No, nails are not 100% keratin. While they are primarily composed of keratin, specifically hard keratins, they also contain a small percentage of soft keratin and other components. According to research, nail plates consist of 80–90% hard keratins, with the remaining portion being soft keratin.
Here's a breakdown of nail composition:
- Hard Keratins (80-90%): These are the primary building blocks of nails, providing strength, hardness, and durability.
- Soft Keratins (10-20%): These contribute to nail flexibility and help maintain hydration.
- Other Components: These include water, lipids, and trace elements, contributing to overall nail health and appearance.
In summary, while keratin is the most prominent component of nails, they also contain other essential elements that contribute to their structure and function.
