines form across your nails where growth is altered and slowed – these are called Beau's lines.” If you notice anything like this, it’s best to speak to your GP.

Biotin (also known as vitamin B7) is often linked to healthy hair and nails because it's an essential vitamin involved in normal nutrient metabolism. But that doesn't necessarily mean it’ll make them grow faster. "The medical evidence for biotin is lacking. We need more robust studies to show how effective it is because most of the research we have is older, involves small numbers of people and focuses on those with brittle nails who want stronger nails, rather than healthy people who simply want their nails to grow more quickly."

That doesn't mean biotin has no place in your routine. "There’s some evidence that people with brittle nail syndrome or a biotin deficiency may see improvements in nail thickness and less splitting.⁴ However, in people without a deficiency, biotin doesn't appear to speed up nail growth."

Instead, she recommends taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture. "From a medical perspective, I tend to look first at overall protein intake, iron levels and thyroid function, as these foundational factors often have a far greater impact on nail health than any single supplement alone. Deficiencies in nutrients such as folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D and vitamin C can affect overall health and in some cases may be associated with changes in nail health."^2,3,5

The bad news? No topical product can make your nails grow faster. “The visible nail plate is made of dead keratin cells,” says Dr Hall.⁶ “That means you can’t ‘feed’ the nail vitamins from the outside, so a vitamin-infused clear polish won’t stimulate the matrix beneath the skin, where the nail growth happens.”

The good news? That doesn't mean these products don't deserve a place in your routine. "Cuticle oils and emollients are still extremely valuable. By hydrating the nail plate and the surrounding skin, they can help reduce brittleness and splitting, making it easier to hold onto your length. They don't make nails grow faster but they may help prevent breakage, so your nails may appear to grow better over time."⁷

The same goes for nail strengtheners. While they won't speed up growth, they may help protect your nails from splitting or snapping – provided you choose the right one. “Some products include proteins or conditioning agents but the key is balance. Excessively hard formulations, particularly those containing high levels of formaldehyde or formaldehyde resins, can make nails too rigid and prone to splitting and snapping.⁸ I advise choosing formulations that improve appearance and support resilience rather than extreme hardness.”

"This seal prevents bacteria, fungi and irritants from entering the nail matrix," she says. "Aggressive cutting or pushing back of the cuticle disrupts that barrier, which could increase the risk of infection and potentially affecting nail growth."¹⁰ So, while it might be tempting to trim your cuticles during your next at-home manicure, treating them with a little TLC could do your nails more favours in the long run.

“The idea that nails need to ‘breathe’ is incorrect. The actual nail is made up of dead keratin cells, so it doesn’t need to ‘breathe’. Nails receive oxygen and nutrients via the bloodstream, not from the air.”¹⁰

“Cutting nails doesn’t make them grow faster as growth occurs at the matrix, not the tip.¹⁰ Trimming simply removes splits, which can make nails look healthier.”

“Gel and acrylic nails don’t stop nail growth as your nails continue growing underneath. If using gel polish, I advise professional removal, avoiding aggressive buffing, taking breaks between cycles and maintaining hydration with oils.”

Despite the rumours, eating gelatin (like jelly) isn't a shortcut to longer nails. “Once ingested, gelatin is broken down into amino acids like any other protein.¹¹ There’s no strong evidence that it uniquely speeds nail growth.”

Looking for more beauty tips? Discover the benefits of vitamin A for your skin or find your next favourite Korean skincare product.