Nail Anatomy and Cosmetology Concepts

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to nail anatomy, useful for cosmetology students.

Eponychium

The area of tissue at the base of the nail, often confused with the nail cuticle.

Nail Plate

The hard, protective plate that covers the tips of the fingers and toes.

Natural Nail

Technically referred to as onyx; it is the hard, protective structure at the tips of fingers or toes.

Nail Cuticle

The layer of dead skin that overlaps the nail plate at the base and protects the area between the skin and the nail.

Matrix

The tissue under the base of the nail where cell division occurs, producing the nail.

Onyx

The technical term for the natural nail itself.

Nail Bed

The skin beneath the nail plate, which supports the nail and is vascularized.

Keratin

A fibrous structural protein that makes up the composition of the nail.