Nails — a familiar part of our body that we rarely think about until a problem arises. But in reality, nails are not just “manicure plates” — they are an important part of our body.
What is a nail?
A nail is a dense, keratinized plate formed from keratin — the same protein that makes up skin and hair. It grows from the nail matrix — the living part under the skin at the base of the nail.
A nail consists of several parts:
- Nail plate — the visible hard part
- Matrix — the growth area of the nail
- Nail bed — the skin beneath the nail plate
- Cuticle — protects the matrix from bacteria
- Lunula — the pale, crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail
Why do we need nails?
Nails are not just an aesthetic feature — they serve important protective and functional roles.
Main functions of nails:
- Protective: Nails shield the sensitive fingertips from injury, pressure, and external impact.
- Tactile: Beneath the nails lie many nerve endings. Nails enhance fingertip sensitivity, helping us better feel and interact with objects.
- Supportive: When grasping or manipulating small items, the nail acts as a counterforce — without nails, it’s difficult to open a jar, peel an orange, or button a shirt.
- Diagnostic: Nail condition often reflects overall health: signs of anemia, fungal infections, liver disease, and more can show up in the nails.
How fast do nails grow?
Fingernails: on average, 2–3 mm per month
Toenails: about 1–1.5 mm per month
A full regrowth of a fingernail takes 4–6 months, while a toenail can take 9–12 months to completely renew.
Why is it important to care for your nails?
Changes in nail shape, color, thickness, or texture can signal more than just a cosmetic issue — they may indicate internal imbalances or health conditions.
Regular care and timely visits to a podiatrist help prevent complications such as ingrown nails or fungal infections.
Nails are an important and “smart” part of our body. They don’t just enhance the appearance of our hands and feet — they also serve protective, sensory, and functional purposes.
Caring for your nails is part of caring for your overall health.
