Anatomy of Your Nail

Your nails are protective plates made of a hardened protein called keratin. The health of your nails can provide clues about your overall physical well-being and is part of the integumentary system, which also includes skin and hair.

Anatomy of your nail

The nail is more complex than just the visible plate. Key parts include:

• Nail Plate: The hard, visible portion of the nail that you cut and file. It is made of translucent, dead keratin cells.
• Nail Bed: The soft tissue underneath the nail plate. It is rich with nerves and blood vessels, which provide nourishment and give the nail its pink color.
• Nail Matrix: The "factory" at the base of the nail, hidden beneath the skin, where new nail cells are produced.
• Lunula: The visible, pale, half-moon shaped area at the base of the nail. It is the visible part of the nail matrix.
• Cuticle: A thin layer of dead skin that creates a protective, waterproof seal at the base of the nail. It prevents bacteria from entering the nail matrix.
• Hyponychium: The skin directly beneath the free edge of the nail that forms a seal to protect the nail bed from germs.
• Nail Folds: The skin surrounding and supporting the nail on three sides, protecting the edges of the nail plate.
• Free Edge: The part of the nail plate that extends beyond the nail bed and is trimmed.

Nail Growth Timeline

Steps for Healthy Nail Care

1. Keep nails clean and dry to prevent bacterial growth
2. Trim nails regularly with sharp, clean nail scissors or clippers
3. File nails in one direction to prevent splitting
4. Moisturize nails and cuticles daily
5. Protect nails with gloves when cleaning or gardening
6. Avoid biting nails or picking at cuticles
7. Use nail hardeners sparingly
8. Eat a balanced diet rich in biotin and protein

Nail Health Assessment

Complete this form to get personalized nail care recommendations: