Lost fingernail - how to protect sensitive nail bed? (with pics)

[WingDefence]

I lost my fingernail yesterday - I had seen a light bruise on it a month or two back but I don't remember trapping it, hitting it or anything like that. Anyway, my friend (a nail tech) said I'd probably lose it so I kept it as dry as possible, protected with a plaster etc to help the nail underneath to grow but finally yesterday it came off.

Anyway, apart from a MASSIVE ridge as you'll see in the photos, it feels fine. It's quite hard on the top big bump and that feels like a normal nail but the bottom part nearer the fingertip is sensitive, more so after washing my hands etc (understandable really).

I just want to know if I need to keep it covered up or whether I can do anything to help it grow. I know it'll take a good few months to grow back properly but if I can strengthen it with any creams, that would be great to know.

Thanks in advance :)

Bumping for the evening crew

Trying to remember what we did when my DD's toenail came off. Nothing much I think! It's a bit sensitive at first but toughens up. New nail grows up from the nailbed. Wear gloves when you wash up.

Ufff, that looks tender!

www.nhs.uk/conditions/nail-problems/

Maybe apply sudocrem regularly, and wear a clean cotton glove (a black one to show you are half evil) to protect it but let it breathe?

Thanks both. Sudocrem's a good idea and I've just thought, I've got a cuticle oil that might help to stop it drying out (I've read that wouldn't be good).

It's really odd - I've never lost a nail before or known anyone who has so needed some trusted advice

I'd put a dressing over it for now while it's super tender - don't put the sticky bit on the nail bed.
Then in a few days it will be less tender, then in a few more days it will start to harden over.

I don't think nail growth things work -it'll grow when it's ready.

Do you have gels/acrylics?

Hi Zebra, gel on my other nails, well and on the one that fell off. Just in case you think it might be linked, my nails have never suffered from getting them and I give them regular breaks during which I feed them a lot. The salon is run by local women who I know and it's extremely clean so I don't think it's an infection (no sign of one anyway) :(

Thanks for the advice - I'll keep it dry and clean as best I can.