Nails

Nails are a type of keratin-based structure found at the tips of the fingers and toes in most primates. They are a type of appendage and are a modified version of an animal claw. Nails are similar to claws which are found on many animals, but are flat and broad, rather than curved and pointed.

Structure and function

Nails are made of a tough protein called keratin. The nail consists of several parts including the nail plate, the nail bed, the cuticle, the nail folds, the lunula, and the matrix. The nail plate is the actual fingernail, and the nail bed is the skin beneath it. The cuticle is the tissue that overlaps the plate and rims the base of the nail. The nail folds are the skin around the three sides of the nail. The lunula is the whitish half-moon at the base of the nail, and the matrix is the tissue (or "root") which the nail protects.

Nails serve multiple functions. They assist in the manipulation of small objects and provide a visual indicator of a person's health. Changes in nail color, shape, or condition can indicate various systemic diseases.

Health and care

Nail care is a significant part of personal grooming. Regular trimming, cleaning, and moisturizing can help maintain healthy nails. Overly long nails can cause discomfort or injury, while dirty nails can harbor bacteria and contribute to infections.

Nail diseases and disorders are common and can result from a variety of causes, including fungal infections, trauma, and systemic diseases. Some common nail disorders include onychomycosis, paronychia, and ingrown nail.

Nail art is a creative way to decorate, enhance, and embellish the nails. It is a type of artwork that can be done on fingernails and toenails, usually after manicures or pedicures.

See also

• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Nail polish
• Nail anatomy