What it is: Located just under the free edge of the natural nail, it’s living tissue that creates a seal between the nail plate and nail bed along the distal nail plate.
What it’s for: It’s purpose is to act as a barrier from germs and debris; preventing external substances from gaining access.
What it is: Thin layer of translucent dead tissue, which the eponychium (living tissue) sheds. After being shed, the cuticle adheres to the nail plate. The eponychium, also known as the proximal nail fold, forms a seal to keep pathogens from entering and infecting the matrix area. The eponychium, which borders the base of the nail plate, is gently pushed back during nail prep/manicure service, whereas the cuticle is gently scraped off to create a clean base.
