Nail Growth and Ageing

Nail Growth as a Window Into Ageing

We don’t often think of our nails as messengers of internal health, but recent research from Harvard geneticist Dr David Sinclair is shining new light on that exact idea. In the study, Sinclair and his team point to a small but steady slowdown in nail growth and ageing after the age of 25. According to the data, nail growth declines by roughly 0.5% each year.

That might not sound dramatic, but over time it paints a bigger picture. Slower nail growth may reflect broader biological processes such as decreased cellular regeneration and metabolic efficiency that naturally come with age. As a result, your nails could quietly be keeping track of your internal “biological clock.”

Let’s unpack what this means for you and the wider nail industry.

What the science says about nail growth and ageing

The study focused on placa ungueal growth rates across different age groups. Researchers observed that as people age, their nail plates grow more slowly, suggesting this could be used as a non-invasive proxy for biological age, similar to other indicators like skin elasticity or hair density.

Interestingly, nail growth doesn’t decline in a straight line. It follows biological rhythms tied to factors like temperature, nutrition, stress, and hormone levels. For instance, nails tend to grow faster in warmer months, and slower when circulation is reduced or illness is present.

This growing body of evidence places nail growth in the same health-monitoring category as skin biomarkers, offering clues about everything from ageing to chronic disease.

NailKnowledge’s take: small signs, big implications

This new research aligns beautifully with what we’ve long known in professional cuidados com as unhas: nails are more than just a beauty feature. They’re windows into internal health. While we’ve typically used nail changes to spot deficiencies or local infections, this deeper link to biological age opens up new possibilities for preventative care.

It also supports the need for regular, informed nail assessments by qualified professionals. Técnicos de unhas are often the first to notice subtle shifts that clients may not pick up on, such as slower regrowth between appointments or changes in nail thickness or quality.

This isn’t about turning salons into diagnostic clinics, of course. But it é about recognising the potential role of profissionais de unhas as early observers of age-related changes.

Why understanding nail growth and ageing matters

The phrase “nail growth and ageing” might feel like it belongs in a medical journal, but it has very real implications in everyday practice.

Here’s why it matters:

• Personalised care: Understanding a client’s age-related nail changes helps you tailor services, avoid overly aggressive treatments, and recommend suitable home care.
• Client trust: Educating clients on the natural changes in their nail growth shows professionalism and builds long-term loyalty.
• Professional development: Staying informed about emerging science in nail health keeps your practice relevant and respected.

For example, if a client in their 50s notices slower nail regrowth after enhancements are removed, this research offers a scientific explanation and a great chance to talk about wellness habits that support healthy nail growth, like balanced nutrition and circulation-boosting routines.

Practical advice for nail professionals

Here are a few ways to apply this knowledge:

1. Track nail growth cycles. Consider noting nail regrowth rates between services, especially in older clients, to spot emerging patterns.
2. Adjust expectations. Older clients may experience slower nail growth and healing, so treatment timelines may need to be extended.
3. Encourage lifestyle support. Remind clients that hydration, diet, and reduced stress all play a role in nail health and ageing.
4. Stay curious. Use this insight as a conversation starter. Many clients love learning how their nails reflect their overall wellbeing.

📖 Original Research:
Harvard’s David Sinclair: Nail Growth Shows How Fast You’re Aging
🔗 Read the full study

📝 Editor’s Note:

This research may expand how we understand nail changes over time. While not diagnostic, nail growth rates may one day be used as a broader health indicator. NailKnowledge will continue monitoring developments under our Nail Science Watch: What’s Changing in 2025 initiative.

💬 We want your insight!

Have you noticed changes in your clients’ nail growth over the years? Do you tailor treatments based on age-related nail behaviour?

Think our previous guidance was off? We want to hear from you.
📩 Email us at: [email protected]

Final thoughts

Nail science is always evolving, and this new link between nail growth and ageing offers an exciting glimpse into how seemingly simple details can reflect complex internal processes. For nail professionals, it reinforces the value of skilled observation, ongoing education, and a holistic view of nail health.

As new science emerges, so do our recommendations.

Let’s keep learning, one nail at a time.

Original Source: www.nmn.com