Old Wives' Tale Biology Medicine

Nails and Hair Continue Growing After Death

Skin shrinkage creates the illusion of growth

After a person dies, their nails and hair continue to grow.

Hair and nails don't actually grow after death because growth requires biological processes powered by living cells. What occurs is dehydration causing the skin to shrink and recede, making nails and hair appear longer. This is a purely mechanical change, not biological growth.

Believed Since 1900
Year Revised 1990
Why Changed Discovery
Confidence Fully Debunked
Region Worldwide

Reception

7/10
5/10

Sources

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