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Nail Bed - the pink part of the nail containing the blood vessels and nerves.

Fact - it is important for normal nail growth that the nail bed be smooth. If it is
not, the nail may split or develop grooves that can be cosmetically
unappealing.

Nail Root - is where the new cells are generated, making the nail grow.

Fact - the root of the fingernail is also known as the germinal matrix and is the

portion of the nail beneath the skin behind the fingernail. It extends into
the finger. The root produces most of the volume of the nail and the bed.

Nail Plate - the whole nail, including the white tip and the pink bed.

Fact - the pink appearance of the nail comes from the blood vessels underneath the
nail. The underneath surface of the nail plate has grooves along the length
of the nail that help anchor it to the nail bed.

Lunula - the crescent moon at the nail base.

Cuticle - the thin strip of skin at the base of the nail covering the matrix.

Fact - the cuticle is situated between the skin of the finger and the nail plate
fusing these structures together and providing a waterproof barrier.

Your nails are comprised of keratin, which is a tough, fibrous protein substance. The hardness of the nail comes from the presence of sulphur in amino acids binding the keratin together. Fat and water molecules lie between the layers of keratin and make nails shiny and pliable.

Like the rest of your body, the strength and look of our nails are genetically determined, so we have to work with what we have been given. But, by taking good care of your nails - grooming them weekly, moisturizing them daily, protecting them from the sun and caring properly for your cuticles - you can make th best of what you have.

Learn more about this author, Jill Sznajder.
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