Why Nail Anatomy Matters & What Your Parts of Your Nail Are Telling You

Your nails are more than just a canvas for polish; they're an essential part of your body that reflect your overall health. Each nail is made up of different structures: the matrix, nail bed, cuticle, hyponychium, and lunula. When one of these areas is out of balance, your nails will tell the story.

At Jada Kenya, we believe that understanding your nail anatomy is the first step toward healthy, strong, and beautiful nails. That’s why this guide not only explains each part of the nail, but also connects issues you may see (such as dryness, peeling, or separation) with the right solutions, whether that’s a treatment like Jada Protein Nail Rescue, a hydrator like Jada Cuticle Salve, or nail care routines that prevent damage.

Overview of Nail Anatomy

A nail is made up of:

  • Nail Matrix: The growth center where new nail cells are formed.

  • Nail Bed: The skin beneath the nail plate that supports growth.

  • Nail Plate: The hard keratin surface we see as the “nail.”

  • Cuticle: The protective seal that keeps bacteria out.

  • Hyponychium: The skin under the free edge of the nail.

  • Lunula: The half-moon shape visible at the base of the nail.

Each part plays a unique role  and problems in one area often cause visible issues elsewhere.

The Nail Matrix: The Growth Factory

The matrix is located beneath the skin at the base of the nail. It’s where new nail cells are produced. If your matrix is healthy, nails grow strong and smooth. If it’s compromised, nails may become ridged, weak, or stop growing consistently.

Signs of Matrix Issues:

Jada Solutions:

The Nail Bed: The Foundation of Nail Health

The nail bed lies beneath the nail plate, anchoring the nail and supplying it with nutrients through tiny blood vessels. When the nail bed is damaged, nails may lift or separate.

Signs of Nail Bed Issues:

  • Nail separation (onycholysis).

  • Thickening of the nail bed or discoloration under the nail

  • Pain or sensitivity beneath the nail.

Jada Solutions:

The Nail Plate: Your Protective Shield

The nail plate is the visible hard surface of the nail made from keratin layers. It’s what you file, polish, or paint. When strong, it protects your fingers and toes. When weak, it peels, splits, or becomes brittle.

Signs of Nail Plate Issues:

Jada Solutions:

  • Strengthening Serum: Reinforces keratin layers and prevents peeling.

  • Protein Nail Rescue: To help heal soft and bendy nails 

  • Nano Glass Nailfile: Prevents splitting by sealing keratin layers during filing.

The Cuticle & Eponychium: Your Nail’s Gatekeepers

The cuticle is the thin layer of tissue that protects the area between the skin and the nail plate. The eponychium is the thicker skin at the nail’s base. Together, they seal off the matrix and prevent bacteria from entering.

Signs of Cuticle Problems:

Jada Solutions:

  • Jada Cuticle Salve: Softens and hydrates dry cuticles, preventing hangnails.

  • Avoid cutting cuticles and instead, moisturize them using the Jada Cuticle Salve

The Hyponychium: The Under-Nail Protector

The hyponychium is the skin under the free edge of your nail that forms a seal against bacteria and dirt.

Signs of Hyponychium Problems:

Jada Solutions:

  • Regular hydration with Jada Cuticle Salve.

  • Use Jada Hand Creme after handwashing to prevent dryness.

  • Keep nails filed with the Jada Nano Glass Nailfile to avoid stress on the hyponychium.

The Lunula: The Half-Moon Window

The lunula is the visible white crescent at the base of the nail. It’s actually the visible portion of the matrix.

Signs of Lunula Issues:

  • Very small or missing lunula may indicate slow nail growth.

  • Discoloration can be a sign of underlying health issues.

Jada Solutions:

  • Support healthy matrix function with Jada Protein Nail Rescue.

  • Keep cuticles hydrated so the matrix isn’t stressed.

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