Differences in Nail Structure on Hands and Feet – MONLIS School Munich

At first glance, fingernails and toenails may seem similar in function, but they differ significantly in structure, growth rate, and the types of stress they endure. For future manicure and pedicure professionals, understanding these differences is essential for providing safe, precise, and tailored treatments. At MONLIS School Munich, we focus on a solid theoretical foundation combined with practical, hands-on training.

Anatomical Basics

Both fingernails and toenails are made of keratin – a strong protein that gives nails their hardness and durability. The visible part is called the nail plate, which sits atop the nail bed and grows from the nail matrix. The cuticle protects this matrix and plays an important role in nail health.

Despite having the same basic structure, nails on the hands and feet show distinct differences in thickness, shape, and resilience, which professionals must consider when performing treatments.

Key Differences Between Fingernails and Toenails

1. Thickness and Hardness
   Toenails are usually much thicker than fingernails. This is a natural adaptation to the higher mechanical stress from walking and wearing shoes. While this thickness provides protection, it also means pedicures often require specialized tools and techniques.
   
   

2. Growth Rate
   Fingernails grow about 2.5–3 mm per month, while toenails grow much slower – only about 1–1.5 mm per month. This slower growth affects recovery time after injuries or nail disorders.
   
   

3. Shape and Curvature
   Fingernails are generally flatter and wider, while toenails often have more pronounced curvature. The big toenail, in particular, may have a natural C-shape, which can lead to ingrown nails if not trimmed properly.
   
   

4. Stress and Wear
   Hands are exposed to environmental factors such as water, chemicals, and temperature changes, while feet experience pressure and friction from shoes. These different stressors require different protective measures.
   
   

5. Surrounding Skin
   The skin around toenails is usually thicker and drier due to fewer sebaceous glands, while the skin around fingernails is softer and more delicate, requiring gentler treatment in manicures.

Importance for Professional Care

At MONLIS School Munich, students learn to use these structural differences to select the right tools, techniques, and care products for each case. Trimming and shaping toenails often requires stronger clippers and careful techniques to avoid cracking or splitting, while manicures emphasize aesthetics, protection from chemicals, and maintaining healthy cuticles.

For pedicures, prevention of ingrown nails, pressure points, and fungal infections is a key focus, while manicures often prioritize nail strength and a polished look.

Practical Tips from MONLIS School

• Regular Checks: Monitor nails for cracks, discoloration, or shape changes.

• Tool Selection: Use robust clippers for toenails and finer scissors or files for fingernails.

• Tailored Care Products: Feet often need richer, more moistrizing creams, while hands benefit from nourishing oils and strengthening serums.

• Hygiene: Always disinfect tools to prevent infections.

Knowing the differences between fingernails and toenails is more than just theoretical – it has a direct impact on everyday work in manicure and pedicure. At MONLIS School Munich, we teach this knowledge in a practical, hands-on way, ensuring our graduates can perform safe, effective, and personalized treatments for every client.