Fingernails

Fingernails are hard coverings on the tips of your fingers. They protect your fingers from getting hurt. Nails also help you pick up small things and scratch itches. You have nails on your toes too.

What Nails Are Made Of

Nails are made of a hard material called keratin. This is the same stuff that makes up your hair. The part you can see is not alive, so cutting nails does not hurt. The pink part under your nail has blood vessels that give it color.

How Nails Grow

Nails grow from a spot under your skin called the nail bed. Fingernails grow faster than toenails. They grow about one eighth of an inch each month. Nails grow faster in the summer and on your writing hand.

Fun Facts

• It takes about six months to grow a whole new fingernail.
• The white half-moon at the bottom of your nail is called the lunula.
• Nails can show signs of how healthy you are.

Did You Know?

Fingernails grow faster than toenails because your fingers get more blood flow. Nails also grow faster when you are young.