Nail Anatomy
/neɪl/ /ʌnætʌmi/
1. [noun] image source: pintrist.com Accessed Sept 1, 2019 Matrix (nail root): sometimes referred to as the matrix unguis, keratogeonous membrane or onychostroma is the tissue (germinal matrix) which the nail protects. It contains nerves, lymph and blood vessels and lies below the skin, proximal to the nail plate and extends several millimeters into the digit. The matrix produces cells that become the nail plate. The width and thickness of the nail plate is determined by the size, length, and thickness of the matrix. As new nail plate cells are made, they push older nail plate cells forward. This way older cells become compressed, flat, and translucent. This allows for the capillaries in the nail bed to become visible, resulting in a pink color
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the underlying tissue under the toenail shape the nail’s appearance and strength?
The tissue beneath, known as the nail matrix, produces new cells that push older ones forward, creating a thicker, firm nail plate. As these cells compress, they allow the capillaries in the nail bed to show through, giving the nail a pink hue.
How does understanding the nail matrix help clear up common misconceptions about toenail health?
Recognizing that the matrix is a specialized tissue hidden under the skin, which continually forms nail cells, clarifies that visible nail features, like color and thickness, are natural outcomes of this process rather than issues caused by external factors.