Baby nails grow quickly due to a combination of factors, particularly rapid growth rates in infancy. While a definitive scientific reason isn't pinpointed to a single cause, the following contribute to this phenomenon:
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High Metabolic Rate: Infants experience a significantly higher metabolic rate compared to older children and adults. This fuels rapid cell division and growth throughout their bodies, including nail production.
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Rapid Overall Growth: Babies are growing at an incredibly fast pace overall. This widespread growth spurt impacts all parts of their body, leading to quicker nail development.
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Lack of Fine Motor Control: Although not directly linked to nail growth rate, it creates a perceived need to trim nails often. Because babies lack fine motor skills, they can easily scratch themselves. Regular trimming is necessary for safety, giving the impression that their nails are always growing. This is supported by the provided reference that indicates the need to trim nails frequently to prevent scratching.
Implications for Nail Care:
Due to this fast nail growth, regular trimming is essential. Many parents find they need to trim their baby's nails once or twice a week to prevent scratching. Using baby nail clippers or blunt-nosed scissors specifically designed for infants is recommended.
