What is the term for the visible part of the nail?

The visible part of the nail is referred to as the nail plate. This structure is made up of hardened keratin and forms the hard surface that you see and can manicure. It extends from the nail matrix at the base of the nail to the free edge at the tip. The nail plate plays a crucial role not just in aesthetics but also in protecting the underlying structures of the nail, such as the nail bed, which is more sensitive and softer. Understanding the anatomy of the nail is essential for effective nail care and services, as it informs techniques and product applications used in nail technology.