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Nail Anatomy

December 17, 2018 | Articles, Nails | Leave a Comment

Do you know where your cuticle is? It probably isn’t where you think! In this article, we cover some basic nail anatomy, and show you what the different parts of your nail are called, as well as discuss a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to caring for your nails.

Nail Anatomy

CUTICLE
The eponychium sheds thin, colourless layers of skin cells as the nail grows out, and it’s these loose thin cells that stick to the nail plate that are the true cuticle (not the eponychium). During a manicure, your nail technician will remove this layer of transparent skin cells, to improve the adhesion of your polish or enhancement to your nail. See EPONYCHIUM for more info.

DISTAL EDGE
See FREE EDGE.

DISTAL PHALANX
Distal phalanges are the little bones that form your fingertips. They support the flesh of the fingertip.

EPIDERMIS
The epidermis is the outer most layer of your skin. This is the part that you can see and feel on your fingers.

EPONYCHIUM
The eponychium is often what most people call their cuticle, yet it is not the true cuticle. The eponychium is actually a part of the proximal nail fold, and it’s purpose is to form a seal between your nail plate and the proximal nail fold, to prevent bacteria and dirt from entering your body. If the eponychium’s seal is broken, lifted, cut or removed completely, this can expose you to bacteria, which could in turn lead to an infection. Never let anyone “cut your cuticles”, and don’t be tempted to pick this skin off, if it’s dry, rather treat the dryness with a cuticle oil or nourishing hand cream. See CUTICLE for more.



FREE EDGE
Also known as the DISTAL EDGE. This is the part of your nail plate that grows out above the tip of your finger. It is “free” and not still attached to the nail bed.

HYPONYCHIUM
The hyponychium is the thickened layer of epidermis (skin) that lies right at the tip of your finger, snuggled up against the underside of your nail plate. The FREE EDGE starts where the hyponychium ends.

LATERAL NAIL FOLDS
The lateral nail folds are the ends of the fleshy side parts of your finger that surround the sides of each nail. They are extensions of the PROXIMAL NAIL FOLD, and they protect the sides of your nail from trauma and bacterial infection.

Nail Anatomy side angle

LUNULA
The lunula is the half moon that appears at the base of the nail. Not all nails lunula’s are visible, they are often hidden underneath the eponychium. Lunula’s are usually most noticeable on the thumbs and big toes.

MATRIX
The matrix is also known as the matrix bed or the nail root. This is where the nail is formed, and where the NAIL PLATE grows out from. Damage caused by trauma to the matrix is permanent and will often result in the nail plate growing out with white spots (from bumping the matrix), or deep grooves (from permanent matrix damage).

NAIL BED
The nail bed is the layer of skin beneath the nail plate. It’s this layer that nourishes the nail plate and provides it with everything it needs (oxygen, blood supply, nutrients, etc).

NAIL PLATE
The nail plate is the part of your nail that you can see, feel, touch and often apply nail polish to. It is made up of the same keratin cells as your hair.

PROXIMAL NAIL FOLD
The proximal nail fold is the end of the fleshy part of your finger at the base of your nail. This fold of soft tissue protects the delicate new cells of the emerging nail plate, as your nail grows out.

Other articles that you may be interested in reading:
How to file your nails correctly
Do nails breathe?
Nail Extensions
Nail Shapes
Gel vs Acrylic – what’s the difference?
Nails – FAQ

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About

Debbie is a qualified nail technician and freelance make-up artist, based in Army Bay, Whangaparaoa (Auckland).

Debbie studied nail technology at Monaco Nail Academy (qualified in 2015), and uses the Artistic Nail Design range which includes Colour Gloss gel polish, Artistic Putty (also known as PolyGel), and Rock Hard LED Gel.

Debbie also holds CIBTAC and ITEC qualifications in make-up artistry, and obtained these in 2010 and 2012 respectively.

Disclaimer

I do not receive monetary compensation for any of the product reviews posted on my blog. All reviews are based on my own personal opinion after purchasing and using the products myself.

If I am approached by a company to review a product for them at any time (or am paid to do so), this will be mentioned in the relevant post. Being given free products, or being paid to promote a product will not change my personal honest opinion of the product.

Please bear in mind that every body is unique, and although I may not have an allergic reaction to the make-up or skincare products that I have reviewed, your skin may react differently. Wherever possible, please patch test new make-up and skincare products on yourself before purchasing them.

Thank you,
Debbie
Rambling Rose Nails & Make-up

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As per tonight’s Covid announcement, Auckland is As per tonight’s Covid announcement, Auckland is going into Level 3 lockdown at 6am tomorrow morning for seven days. This means that I have to cancel all appointments for the next week, and close my business temporarily.  I have already contacted all clients who were booked in from Tuesday to Saturday, informing them of this. 

I will only be able to reopen the salon and rebook appointments once we move into Level 2.  The online booking system will be reactivated once we move into Level 2. 

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support. 
Stay safe x

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Are you ready for Autumn nail art vibes, or are yo Are you ready for Autumn nail art vibes, or are you still clinging on to bright Summery nails? 

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Fun fact for your Saturday morning 🙂 #funfacts Fun fact for your Saturday morning 🙂

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When it's a client's birthday and she wants "Unico When it's a client's birthday and she wants "Unicorn nails" ...

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And you always feel better when your nails look be And you always feel better when your nails look beautiful.

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I love the colour combination that this client cho I love the colour combination that this client chose for their PolyGel extensions.

Artistic Colour Gloss in Fashionista, Goddess and Gear to my Heart.

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For those of you who can't afford a gel polish man For those of you who can't afford a gel polish manicure every three weeks, we have buffing blocks for sale.  Buffing your natural nails helps to improve blood circulation to the nail plate, it gives them a shiny finish without the use of nail polish, and makes them look pretty and well maintained. 

You can find these buffing blocks (along with a few other at-home nail essentials) in our online store www.ramblingrose.co.nz/shop or use the link in the bio and navigate to the shop on the menu bar.  We ship throughout NZ (rural courier fees apply).

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Do you prefer a matte or shine finish on your mani Do you prefer a matte or shine finish on your manicure?

Me? ... I quite like matte nails in winter and a shiny finish in summer, but that's just my personal preference.

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