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Nail Care Tools and Uses: What Does Each One Do?
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to join the discussionExplainerNail Care Tools and Uses: What Does Each One Do?Medically reviewed by Mia Dacumos, MD · Nephrology · Makati Medical CenterWritten by Shienna Santelices · Updated Nov 23, 2023As we use our hands and feet daily, these can be prone to bacteria. Thus, caring for our nails is necessary to prevent dirt build-up and infection, which can harbor underneath our nails. But what nail care tools do we need? Our nails serve as a shield. And without proper care, the tissues beneath them can acquire bacterial infections. Aside from this, the nails also function as an indicator of illnesses, such as kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, and other health problems through nail discoloration. Normal and healthy nails are smooth and consistent in color.Why is Nail Care Important?Commonly associated with women, nail care is also for men, as is for everyone. For adults, regular trimming of the nails should be done weekly to avoid germs and bacteria from residing beneath the nails. Specific nail care tools are used in achieving properly trimmed toenails and fingernails, and to avoid painful nail conditions. Manicurists and pedicurists can help in your nail care, but it can also be done at home as part of proper personal hygiene. What Are the Most Common Nail Care Tools Doing your manicures and pedicures can be easy, you just need to have the proper tools.Nail Clippers Also known as a nail cutter, this is the most used tool by many in cutting, shaping, and trimming our nails. This tool is commonly made of stainless steel, perfect for keeping it sharp enough to cut those hardened nails. Nail File The job of the nail file is to smooth out the edges of the nails after trimming. It is necessary to avoid scratches and wounds brought by rough and sharp edges of the nails after the trim. It is also used to shape the nails. Pusher/Nail Cleaner A nail pusher is used to remove dead skin and excess cuticles by pushing it back slowly. Meanwhile, the spoon-shaped at the opposite end of the tool can be used to remove the accumulated dirt under the nails. Cuticle Nipper This tool is intended to pull, remove, or trim dead skin, dry skin, and cuticles around the nails, as well as ingrown nails. The cuticle nipper is similar to the look of pliers but smaller and thinner. Nail Scissors It is a tool exclusively used for trimming tiny nails and cuticles around the nails. The blades of the nail scissors are pointed and thin as it is only for tiny parts of the nails that need extra care.Nail Brush After removing the cuticles, dead skin, and other dirt from the nails, a nail brush is used for a thorough cleaning. It removes the dirt and leaves the nails neat and clean.Tweezers Tweezers have multiple purposes. Its tiny and thin tip is designed for picking up tiny hair or dirt from the nails. It can also be used in designing the nails by putting detailed nail arts and accessories. Nail Polish Remover From the name itself, it functions as a remover of remaining nail polish on the nails. It is often used by people who like to change and apply different colors and designs of nail polish frequently. Most nail polish removers are in liquid form, but it also comes as wipes that are easier to use. The old nail polish remover formula was typically acetone-based, but it has now gradually been replaced by ethyl acetate. Acetone is harmful to the nails and skin. Cotton Swabs Cotton swabs are useful for wiping off the excess nail polish that gets on inside your nails and above your skin. It helps in giving a neat look for the nails after applying nail polish.Reminders When cleaning your hands and feet, take safety precautions especially if you have comorbidities such as diabetes. Unclean tools, tools that have rust, or tools that haven’t been maintained properly may cause infection when the person accidentally injures themselves. W If you’re having your nails professionally done, you may also opt to bring your own tools for your manicure and pedicure. Key Takeaways Nail care should be part of our personal hygiener. It is necessary as it protects the sensitive tissues beneath our nails that are prone to infection and bacteria. However, nail care should be done using appropriate tools to achieve healthy and clean nails and to avoid any harm caused by trimming and the like. You can have your first manicure and pedicure done professionally at the salon, so that you can see how nail care tools are used. Learn more about Nail Care here. DisclaimerHello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.SourcesMANICURE AND PEDICURE, http://oasis.col.org/bitstream/handle/11599/1010/Manicure_Pedicure_BTEP_Final.pdf Accessed January 12, 2021
