Isla Bennett
The nail matrix is where your fingernails and toenails form, and it can be damaged by injuries or health conditions. The nail fold is the skin that borders the bottom of your nail, and it can be affected by various issues such as cutting, biting, or picking. Paronychia, an infection caused by bacteria or fungi entering through cuts or injuries, can also affect the nail fold and surrounding skin. While treatment can help, it is important to protect the nail fold and seek medical advice for any nail abnormalities or changes. The proximal nail fold, in particular, acts as a seal to protect the nail from germs, and cutting it can increase the risk of infection. With proper care, nails can grow back after being damaged, but severe cases may require medical intervention.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | The proximal nail fold is the skin that borders the bottom of the nail. Lateral nail folds are the areas of skin that fold down along the sides of the nail plate. |
| Function | The proximal nail fold keeps the nail in place and protects it as it grows. Lateral nail folds provide protection and guide the nail's growth. |
| Care | It is not recommended to cut the proximal nail fold as it protects the nail from harmful germs. The lateral nail folds should be moisturized daily or as needed depending on the skin type and climate. |
| Health Concerns | Paronychia is an infection that affects the nail folds and the surrounding skin. It is caused by bacteria or fungi that enter the skin through cuts or injuries. |
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What You'll Learn
Proximal nail fold care
The proximal nail fold is the skin that borders the bottom of the nail, keeping it in place and protecting it as it grows. It is connected to the cuticle, which is attached to the nail. Together, they create a seal between the matrix and the nail, preventing germs from entering the skin.
To care for your proximal nail fold, avoid cutting or trimming it as this can increase the risk of infection or inflammation. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises against cutting the cuticle, which is also connected to the proximal nail fold. If you push back your cuticles, be sure to stop at the proximal nail fold. Pushing it back further will expose the space between your skin and nail, increasing the risk of infection.
If you notice any abnormalities or changes in the skin around your nails, such as swelling, discolouration, or pain, make an appointment with a doctor. This includes proximal nail fold inflammation, which can be caused by physical trauma that separates the nail from the nail bed, resulting in retronychia. Repeated exposure to irritants and allergens can also cause inflammation. Treatment includes limiting exposure to offending substances.
It is important to moisturise the proximal nail fold to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. You can use a cuticle oil or cream, a moisturising hand cream, or coconut oil.
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Paronychia (nail infection)
Paronychia is a bacterial or fungal skin infection that develops around the nail. It is caused by bacteria or fungi entering the skin through cuts in the cuticle and the nail fold (the skin around the nail). The nail fold is where the skin and nail come together. Paronychia usually results from a staph infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, although other bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes can also cause the infection.
Paronychia is a common nail condition that can affect anyone. However, it is more common among people who are exposed to irritants such as detergents and other chemicals, or those who have underlying skin conditions. Certain professions that require frequent hand washing or exposure to water, such as bartenders and dishwashers, also have a higher risk of developing paronychia.
Symptoms of paronychia include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the nail. The skin may appear red and feel warm to the touch. Pus may build up under the skin, leading to a white to yellow, pus-filled abscess. If left untreated, the nail can start to grow abnormally, becoming dry, brittle, and discoloured (yellow, green, or black). The nail can eventually detach from the nail bed and fall off.
Healthcare providers typically treat paronychia with antibiotics to kill the bacterial infection. Providers may also drain pus and culture the fluid to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. In cases of fungal paronychia, doctors may prescribe antifungal medication.
Chronic paronychia refers to cases where the infection lasts a long time or recurs after treatment. It is more commonly caused by irritation from occupational or environmental exposures, or underlying conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease. It is important to seek medical attention for severe or persistent cases of paronychia to prevent serious complications.
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Lateral nail fold care
Lateral nail folds are essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your nails. By understanding their function and taking the necessary steps to care for them, you can prevent common problems and enjoy strong, beautiful nails. Here are some tips for lateral nail fold care:
Moisturise Regularly
It is important to moisturise your lateral nail folds daily or as needed, depending on your skin type and climate. Moisturising helps to alleviate issues such as hard skin around the lateral nail fold, which can result from general dryness. Use a cuticle oil or cream to hydrate the lateral nail folds, or opt for a moisturising hand cream or coconut oil.
