Parts of Nail

Matrix: It is that part of the nail which lies below the fold of the skin. From this portion the nail emerges from the flesh. This part of the nail is called the matrix. It is supplied with blood vessels. Any damage to the cells in the matrix will affect the growth of nails.

Nail plate: The visible part of the nail is referred as the nail plate. The pink colour comes from the blood vessels in the nail bed.

Nail bed: The underlying flesh of the entire plate is called the nail bed.

Nail root: The nail root is attached to the matrix and is enriched with blood vessels and nerves.

Cuticle: The cuticle is the tough fold of skin that forms at the base and sides of the nail plate and under the free edge. Cuticle become dry due to over exposure to water and chemicals and also because of the natural aging process. While manicure and pedicure, you have to pay particular attention to cuticles to ensure they are well conditioned.

Eponychium: This is the cuticle at the base and sides of the nail plate and under the free edge.

Hyponychium: The portion of the cuticle beneath the free edge.

Free edge: The part of the nail plate which extends beyond the finger tips. This is the part of the nail that is filed giving it a desired shape.

Lunula: It is a light coloured, crescent shaped area at the base of the nail.