What is the term for the skin that touches, overlaps, and surrounds the nail?

The term that describes the skin that touches, overlaps, and surrounds the nail is known as the peronychium. This anatomical structure plays a crucial role in nail protection and health, providing a barrier against pathogens and other external elements.

The peronychium is part of the surrounding structures of the nail, including the cuticle, which further protects the nail matrix beneath it. Understanding the peronychium’s function helps in performing nail care procedures correctly, as maintaining the health of this area is vital to preventing infection and promoting overall nail health. It is essential for technicians to recognize and differentiate this structure to ensure proper nail service practices.

Other options refer to different parts of the nail anatomy: the nail matrix is where nail growth occurs, the nail fold is the fold of skin overlapping the side of the nail, and the nail plate is the hard part of the nail itself. Each of these components contributes to the overall structure and function of the nail but does not directly refer to the skin surrounding the nail like the peronychium does.