We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Conditions

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Nail Bed?

By Desi C.
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 58,385
Share

To understand what a nail bed is, it is best to first have an idea of the function and anatomy of the entire nail. The nail is made up of a number of parts. There is the cuticle, which holds the nail to the finger; the nail plate, which is the main part of the nail; and the generally crescent-shaped lunula, or nail root, located near the cuticle. Parts around the nail include the perionychium, found on the sides of the nail, where hangnails and ingrown nails occur, and the hyponychium, found underneath the front part of the nail plate, where the skin connects to the finger. The nail bed, also known as the quick, lies underneath the nail plate.

The overall function of a nail is to protect our fingers, as well as to help us feel what we touch with more sensation. Every part of the nail is important in its own way. The nail bed is responsible for the development of the nail plate. The cells that are in it produce keratin, which builds up in layers and develops into the hard nail plates we have on the toes and fingers.

Nails can also reveal certain aspects of our health. If a nail bed is injured, the nail might develop white spots, although these spots generally diminish over time. Some indications can be more serious. For example, one symptom of the inflammatory skin condition psoriasis is the separation of the nail plate from the bed. This same symptom can also be caused by a response to certain medications.

People who have diabetes should be especially cautious of any nail injuries or infections in the nail bed. As with any possible medical condition, an examination by a physician should be scheduled in order to confirm a diagnoses and proceed with treatment. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pressure, and a hot or burning feeling in or around the nail.

Although not all nail bed problems are avoidable, there are certain steps that can be taken to help protect them from damage and infection. Habits such as nail biting and chewing should be avoided, as they can directly damage the nail bed and allow for bacteria to enter the nail. Nail polish remover should be used sparingly, as it tends to dry out the nail, which can lead to splitting of the nail, and the introduction of bacteria.

Using a nail hardener is a good way to help build up the strength of the entire nail. This will protect the bed as well. Healthy nail beds help keep the entire nail intact and smooth, which results in a nice looking nail, and improved sensation and dexterity in the fingers.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By RationallyMellow — On Jan 18, 2014

Also, if you visit a salon to have acrylic nails put on, it's especially important to make a return appointment to the salon if you'd like to remove them. Many people attempt to remove their acrylic nails at home using nail polish remover and prying or pulling on the acrylic. This can cause serious nail bed damage, infection, and more. The professionals at a salon can remove the acrylics quickly and effectively, with minimal damage to the nail.

Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-is-a-nail-bed.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.