Workbook: Manicure and pedicure tools, https://tvsd.colvee.org/mod/book/tool/print/index.php?id=6037#ch7982 Accessed January 12, 2021
Manicures & Pedicures: Tools of the Trade, https://www.msccollege.edu/blogs/nails/manicure-pedicure-tools/ Accessed January 12, 2021
HistoryCurrent Version11/23/2023Written by Shienna SantelicesMedically reviewed by Mia Dacumos, MDUpdated by: Jan Alwyn BataraPeople Are Also Reading ThisImportance of Manicures and Pedicures: Taking Care of Your NailsHow to Treat an Ingrown Nail: The Dos and Don'ts of Dealing With OneMedically reviewed byMia Dacumos, MDNephrology · Makati Medical CenterWritten by Shienna Santelices · Updated Nov 23, 2023advertisementWas this article helpful?advertisementadvertisement LoadingHello Doctor wants to be your most trusted ally to make more informed decisions and to live healthier and happier lives.Sign Up NowFollow usDiscoverHealth ToolsInformationTerms Of UsePrivacy policyEditorial & Corrections PolicyAdvertising & Sponsor PolicyCommunity GuidelinesHello HealthAbout UsExecutive biosRecruitmentContact UsVisit our other Hello Health sites©2023 Hello Health Group Pte. Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
7 fingernail problems not to ignore - Mayo Clinic
7 fingernail problems not to ignore - Mayo Clinic
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7 fingernail problems not to ignoreBy Mayo Clinic Staff
Did you know that your fingernails can provide important information about your health? Read on to learn about how changes in the way your fingernails look could signal medical concerns that you shouldn't ignore. If you notice these changes, make an appointment with your health care team.
Nail pitting
Nail pitting is when small round depressions or notches appear in the nails. It's common in people who have skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. Nail pitting also may be related to alopecia areata — an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss.
Nail clubbing
Nail clubbing happens when the tips of the fingers get bigger and the nails curve around the fingertips. It usually develops over several years.
Nail clubbing may be caused by:
Low oxygen in the blood.
Lung disease.
Heart problems.
Liver cirrhosis.
Gastrointestinal problems.
Spoon nails
Spoon nails are soft nails turned up around the edges. This condition also is called koilonychia.
Spoon nails often are a symptom of iron deficiency anemia. Or they may be due to a liver problem called hemochromatosis. In people who have that condition, the body absorbs too much iron from food.
Terry's nails
In the condition called Terry's nails, most of the fingernail looks white except for a narrow red or pink band at the top.
Terry's nails sometimes develops because of aging. But in other cases, it may be a symptom of a serious medical condition, such as liver problems, congestive heart failure or diabetes.
Beau's lines
Beau's lines are grooves that run across the nails. They can appear when nail growth temporarily stops due to injury or illness.
Beau's lines may be caused by:
Infections.
Diabetes that is not well controlled.
Conditions in which narrowed blood vessels lower blood flow to the arms and legs. This is called peripheral artery disease.
Illnesses that include a high fever, such as scarlet fever, measles, mumps and pneumonia.
Not getting enough zinc.
Some types of medicines, including retinoids and chemotherapy.
Nail separation
In a condition called onycholysis, the fingernails come loose and can separate from the nail bed. The separated part of the nail becomes cloudy with a white, yellow or green tint.
Sometimes detached nails are due to an injury or an infection. In other cases, nail separation is a reaction to a medicine or to a consumer product, such as nail hardeners or adhesives. Thyroid disease and psoriasis — a skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches — also can lead to nail separation.
Yellow nail syndrome
In yellow nail syndrome, nails thicken and grow slower. This results in the nails turning a yellowish color.
Nails affected by yellow nail syndrome might lack a cuticle and detach from the nail bed in places. Yellow nail syndrome may be a symptom of a lung disease, such as chronic bronchitis. Yellow nail syndrome also can be related to swelling of the hands, arms, feet and legs — a condition called lymphedema.
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June 30, 2023
Show references
Rich P. Overview of nail disorders. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 9, 2023.
Dinulos JGH. Nail diseases. In: Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 9, 2023.
