Cosmetology · Nail Science

What is the technical term for the natural nail plate?

Correct answer

Onyx

A Cuticle
B Onyx
C Matrix
D Lunula

Why this is the answer

The natural nail plate is technically called the onyx. The nail unit also includes the matrix (where nail cells are formed and the nail grows from), the lunula (the visible whitish half-moon at the base, which is part of the matrix showing through), the nail bed (the skin beneath the nail plate), the cuticle/eponychium (the skin around the nail base), and the free edge. Knowing the parts of the natural nail and their correct terms is core nail science tested on the cosmetology exam.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Nail Anatomy

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What is the technical term for the natural nail plate?

Why this is the answer

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