Nail Plate
The hard part of the nail. Made of keratin. Protects the nail bed

Free edge
The very hardest part of the nail. The extension of the nail plate. Protects the fingertip.

Matrix
The only living part of the nail. Any damage to the matrix is irreparable. The matrix is where the nail grows from, and where new nail cells are formed.

Nail Bed
This lies below the nail plate. It contains the blood vessels and nerve endings. The nail bed supplies nutrients to the matrix.

Nail Mantle
The fold of skin in front of the cuticle. It protects the matrix.

Lunula
Half-moon part of the nail. No real function. Creates the shape of the nail. The white colour indicates the transition stage of the nail from live to dead.

Hyponychium
The top part of the nail seal. Protects against infection of the nail bed.

Nail Grooves
The two runners that keep the nail growing in a straight line.

Perionychium
Side parts of the nail seal. Protects against infection of the nail bed.

Nail Walls
Sides of the nails, the fleshy parts. Protects the edges of the nail plate.

Eponychium
Bottom part of the nail seal. Protects the matrix from infection.

Cuticle
Protects the matrix. The cuticle is dead skin.