What is the free edge of the nail?

The free edge of the nail refers to the visible portion that extends beyond the fingertip. This part of the nail is not attached to the nail bed, which is why it can be seen protruding outward. The free edge serves both functional and aesthetic purposes; it protects the fingertips and can also serve as a canvas for nail designs.

In contrast, the area where the nail bed ends is not classified as the free edge, as that region specifically refers to the skin underneath the nail. Similarly, the production of new nail cells occurs in the matrix area, which is located beneath the skin at the base of the nail, and is distinct from the free edge. Finally, while the surface of the nail can indeed be used for artistic designs, this description does not encapsulate the concept of the free edge, which is more about its physical presence and extension from the fingertip. Therefore, defining the free edge correctly is essential for understanding nail anatomy and its related functions.