Nail growth calculator
Fingernails grow about 3.5 mm a month and toenails about 1.6 mm. Enter where your nails are now and where you want them, and we'll tell you how long it takes.
Your nails
Tip: most people find 3–5 mm of free edge comfortable for everyday life; 8–10 mm reads as a long, dramatic set.
How this works
We use the published averages: fingernails grow roughly 3.5 mm per month and toenails roughly 1.6 mm per month. Your result shows the typical timeline plus a faster/slower range, because real growth varies between about 2.5–4.5 mm a month on fingernails.
Growth speeds up slightly in warm weather, on your dominant hand, and during pregnancy — and slows gradually with age. Nails also grow continuously, so the real limit for most people isn't growth, it's breakage.
Frequently asked questions
How fast do nails grow?
Fingernails grow about 3.5 mm (roughly 1/8 inch) per month, and toenails grow far slower at about 1.6 mm per month. Growth is a little faster in summer, on your dominant hand, and during pregnancy, and it tends to slow with age.
How long does it take to grow a nail out completely?
A fingernail takes about 4 to 6 months to fully grow out from the base to the free edge. A toenail takes much longer — usually 12 to 18 months.
How long will it take to grow my nails 1 cm?
At the average fingernail rate of 3.5 mm per month, 1 cm (10 mm) takes just under 3 months. On toenails the same 1 cm takes around 6 months.
Can I make my nails grow faster?
You cannot meaningfully change your genetic growth rate, but you can stop losing length to breakage. Keep nails hydrated with cuticle oil, wear gloves for cleaning and dishes, file in one direction, and avoid using your nails as tools.
Educational only, not medical advice. If a nail is painful, separating, or discoloured without an injury, see a professional. Read our disclaimer.