Nail bed

The nail bed is the skin beneath your fingernail or toenail, providing a nourishing and supportive environment for the nail to grow. It contains blood vessels that give the nail its pink color and nerves that provide sensation. The nail bed is attached to the nail plate (the visible nail) by specialized tissues, ensuring stability and proper growth. It also helps protect the fingertips by providing a tough, protective layer. If injured or infected, the health of the nail bed can affect nail appearance and growth, making it an important part of overall fingertip health.