Nails are created through a process of cell growth, hardening, and pushing, originating from the nail root.
The Nail's Origin
The journey of a nail begins deep beneath the skin, specifically at the nail root. This area is hidden under the cuticle and is the starting point for all nail formation.
How Growth Occurs
- Cell Production: The nail root contains specialized cells that constantly divide and multiply. These new cells are the building blocks of the nail.
- Pushing Out Old Cells: As new cells grow, they push older nail cells forward. This continuous growth forces the older cells towards the surface.
- Hardening Process: The older nail cells, as they are pushed out, flatten and harden. This is primarily due to a protein called keratin, which is produced by these cells. Keratin is the substance that gives nails their strength and rigidity.
The Journey Along the Nail Bed
Once the cells have hardened, they form the visible nail plate. This plate then slides along the nail bed, which is the flat skin surface underneath the nail. This movement is a continuous process as new cells are generated at the nail root.
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Cell Growth | Cells divide and multiply in the nail root |
| Cell Pushing | New cells push older ones towards the surface. |
| Hardening | Older cells flatten and harden due to Keratin. |
| Movement | The formed nail slides along the nail bed. |
Key Takeaways
- Nails grow from the nail root, a hidden area under the cuticle.
- New cells push old cells outward, and these older cells harden.
- Keratin is the protein that gives nails their rigid structure.
- The nail plate slides along the nail bed as it grows.
