The structure of nails is composed of multiple layers of tough protein called keratin – a fibrous protein that forms an essential structural material in human skin, hair, and nails.
Thanks to its tightly structured keratin composition, nails, along with teeth and bones, are considered the hardest parts of the human body.
Nails typically consist of three layers:
- Nail Plate/ Nail Bed: This is the visible outer part of the nail. It is composed of keratin layers and continues to grow throughout life. The nail plate appears pink due to the underlying nail bed, which is rich in blood vessels for nourishment.
- Nail Bed: This is the soft tissue underneath the nail plate. It contains numerous small blood vessels, giving the nail its pink color.
- Nail Matrix: This is considered the “root” of the nail, housing blood vessels responsible for supporting and promoting nail growth.
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