What is the skin underneath the free edge known as?

The skin underneath the free edge of the nail is referred to as the hyponychium. This area plays a vital role in protecting the underlying tissues of the fingertip from infection and injury. It is located at the junction between the nail plate and the skin, serving as a barrier that prevents pathogens from entering beneath the nail.

Understanding the hyponychium's function is crucial for anyone in the manicuring field, as it highlights the importance of maintaining proper hygiene during nail services. Proper care of this area can help prevent issues such as ingrown nails or infections.

In contrast, the nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate but does not specifically refer to the area under the free edge. The nail root is the part of the nail that is not visible and is responsible for growth, while the matrix is the tissue that produces the cells that become the nail plate but does not lie underneath the free edge. Recognizing these anatomical distinctions is important in the study of nail care and manicuring practices.