What does the proximal nail fold cover?

The proximal nail fold serves an essential protective function for the nail structure, specifically covering the matrix of the nail. The matrix is the tissue located beneath the base of the nail, responsible for producing new nail cells. As these cells multiply, they push out older cells, leading to nail growth. By covering the matrix, the proximal nail fold helps protect it from physical damage and infection, ensuring that the nail can grow healthily and properly.

The visible nail plate is the hard part you see extending over the fingertip but is not covered by the proximal nail fold. The total nail bed refers to the skin beneath the nail plate, and while it is closely connected to the nail structure, it is distinct from the matrix. The entire nail unit includes all these components (matrix, nail plate, nail bed, and proximal nail fold), but the specific role and coverage of the proximal nail fold relate directly to protecting the matrix of the nail.