Sophia Delgado
The nail is a protective plate found at the tip of the digits (fingers and toes) of all primates, corresponding to the claws in other animals. The nail consists of the nail plate, the nail matrix, and the nail bed below it. The nail matrix is the active tissue that generates cells, which are made of a tough, rigid protein called alpha-keratin. As new nail plate cells are formed, they push older cells forward, causing the nail to grow. The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate, and it is the area where the nail plate rests. This forward portion of skin under the nail is attached to the epidermis, or the outermost layer of skin, which is carried along with the nail as it grows.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a fingernail? | A protective plate found at the tip of the digits (fingers and toes) of all primates |
| What is it made of? | A tough rigid protein called alpha-keratin |
| What is the nail made of? | Nail plate, nail matrix, nail bed, and the grooves surrounding it |
| What is the nail matrix? | The active tissue that generates cells; it is also known as the matrix unguis, keratogenous membrane, or onychostroma |
| What is the nail bed? | The skin beneath the nail plate; it is the area of the nail on which the nail plate rests |
| What is the lunula? | The visible part of the matrix, the whitish crescent-shaped base of the visible nail |
| What is the hyponychium? | The epithelium located beneath the nail plate at the junction between the free edge and the skin of the fingertip; it is sometimes called the "quick" |
| What is the onychodermal band? | The seal between the nail plate and the hyponychium |
| What is the cuticle? | The semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells that cover the back of the visible nail plate |
| What is the proximal fold? | A required guardian seal that prevents germs and bacteria from getting to the nail matrix |
| What is the function of a healthy fingernail? | To protect the distal phalanx, the fingertip, and the surrounding soft tissues from injuries |
| How fast do fingernails grow? | At an average rate of approximately 3.5 mm (0.14 in) a month |
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The nail matrix
The lunula, the white crescent shape at the base of your nail, is the only visible part of the nail matrix. However, some people may not have a visible lunula, which is entirely normal. The lunula appears white due to the reflection of light where the nail matrix and nail bed meet. The dermal capillary is responsible for the pink colour of the nail plate, which is more noticeable in histologic sections.
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The nail bed
The lunula is the visible part of the matrix, appearing as a whitish crescent-shaped base of the nail. It is best seen in the thumb and may not be visible in the little finger. The lunula appears white due to a reflection of light where the nail matrix and nail bed meet.
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The nail plate
The width and thickness of the nail plate are determined by the size, length, and thickness of the nail matrix. Meanwhile, the shape of the nail plate, whether flat or curved, is determined by the shape of the fingertip bone. The nail plate is protected by the hyponychium, an area of thickened epithelium underlying the free edge of the nail plate. The hyponychium forms a seal that safeguards the nail bed, and it is sometimes referred to as the "quick".
The free margin or distal edge of the nail plate corresponds to the cutting or abrasive edge of the nail. The onychodermal band, a seal between the nail plate and the hyponychium, can be observed in fair-skinned individuals by its glassy, greyish colour. The cuticle, a semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells, covers the back of the visible nail plate. It is important to note that the cuticle should not be cut or nipped, as it protects the nail matrix where new nail cells are created. Instead, it should be gently scraped or removed with a spoon-shaped remover to avoid any potential infection.
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The role of the cuticle
The nail is a protective plate found at the tip of the fingers and toes of all primates. It is made of a tough, rigid protein called alpha-keratin. The growing part of the nail is under the skin at the nail's proximal end under the epidermis, which is the only living part of a nail.
The cuticle is a crucial component of nail anatomy, serving multiple protective functions. Firstly, it forms a protective seal with the eponychium, a semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells that covers the back of the visible nail plate. This seal is essential for safeguarding the nail matrix, where new nail cells are generated, from germs and bacteria. By preventing pathogens from infecting the matrix area, the cuticle ensures the healthy growth of nails.
The cuticle also plays a role in nail aesthetics. When receiving a manicure, it is important to ensure that the nail technician does not cut the cuticle. Instead, they should gently scrape or use a spoon-shaped remover to push back the cuticle. Cutting the cuticle can be dangerous as it protects the nail matrix and can lead to infections.
Additionally, the cuticle aids in maintaining the overall health of the nail and surrounding skin. Applying a high-quality, jojoba wax ester-based penetrating nail and cuticle oil can help keep the skin soft and tight against the nail plate. This, in turn, supports the health and appearance of the nail by creating a protective barrier.
Understanding the role of the cuticle is essential for proper nail care and maintenance, ensuring the health and protection of the nail matrix and the overall aesthetics of the nail.
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The hyponychium
Maintaining the health of the hyponychium is essential for optimal nail care. This includes keeping the nail area clean and free from dirt, debris, and harsh chemicals. Good nail hygiene helps prevent dryness and ensures the hyponychium remains supple and robust. Regular trimming of nails is also recommended to reduce the risk of accidental damage to the hyponychium. Additionally, activities such as nail biting should be avoided as they can damage the hyponychium and increase the susceptibility to infections.
In some cases, the hyponychium may thicken or become discolored, indicating a potential infection or underlying condition. Pterygium inversum unguis (PIU) is a condition where the hyponychium attaches to the underside of the nail as it grows, leading to overgrowth of the skin under the fingernail. This overgrowth can make nail trimming painful and increase the risk of infection. Other potential causes of hyponychium thickening include nail psoriasis, fungal infections, trauma, exposure to chemicals, or an allergic reaction.
In summary, the hyponychium is a vital yet often overlooked part of the nail unit. Its primary function is to protect the nail and its surrounding structures from harmful substances and potential infections. Maintaining the health and integrity of the hyponychium is crucial for ensuring the overall well-being of the nails.
Frequently asked questions
A fingernail is a protective plate found at the tip of the fingers and toes of all primates, corresponding to the claws in other animals.
Fingernails are made of a tough rigid protein called alpha-keratin, a polymer also found in the claws, hooves, and horns of vertebrates.
Underneath a fingernail is the nail bed, which is made of skin cells. The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate and is the area on which the nail plate rests.
The nail is attached to the epidermis (outermost layer of skin) of the finger. The nail matrix, which is the active tissue that generates nail cells, is located under the base portion of the fingernail, where the cuticle is.
