We paint them, file them, and scroll through trends in search of the next viral finish—but before the chrome, the gel, or the almond shape, your nails are living biological structures that deserve real attention.

At Finessed, we believe clean luxury isn’t just about what shines on the surface—it’s about honoring the systems that keep us grounded. And your nails? They’re more than an accessory. They’re barometers of health, protection tools, and aesthetic expressions all in one.

Let’s go beneath the polish and into the science of nail anatomy—and what happens when we neglect the layers that make up this often-overlooked part of the body.

🧬 What Are Nails, Really?

Nails are accessory organs of the integumentary system, made primarily of keratinized epithelial cells (keratinocytes). These cells produce keratin, a fibrous protein also found in the skin and hair, which gives nails their strength, translucency, and protective quality.

✨ What is keratin?
Keratin is a tough, insoluble protein made by specialized cells deep in the nail matrix. Unlike the soft keratin in your skin, nail keratin is dense and compact—layered like armor to protect the fingertips. Once it forms, it’s technically “dead” tissue, meaning it won’t repair itself. That’s why it’s essential to maintain keratin from the inside out through proper nutrition and hydration, and on the surface with gentle care and barrier protection.

Harsh chemicals, over-filing, and constant trauma can degrade keratin’s structure, leading to brittleness and breakage.

🧠 Nail Anatomy: A Closer Look at Each Layer

Your nails may appear simple on the surface, but beneath every swipe of topcoat is a complex system of layered structures, each with a role in growth, protection, or health signaling.

🔹 Nail Plate

The hard, visible part of your nail. This is the multi-layered keratin structure we polish and admire. Though composed of non-living cells, it reflects the health of the living tissues beneath it.

🔹 Nail Bed

The skin beneath the nail plate. It contains rich capillaries, giving the nail its pinkish color and supporting healthy growth. Poor circulation or trauma to this area can disrupt the nail’s oxygen supply and slow its development.

🔹 Nail Matrix

Located beneath the cuticle, the nail matrix is the engine of nail growth. This tissue houses rapidly dividing stem cells that produce keratinocytes—cells that build the nail plate.

🌿 Enter biotin and collagen.
Biotin (Vitamin B7) plays a crucial role here. It supports the metabolic processes behind keratin production, helping the matrix form stronger, more resilient nail cells. Collagen, meanwhile, acts like scaffolding—providing structural support for both the nail bed and surrounding skin. A deficiency in either nutrient can lead to peeling, thinning, or slowed nail growth.

Beautiful nails don’t start in the salon. They start in the cells.

🔹 Lunula

The crescent-shaped white area near the base of the nail, most visible on thumbs. This is the visible portion of the matrix and a visual marker of nail health.

🔹 Cuticle & Eponychium

These seal the space between your nail plate and the skin to prevent infection and protect the matrix from environmental damage.

💧 This is where cuticle oil becomes essential.
Cuticle oils aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about biology. Jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and vitamin E are particularly effective because they mimic your skin’s natural lipids. They don’t just sit on top—they penetrate, soften, and seal.

Regular use of cuticle oil keeps the nail matrix hydrated, reduces inflammation, and prevents micro-tears that can invite bacteria or fungus.

Massage in a few drops daily for strength, shine, and long-term protection.

🔹 Nail Fold

The skin surrounding the sides of the nail plate. It helps anchor the nail and offers additional protection. Inflamed or damaged nail folds can lead to painful conditions like paronychia, which often arise from improper grooming or frequent wet work.

🧤 Protection Is Luxury

Once you understand the architecture of a healthy nail, it becomes clear: protection is a beauty strategy. That means:

• Avoiding harsh acetone and acrylics that strip layers of keratin
• Wearing gloves during chores to avoid chemical and water exposure
• Feeding the matrix through biotin-rich foods and collagen-boosting practices
• Massaging cuticle oil to support the skin barrier and encourage growth

The next time you reach for your favorite polish, do it with full awareness of the system it’s going on. Because at Finessed, we believe the real glow-up starts beneath the surface—and true luxury is built on science, not sacrifice.