See more In-depth
See alsoMaintaining healthy fingernailsHow to trim thickened toenailsMayo Clinic Minute: Fingernails are clues to your healthNail ridges
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NAIL | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
NAIL | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
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Meaning of nail in English
nailnoun [ C ] uk
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/neɪl/ us
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/neɪl/
nail noun [C]
(METAL)
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B2 a small, thin piece of metal with one pointed end and one flat end that you hit into something with a hammer, especially in order to fasten or join it to something else: a three-inch nail I stepped on a nail sticking out of the floorboards.hammer a nail Hammer a nail into the wall and we'll hang the mirror from it.
trekandshoot/iStock/Getty Images Plus/GettyImages
More examplesFewer examplesI got a flat tyre after driving over a nail.Can you hold this nail in position while I hammer it into the door?I ripped my shirt on a nail.I've got a run in my tights from the nail on my chair.She scrounged around in the tool box for a tack or nail to hang the notice up with.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Nuts, bolts & screws
bolt
hobnail
nut
rivet
screw
thread
wing nut
nail noun [C]
(BODY PART)
B2 a thin, hard area that covers the upper side of the end of each finger and each toe: bite your nails Stop biting your nails! nail clippers a nail file See also
fingernail
toenail
krisanapong detraphiphat/Moment/GettyImages
More examplesFewer examplesYou're not to bite your nails like that.She painted her nails a bright red.She filed her nails as she watched TV.She sat in the dentist's waiting room, nervously chewing at her nails.I wish my nail polish wouldn't keep chipping.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
The hand
carpal
carpometacarpal
carpus
cuticle
dexterity
dexterous
finger
fingernail
fingertip
left-handed
left-hander
little finger
metacarpal
metacarpophalangeal
metacarpus
minimus
opposable
palm
pinkie
two-handed
See more results »
You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:
The foot
Idioms
another/the final nail in the coffin
hard/tough as nails
nailverb uk
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/neɪl/ us
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/neɪl/
nail verb
(FASTEN)
[ T + adv/prep ] to fasten something with nails: nail something to something She had nailed a small shelf to the door.be nailed up A notice had been nailed up on the wall.be nailed down The lid of the box had been nailed down.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Fastening and tying
be locked together idiom
belay
bind
board something up
bound
bowline
clamp
gag
granny knot
half hitch
harness
hobble
hogtie
knot
square knot
strap
strap someone in
strap something up
strop
tack
See more results »
nail verb
(CATCH)
[ T ] slang to catch someone, especially when they are doing something wrong, or to make it clear that they are guilty: The police had been trying to nail those guys for months.
Thesaurus: synonyms, antonyms, and examples
to find and take a person who has done something wrongcatchThey were caught trying to smuggle cigarettes across the border.arrestHe was arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage to property.place/put under arrestThe suspect was placed under arrest and charged with armed assault.captureThe soldiers were captured by enemy forces.apprehendThe police have apprehended two individuals in connection with the crime.nabThe cops nabbed him as he tried to get away.
See more results »
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Arresting & charging
apprehend
apprehension
arrest
assist
attach
attachment
bust
busted
collar
cuff
drugs bust
fed
handcuff
handcuffs
perp walk
pick
pick someone/something up
police action
post-arrest
warrant
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You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:
Blaming & accusing
nail verb
(SUCCEED)
[ T ] informal to do something successfully: She nailed her audition and got the lead part in the musical. You totally nailed it!
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Succeeding, achieving and fulfilling
A game
accomplish
achieve
acquit
actualize
bear
get through
get to/reach first base idiom
go far idiom
go from strength to strength idiom
go into orbit idiom
grade
kill
rise
sail through (something)
scale the heights idiom
scrape through (something)
sew something up
slam dunk
stand out
See more results »
nail verb
(HIT)
[ T ] informal to hit someone or something with force: I got nailed in the head by someone's elbow. A piece of wood flew off and nailed him in the eye.
SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases
Hitting and beating
at-risk
bang away
bang someone up
basher
bashing
bunch
butt
fetch
gut punch
head-butt
hell
kick
mess
swing
tan someone's hide idiom
tar
tonk
wallop
whop
whup
See more results »
Idioms
nail your colours to the mast
nail a lie
nailing jelly to the wallPhrasal verbs
nail someone down
nail something down
nail something on
(Definition of nail from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)
nail | American Dictionary
nailnoun [ C ] us
Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio
/neɪl/
nail noun [C]
(METAL)
Add to word list
Add to word list
a thin piece of metal having a pointed end that is forced into wood or another substance by hitting the other end with a hammer, and is used esp. to join two pieces or to hold something in place
nail noun [C]
(BODY PART)
the hard, smooth part at the upper end of each finger and toe
Idiom
(as) tough as nails
nailverb [ T ] us
Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio
/neɪl/
nail verb [T]
(FASTEN)
to attach or fasten with a nail or nails: [ M ] Workmen were nailing down the carpet.
If you nail something shut, you put nails in it to fasten it so that it cannot easily be opened: He nailed the box shut.
infml To nail someone is to catch someone in a dishonest or illegal act: We finally nailed the guys dumping garbage in the park.
Phrasal verb
nail something down
(Definition of nail from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
nail | Business English
nailverb [ T ]
informal uk
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/neɪl/ us
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Add to word list
Add to word list
to prove that someone is guilty of doing something: Identifying and nailing insider dealers in the credit markets is a difficult task.
to do something successfully: He nailed the interview and was offered the job right there.
Phrasal verbs
nail sth down
nail sb down
nailnoun uk
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/neɪl/ us
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on the nail UK informal
at exactly the right time: Some credit cards are offering loyalty bonuses to customers who pay on the nail .
(Definition of nail from the Cambridge Business English Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
What is the pronunciation of nail?
B2,B2
Translations of nail
in Chinese (Traditional)
金屬, 釘,釘子, 身體部位…
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金属, 钉,钉子, 身体部位…
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clavo, uña, clavo [masculine…
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prego, unha, prego [masculine]…
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खिळा, नख…
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くぎ, (手足の)つめ, 釘(くぎ)…
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çivi, tırnak, suç işleyen bir kişiyi yakalamak…
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clou [masculine], ongle [masculine], clouer…
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clau, ungla…
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nagel, spijker, (vast)spijkeren…
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ஒரு கூர்மையான முனை மற்றும் ஒரு தட்டையான முனை கொண்ட ஒரு சிறிய, மெல்லிய உலோகத் துண்டு, நீங்கள் ஒரு சுத்தியலால் எதையாவது அடிக்கிறீர்கள்…
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कील, नाखून…
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ખીલી, નખ…
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negl, -negl, søm…
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nagel, spik, spika fast…
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kuku, paku, memakukan…
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der Nagel, nageln…
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spiker [masculine], negl [masculine], spikre…
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کیل, میخ, کھونٹا…
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ніготь, кіготь, цвях…
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гвоздь, ноготь, поймать…
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మేకు, ఒక కొన చివర మరియు ఒక ఫ్లాట్ ఎండ్ కలిగిన చిన్న, సన్నని లోహపు ముక్క మీరు సుత్తితో దేనినైనా కొట్టండి…
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مِسْمار, ظِفْر…
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পেরেক, নখ…
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nehet, hřebík, přibít…
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kuku, paku, memaku…
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เล็บ, ตะปู, ตอกตะปู…
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móng, cái đinh, đóng đinh…
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gwóźdź, paznokieć, przyszpilić…
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못, 손톱…
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chiodo, unghia, inchiodare…
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nah
Nahua
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nail
nail a lie idiom
nail art
nail bar
nail file
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nail file
nail polish
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nail bar
nail-biter
nail-biting
nail salon
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Phrasal Verbs
nail something down
nail sth down
nail sb down
nail something on
nail someone down
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Idioms and phrases
(as) tough as nails idiom
nail a lie idiom
fight tooth and nail idiom
hit the nail on the head idiom
another/the final nail in the coffin idiom
nail your colours to the mast idiom
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esteem
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respect for or a good opinion of someone
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Contents
English
Noun
nail (METAL)
nail (BODY PART)
Verb
nail (FASTEN)
nail (CATCH)
nail (SUCCEED)
nail (HIT)
American
Noun
nail (METAL)
nail (BODY PART)
Verb
nail (FASTEN)
Business
Verb
Noun
on the nail
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Nail | Structure, Function, Growth | Britannica
Nail | Structure, Function, Growth | Britannica
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Table of Contents
Introduction
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Table of Contents
human nail
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hoof
keratin
claw
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unguis
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nail, in the anatomy of humans and other primates, horny plate that grows on the back of each finger and toe at its outer end. It corresponds to the claw, hoof, or talon of other vertebrates. The nail is a platelike, keratinous, translucent structure that consists of highly specialized epithelial cells. The nail grows from a deep groove in the dermis of the skin. All nail growth occurs at the nail’s base, where the specialized cells that make up the nail’s plate are produced; these cells are pushed forward as new cells form behind them. The nail plate is also attached to the underlying, richly vascularized nail bed, which supplies the plate with necessary nutrients. The cells at the front edge of the nail plate die and turn white as they lose contact with the nail bed. The whitish, crescent-moon-shaped part of the nail, known as the lunula, is also not attached to the underlying nail bed. The nail’s chief function is to protect the terminal portions of the toes and fingers. On the fingers, the front edge of the nail assists in the manipulation of small objects, as well as in scratching.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Richard Pallardy.