Practice Good Hygiene
Maintain good hand hygiene by washing your hands regularly and keeping your nails clean. Use gentle, non-irritating soaps and avoid biting, chewing, or picking at your nails, hangnails, or cuticles.
Trim Carefully
If you have hangnails, carefully trim them with clean nippers without damaging the surrounding skin. When trimming your cuticles, avoid cutting too close to the nail fold. Invest in high-quality nail care tools, such as nippers, files, and buffers, to ensure the best care for your nails and lateral nail folds.
Seek Professional Help
Don't underestimate the value of a professional manicure. A trained nail technician can identify and address any issues with your lateral nail folds before they become problematic. They can also provide guidance on proper nail care techniques and products.
Protect from Irritants
If you are prone to irritation or inflammation of the lateral nail fold, limit your exposure to offending substances. This may include wearing gloves when using products that contain irritants or allergens, or switching to different, milder products. Topical steroid creams can also provide relief.
Treat Infections Promptly
If you notice any signs of infection, such as pain, swelling, redness, or pus, seek medical attention promptly. Paronychia, a common nail infection, is usually treated with antibiotics and drainage of pus, if present. Chronic paronychia may require additional measures to address the underlying cause, such as limiting exposure to irritants or addressing circulation issues.
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Nail matrix damage
The nail matrix is the area where your fingernails and toenails start to grow. It is the "factory" where your body makes new nails. The nail matrix has two parts: the germinal matrix and the sterile matrix. The former is located at the base of the nail and is responsible for about 90% of nail production, giving a natural curvature to the nail. The latter is responsible for the remaining 10% of cells that make up your nails and is more important in keeping your nail attached to the underlying skin.
Injuries and certain health conditions can damage your nail matrix and affect how your nails look or grow. Minor matrix damage can cause temporary changes to your nail's appearance, such as dents, horizontal ridges or lines, pain or soreness, splits or cracks, spots or streaks of colour, and texture changes (e.g. thicker or crumbly nails). In more severe cases, your nail could fall off.
If you notice any changes to your nails, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can determine whether the issue is nail matrix damage or another problem, and recommend treatment if needed. Treatment for a nail matrix condition depends on the cause. For example, prescription antifungal pills are the typical treatment for nail fungus, while nail psoriasis may be managed through pills, injections, or topical treatments.
It is rare for the nail matrix to be permanently damaged. With the right treatment, healthy nails will often grow back. However, in cases of severe nail matrix damage, some or all of the nail may not grow back.
To protect your nail matrix and reduce the risk of injury, it is recommended to wear protective gloves during repetitive tasks or heavy lifting. Keeping your nails trimmed and maintained also minimizes the chance of breakage.
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Retronychia
The proximal nail fold is the skin that borders the bottom of the nail. It keeps the nail in place and protects it as it grows. The fold is connected to the cuticle, and together they form a seal between the matrix and the nail, stopping germs from entering the skin. It is important to avoid cutting or trimming the proximal nail fold, as this can increase the risk of infection or inflammation. Instead, it should be treated like any other wound, and the affected finger or toe can be soaked in warm water to soothe inflammation.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail folds are the areas of skin that fold down along the sides of the nail plate. They provide protection and guide the nail's growth. There are two types of nail folds: proximal nail folds and lateral nail folds.
Proximal nail folds are the skin that borders the bottom of your nail. They keep the nail in place and protect it as it grows. They are connected to the cuticle, which is attached to the nail. Together, they create a seal to stop germs from entering your skin.
Lateral nail folds are the areas of skin that fold down along the sides of the nail plate, providing protection and guiding the nail's growth. They form a seal along the edge of the nail to prevent the invasion of unwanted substances and microorganisms.
Yes, nail folds do grow back. However, it is important to note that cutting or trimming the proximal nail fold is not recommended as it increases the risk of infection and inflammation. If the proximal nail fold is cut or broken, it should be treated like any other wound, and you can soak the affected area in warm water to soothe inflammation.
