... through the keratinisation process. As more cells are produced the old ones are pushed outwards and flattened, they then become transparent and form part of the nail plate. The matrix also determines the shape and thickness of a nail so the longer the matrix is the thicker the nail will be. If however the matrix is damaged it can result in temporary loss of the nail or permanent damage to the nail plate. The cells in the matrix will die and in turn will halt the production within the nail plate and bed. Without the production happening here the nail itself will not grow. The other part of the nail which helps with the development and growth is known as the NAIL BED. The epidermis below the nail body is called the nail bed. The nail beds main function is to provide the rest of the nail area with nourishment that is ...

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