If you’ve been scrolling through beauty hacks online, you’ve probably come across the viral combination of toothpaste + onion claimed to boost nail growth in just a few days. The photos look impressive—short nails on Day 0 and long, shiny nails by Day 3. But does this trick actually work, and why is it suddenly everywhere?
This article breaks down the trend, explains what’s real and what’s not, and gives you a safe, practical routine for stronger, healthier nails.
Why People Use Toothpaste and Onion for Nails
The trend became popular because both ingredients are easy to find at home. The claims revolve around the idea that each ingredient might offer short-term cosmetic benefits:
Toothpaste Benefits (Temporary Only)
Toothpaste contains:
Baking soda
Mild abrasives
Hydrating agents
Antibacterial compounds
People believe these may help:
Brighten the nail surface
Remove stains
Give the appearance of a smoother, healthier nail plate
Onion Benefits (Traditional Beauty Hack)
Onions are rich in:
Sulfur
Antioxidants
Natural antibacterial compounds
In natural beauty practices, sulfur is often said to support keratin—the protein your nails are made of.
Can This Combo Actually Make Nails Grow Faster?
Here’s the truth:
No topical ingredient can make nail growth accelerate dramatically within 3 days.
Nail growth comes from the matrix under your cuticle. It’s influenced by:
Nutrition
Hydration
Hormones
Overall health
While toothpaste and onion might temporarily improve the appearance of nails, they cannot biologically speed up growth at the root.
BUT…
They can make your nails look:
Shinier
Cleaner
Smoother
More hydrated
Which is why the “after” photos look so striking.
How to Use the Onion + Toothpaste Method Safely
If you want to try it for cosmetic purposes, here’s a safe, simple routine:
Ingredients
1 teaspoon of toothpaste (white, non-gel)
1 slice or 1 tablespoon of onion juice
A soft nail brush or cotton pad
Directions
Mix the toothpaste with a few drops of onion juice.
Apply the paste to your nails and gently massage for 1–2 minutes.
Leave on for 5–7 minutes.
Rinse well with warm water and apply cuticle oil or moisturizer.
Repeat 2–3 times per week, not daily.
Important Tips
Avoid if you have sensitive skin or cuts around your nails.
Never leave toothpaste on for too long—it can dry your skin.
Always moisturize afterward.
What Actually Helps Nails Grow Faster (Real Methods)
If you want true nail growth, try these proven tips:
1. Increase Biotin Intake
Found in eggs, nuts, seeds, and supplements.
Biotin strengthens keratin and reduces nail breakage.
2. Keep Nails Moisturized
Use:
Vitamin E oil
Jojoba oil
Cuticle creams
Hydrated nails break less, so they appear longer faster.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Limit exposure to:
Acetone
Dish detergents
Cleaning products
Wear gloves when needed.
4. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Include:
Protein
Omega-3
Zinc
Iron
Nails reflect your overall nutritional state.
5. Avoid Constant Biting or Picking
This damages the nail matrix and slows growth.
Should You Try the Viral Hack?
Yes—if you’re doing it for fun or temporary cosmetic improvement.
No—if you expect instant growth within days.
The toothpaste–onion mixture can clean and brighten the nail surface, giving the illusion of longer nails. It’s a quick, inexpensive beauty trick, but it’s not a miracle growth formula.
Final Thoughts
Beauty hacks go viral because they’re simple and surprising, and the onion–toothpaste trick is no exception. While it won’t truly speed up nail growth in 3 days, it may help your nails look fresher, shinier, and healthier.
For real long-term results, focus on nutrition, hydration, and consistent nail care.