What Are Toenails Made Of? Here’s the Scoop

Toenails might seem simple, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. If you’ve ever wondered what they’re actually made of (and why they’re so tough), you’re about to find out.

The Main Ingredient: Keratin

Toenails are made mostly of keratin, a hard, protective protein also found in your hair and the outer layer of your skin.

Tip: Keratin keeps nails strong, but they can still weaken from dryness, poor diet, or damage.

The Layers of Your Toenail

• Nail Plate: The hard surface you see and trim.

• Nail Bed: The skin underneath that supports the plate.

• Nail Matrix: The growth center under the cuticle where new nail cells form.

  Tip: Protect the matrix — damage here can affect nail growth permanently.

How Toenails Grow

New cells in the matrix harden as they move forward, creating the nail plate. Toenails grow about 1 mm per month — slower than fingernails.

Tip: Patience is key when waiting for a damaged toenail to fully grow out.

Why It Matters

Understanding what toenails are made of helps you care for them better — from hydration to protection to nutrition.

So Icy Nailz Tip:

Fuel your keratin from the inside out. Eat protein-rich foods, stay hydrated, and keep your nails moisturized for strength and shine that lasts all year.