What is the living skin at the base of the natural nail plate called?

The living skin at the base of the natural nail plate is referred to as the eponychium. This is a critical structure in nail anatomy, as the eponychium serves several important functions. First, it acts as a barrier protecting the underlying nail matrix, which is the tissue responsible for producing new nail cells. The eponychium helps prevent pathogens and debris from entering the area where the nail grows.

Understanding the role of the eponychium is essential for proper nail care and maintenance, as it is often mistakenly referred to as the cuticle, which is actually the dead tissue that sits on top of the eponychium. Proper identification and care of these structures can help ensure healthy nail growth and prevent issues related to infection or irritation.

Other terms such as hyponychium refer to the skin underneath the free edge of the nail, and onychodystrophy pertains to a condition affecting the nail's growth and structure, further emphasizing the specific role of the eponychium in nail health.