What is the function of the nail plate?
The function of the nail plate is to create a rigidity for the end of the finger allowing the fingers to function efficiently in all their dexterity requirements e.g picking up small objects. It is also a protection for the last bone of the fingers and toes which would otherwise get easily damaged
Do nails grow from the nail bed?
Nails do not grow from the nail bed. The nail bed is an area under the nail where it is attached to the end of the finger and provide the nail with essential oils and moisture to keep it healthy and flexible. Nails grow from an area under the skin at the base of the nail called the matrix
What is nail technician?
Nail technicians carry out physical and chemical procedures to beautify, extend and enhance the nail plate’s appearance; and as professionals we have a responsibility to maintain and enhance the nail plate’s health.
Where is the nail plate?
The nail plate is created in the nail matrix, where skin cells are modified and keratinised to become the hard, flat cells of the nail plate. It is the most visible part of the whole nail unit, covering the area from the nail matrix to the free edge and beyond. While it may appear to be one piece, it is constructed from multiple layers ...
Can you buff off the top of your nail?
The tough upper layers are slightly thicker than the lower layers and form a protective barrier. These upper layers should NEVER be buffed off during any nail service. Buffing the top layers off exposes softer layers below.
Why do nail plates turn white?
The nail plate is also attached to the underlying, richly vascularized nail bed, which supplies the plate with necessary nutrients. The cells at the front edge of the nail plate die and turn white as they lose contact with the nail bed.
What is the function of a nail?
The nail’s chief function is to protect the terminal portions of the toes and fingers. On the fingers, the front edge of the nail assists in the manipulation of small objects, as well as in scratching. This article was most recently revised and updated by Richard Pallardy, Research Editor.
What is an encyclopedia editor?
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. ...
Where do nails grow?
The nail grows from a deep groove in the dermis of the skin. All nail growth occurs at the nail’s base, where the specialized cells that make up the nail’s plate are produced; these cells are pushed forward as new cells form behind them.
What is the cuticle of the nail?
Cuticle. A thin layer of dead tissue riding on the nail plate to form a seal between the nail plate and eponychium to prevent pathogens from infecting the matrix area. The cuticle pulls away from the underside of the eponychium and attaches tenaciously to the nail plate.
What is the purpose of a soft tissue seal?
A soft tissue seal underneath the extended “free” edge of the nail plate whose purpose is to prevent pathogens from infecting the nail bed.
What is the proximal fold?
The proximal fold is a required guardian seal that prevents germs and bacteria from getting to the nail matrix, where new cells are created . I always know when girls are cutting. Their entire cuticle line is red and inflamed. Basically, their eponychium is infected all the time.
What is the moon in nail polish?
A bluish-white, opaque area that is visible through the nail plate. This area is the front part of the nail matrix. Sometimes, it’s called the “moon.”
Where does the solehorn cuticle attach?
The solehorn cuticle pulls away from the underside of the hyponychium and attaches tenaciously to the nail plate.
How many layers of keratin are in a nail?
The average person has 50 layers of keratin cells that make up the nail plate.
Where is the living skin at the base of the nail plate?
Living skin at the base of the nail plate that covers the matrix area. This should NOT be confused with the “cuticle”.
