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The natural nail structure | Cilverbow Botanicals


When you hear the words natural nails you think of a bare or naked nails but the natural nails are much more complex then you think. The natural nails are composed of several different parts connected in one unit; the nail plate, nail bed, matrix, nail cuticle, eponychium, specialized ligaments, and nail folds. It extends from the edge of the nail root, or lunula, to the hyponychium. The nail bed contains blood vessels, nerves, and melanocytes that produce melanin. Here are some more Important details about the natural nails and there function.



Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Nails.


What are the natural nails made out of ?

The natural nails are made of a hard and horny keratinized dead cells that has a much different texture than the surrounding skin which acts as protection for the fingers and toes on both the hands and feet.


What is the history of natural nails ?

The natural nails have always been appendages of the skin for humans and are very much similar to the claws of birds.


How long does it take for your natural nails to grow ?

The natural nails can grow 1/4 inch emerging from the surrounding skin and takes about a month to reach the tip from the cuticles.


What does a healthy natural nail looks like ?

A white crescent shape is visible at the base of the nail and is known as the lunula. A healthy natural nails are smooth without pits or grooves and naturally pink in colour. This color is due to the reflection of light at the junction of the matrix and nail bed. The intensity of the colour is dependent on the health of the individual.


The natural nail anatomy.




The different parts of the natural nail structure:


Matrix: It is that part of the nail which lies below the fold of the skin. From this portion the nail emerges from the flesh. It is supplied with blood vessels.


Nail Plate: The visible part of the nail is referred as the nail plate. The pink colour comes from the blood vessels in the nail bed. Under the nail plate are ridges which correspond to the depressions in the nail bed.


Nail bed: The underlying flesh of the entire plate is called the nail bed. The nail is attached to this.


Nail root: The nail root is attached to the matrix and is enriched with blood vessels and nerves.


Cuticle: The cuticle is the tough fold of skin that forms at the base and sides of the nail plate and under the free edge.


Eponychium: This is the cuticle at the base and sides of the nail plate and under the free edge.


Hyponychium: It is the portion of the cuticle beneath the free edge.


Free edge: The part of the nail plate which extends beyond the finger tips. It is whitish in

colour because of the reflection of light.


Lunula: It is a light colored, crescent shaped area at the base of the nail.


Nail Bed: The nail bed is similar to the matrix. It plays no part in the reproduction of the nail plate. The pink colour of the nail is due to its transparency and nails with a blue tinge denote poor circulation.



The goal is to maintain healthy nails keeping them smooth and shiny. Usually doctors judge the health of a patient through the appearance of their nails so it’s always a great idea to keep them bare when getting a checkup. Nails can be cut without pain and they protect the skin they cover from any trauma. The only way to maintain healthy nails is with a good diet and good nail care routine this will help your natural nails to grow healthy and strong over time.


To learn more about your natural nails Book a Cirtual Nail Checkin on us!

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