Basic Parts of the

Nail
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Free Edge- This is part of the
nail plate that extends past
the fingertip. It is referred as
“distal edge”, that is shaped
or trimmed in the nail care
service.
 Nail Plate- It is also referred as “nail
body” that rest on the nail bed. It is
made out of hardened keratin that
serves a protective covering on the soft
tissues underneath. It is where we can
apply colored polish.
Lunula- (LOON-yuh-luh) It is referred to as
“moon” which is found at the base of the nail,
a front end of the matrix. It is pearly in color
because of the keratin cells that haven’t been
flattened yet.
Cuticle- (KYOO-tih-kul) It is the
overlapping epidermis around the nail
found at the base. It serves as a
protection from harmful bacteria.
In nail care service, what is removed
is the “true cuticle”, a transparent skin
that can be safely cut.
Matrix- This is referred also as “root of
the nail”. It is situated beneath the
cuticle. It is where the keratin cells are
manufactured forming our nail plate. It
contains blood vessels and nerves. When
it is damaged the nail will be deformed as
it grows.
Nail Wall- It can also be referred as
lateral nail folds that overlaps the side
of nail. It protects the edges of the nail
plate. It serves as a guide for the nail to
follow as it grows. Sometimes there are
also hangnails that needs to be
trimmed.
Hyponychium- (hī′pō-nĭk
′ē-əm) It is found at the end
of the fingertip underneath
the free edge. This
serves as protective seal or
barrier from harmful
bacteria and it is
considered a sensitive part.
Nail bed- This part of the nail where the
nail plate rests on. It is also a
continuation of matrix and it is
abundantly supplied with blood vessels
and nerves. This makes our nails
appear pinkish.