Smart Notes

The eponychium is the living skin at the base of the nail plate that helps protect the nail matrix from bacteria and infection. It forms a watertight seal that prevents contaminants from entering the nail bed. The lunula is the visible white half-moon shape near the cuticle, but it does not act as a seal. The mantle is the deep fold of skin where the nail root is embedded, while the hyponychium is the area under the free edge of the nail.

The free edge is the part of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip, which is usually shaped and trimmed during a manicure. The sidewall refers to the skin that runs along the sides of the nail. The eponychium is the protective skin at the base of the nail, and the hyponychium is the area of skin under the free edge that acts as a barrier against infection.

The perionychium is the iving tissue surrounding the nail on the sides, which helps protect the nail from infection. The unula is the white, crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail. The eponychium is located at the base of the nail and protects the matrix, while the mantle is the deep fold of skin where the nail root is embedded.

The nail bed is the portion of skin beneath the nail plate, providing nutrients and support for nail growth. The free edge extends beyond the fingertip and is not directly under the nail plate. The nail groove helps guide the nail as it grows, and the sidewall refers to the lateral folds of skin next to the nail plate. The nail bed is essential for healthy nail development and nourishment.

Onychology is the study of nail anatomy, diseases, and growth. Keratinization is the process by which skin cells harden and form keratin, the protein found in nails, skin, and hair. Etiology refers to the study of causes of diseases, and onyx is another term for the nail itself. Understanding onychology helps nail technicians and healthcare professionals maintain nail health.

Keratin is a fibrous protein that makes up the structure of nails, skin, and hair. It provides strength and resilience, protecting nails from damage and environmental factors. The epithelium is a type of tissue found throughout the body, including skin. The cuticle is the layer of skin that protects the base of the nail, and the unula is the visible part of the nail matrix.

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It causes itching, peeling, and redness, often between the toes. Tinea unguium refers to a fungal infection of the nails, not the skin. A hangnail is a small piece of skin that separates from the cuticle, and foot is a general term that does not refer to a condition.

Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, often caused by trauma, fungal infections, or allergic reactions. Onychocryptosis, also known as an ingrown nail, occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, and corrugations are ridges or grooves in the nail. Identifying onycholysis early helps prevent complications and further damage.

Onychorrhexis is a condition characterized by brittle, split, or ridged nails, often caused by dehydration, excessive use of nail polish remover, or medical conditions. Onychophagy refers to nail biting, while agnails (hangnails) are small pieces of torn skin near the cuticle. Leukonychia is the appearance of white spots on the nails, which is different from brittle nails. Treating onychorrhexis involves proper nail hydration and care.

Onychophagy is the medical term for chronic nail biting, a habit that can lead to damaged nails and infections. Onychogryposis refers to thickened, curved nails, often seen in elderly individuals or those with neglected nail care. Onychorrhexis describes brittle nails with ridges, and onychoptosis is the shedding or falling off of nails due to injury or disease. Nail biting can be managed with behavioral therapies and nail treatments.