toenail

A toenail is the hard, protective plate at the tip of each toe. It is primarily made of keratin and is produced by the nail matrix, a tissue located under the skin at the proximal edge of the nail. The visible nail plate rests on the nail bed, while the cuticle (the eponychium) helps seal the area at the proximal end and the hyponychium forms a seal beneath the free edge. The toenail grows as matrix cells divide and keratinize, with growth occurring more slowly than fingernails.

Toenails serve to protect the distal fingertip from injury and contribute to balance and object handling by distributing pressure during activity. Growth rates vary by person and toe, but toenails typically grow about 1 to 1.5 millimeters per month, with complete replacement taking approximately one to two years.

Care and maintenance are aimed at preventing injury and infections. Trim nails straight across and smooth rough edges; avoid cutting into the corners to reduce the risk of ingrown nails. Keep nails clean and dry, wear well-fitting shoes, and avoid aggressive cutting of the cuticle. If a nail becomes thickened, discolored, separates from the nail bed, or is painful, medical advice should be sought. Common conditions include ingrown toenails, fungal infections (onychomycosis), and trauma-induced changes such as subungual hematoma. Persistent pain, spreading infection, or rapid changes in color or thickness warrant professional evaluation. Changes in nail appearance can also reflect systemic health issues, though many nail conditions are localized and treatable.