What is the term for the skin surrounding the nail?

The skin surrounding the nail is specifically referred to as the perionychium. This term encompasses the soft tissue that lies adjacent to the nail plate, providing a barrier and protecting the area from infections and injuries. Understanding this term is important for nail technicians, as it relates to proper nail care and the prevention of issues related to skin and nail health.

The cuticle, while commonly used in practice to describe some aspects of nail care, actually refers to the dead tissue that is found at the base of the nail plate and helps prevent pathogens from entering the nail matrix.

The nail fold is a more general term that describes the skin folds on each side of the nail, which includes the perionychium but does not specifically denote the entirety of the surrounding skin.

The lunula, on the other hand, refers to the visible part of the nail matrix as a pale, crescent-shaped area at the base of the nail and is not related to the surrounding skin.

Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for both client education and professional practice in nail care.