Nail Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
Nail Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
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Est. 1828
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nail
1 of 2
noun
ˈnāl
Synonyms of nail
1
a
: a horny sheath protecting the upper end of each finger and toe of humans and most other primates
b
: a structure (such as a claw) that terminates a digit and corresponds to a nail
2
: a slender usually pointed and headed fastener designed to be pounded in
nail
2 of 2
verb
nailed; nailing; nails
transitive verb
1
: to fasten with or as if with a nail
2
: to fix in steady attention
nailed his eye on the crack
3
a
: catch, trap
b
: to expose usually so as to discredit
c
: to arrest or punish for an offense
4
a
: to hit or strike in a forceful manner : whack sense 1a
nailed the ball nailed him on the head with a rock
b
: to put out (a runner) in baseball
5
: to perform or complete perfectly or impressively
nailed a jump shot
6
: to gain or win decisively
—often used with downnail down their consent
7
: to settle, establish, or represent clearly and unmistakably
—often used with down
8
usually vulgar
: to copulate with
nailer
noun
Synonyms
Verb
bang
bash
bat
belt
biff
bludgeon
bob
bonk
bop
box
bust
clap
clip
clobber
clock
clout
crack
hammer
hit
knock
paste
pound
punch
rap
slam
slap
slog
slug
smack
smite
sock
strike
swat
swipe
tag
thump
thwack
wallop
whack
whale
zap
See all Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus
Examples of nail in a Sentence
Noun
a hammer and some nails
I get my nails done at the beauty salon every other week.
a pair of nail clippers
Verb
Nail the picture to the wall.
All the doors were nailed shut.
He got nailed by his parents while trying to sneak out of the house.
He got nailed for not paying his taxes.
The FBI has nailed the hackers.
See More
Recent Examples on the WebNoun
Indeed, as far as setting direction goes, Mirror Indy hit the nail on the head.
—Subramaniam Vincent, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024
Many Ukrainian women have felt a deep sense of patriotism and duty to jumpstart the economy, while salon patrons get their hair cut and nails done to take control—and find normalcy—in an unstable time.
—Longreads, 1 Mar. 2024
Manicurist Betina Goldstein, who frequently works with Robbie and has been an integral part of the Barbie press tour, looked to one of Barbie's most iconic accessories when doing Robbie's nails for the night: her shoes!
—Kara Nesvig, Allure, 26 Feb. 2024
The San Diego Union-Tribune’s editorial endorsing Prop. 1 hit the nail on the head.
—The San Diego Union-Tribune Staff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2024
Employees reacted with a wildcat strike that served to drive another nail into the coffin.
—Richard Selcer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Feb. 2024
Fans flooded the nail tech’s post to comment on Blanco’s dedication to Gomez, 31.
—Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 23 Feb. 2024
Mel Fortson, a licensed nail tech with a studio in Jonesboro, said one of her clients rescheduled an appointment over Instagram because her cell service was affected.
—Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Staff and Wire Reports, arkansasonline.com, 23 Feb. 2024
There were days when nail artists did manicures and pedicures wearing headlamps.
—Sophia Panych, Allure, 22 Feb. 2024
Verb
But so was the dialogue, and this is where Cerda really nails it.
—Nina Metz, chicagotribune.com, 20 June 2017
Marist coach Colleen Biebel also sent Garofalo, who was nailed at home on a perfect relay throw from Barrington shortstop Julia Kozar.
—Tony Baranek, Daily Southtown, 10 June 2017
And making sure Johnson nailed all those backing vocals.
—Matt Wake, AL.com, 9 June 2017
Some houses had bathtubs, mirrors, furniture, crosses nailed to the wall.
—Washington Post, 5 June 2017
By nailing down Chance as the festival’s finale, before even his star-making turn at this year’s Grammy Awards, Sasquatch! grabbed one of this year’s marquee live acts for their youthful audience.
—Charles R. Cross, The Seattle Times, 24 May 2017
Why does Apple nail what channel the Cavs game is on but Google does not?
—Alexis C. Madrigal, The Atlantic, 18 May 2017
Finally, in 2011, Shell and Eni paid the government $1.3 billion, including about $200 million as a signature bonus -- a onetime fee charged by some oil-producing nations -- to nail down the contract once and for all.
—Chiara Albanese, Bloomberg.com, 9 May 2017
How could anyone nail both the keys and the rhythms with perfect accuracy?
—David Pogue, Scientific American, 3 July 2017
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'nail.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Noun
Middle English, from Old English nægl; akin to Old High German nagal nail, fingernail, Latin unguis fingernail, toenail, claw, Greek onyx
First Known Use
Noun
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a Verb
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of nail was
before the 12th century
See more words from the same century
Phrases Containing nail
a nail in the/someone's coffin
eightpenny nail
coffin nail
hit the nail on the head
nail bed
nail down
nail file
tooth and nail
sixpenny nail
nail varnish
nail polish
nail-biter
tenpenny nail
Articles Related to nail
'Muskrat,' 'Helpmate,' and 6 More Folk...
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Dictionary Entries Near nail
Naikpod
nail
nailability
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Merriam-Webster
“Nail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nail. Accessed 11 Mar. 2024.
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Kids Definition
nail
1 of 2
noun
ˈnā(ə)l
1
: a horny covering at the end of the fingers and toes of human beings, apes, and monkeys
also
: a similar structure (as a claw) in other animals
2
: a slender usually pointed fastener with a head designed to be pounded in
nail
2 of 2
verb
1
: to fasten with or as if with a nail
2
: catch entry 1 sense 1, trap
nail a thief
3
: to hit or strike in a forceful or accurate way
nailed the ball
4
: to complete successfully
nailed the dismount
5
: to settle, establish, or represent clearly and unmistakably
nail down all the details
nailer
noun
Medical Definition
nail
noun
ˈnā(ə)l
1
: a horny sheath of thickened and condensed epithelial stratum lucidum that grows out from a vascular matrix of dermis and protects the upper surface of the end of each finger and toe of humans and most other primates and that is strictly homologous with the hoof or claw of other mammals from which it differs chiefly in shape and size
called also
nail plate
2
: a structure (as a claw) that terminates a digit and corresponds to a nail
3
: a rod (as of metal) used to fix the parts of a broken bone in normal relation
a medullary nail
More from Merriam-Webster on nail
Nglish: Translation of nail for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of nail for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nail
Last Updated:
10 Mar 2024
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Nail (anatomy) - Wikipedia
Nail (anatomy) - Wikipedia
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1Structure
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1.1Parts of the nail
1.1.1Eponychium
1.1.2Paronychium
1.1.3Hyponychium
2Function
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2.1Growth
2.2Permeability
3Clinical significance
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3.1Health and care
3.2Effect of nutrition
4Society and culture
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4.1Fashion
4.2Length records
5Evolution in primates
6See also
7References
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Nail (anatomy)
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العربيةAragonésܐܪܡܝܐԱրեւմտահայերէնAsturianuAtikamekwAvañe'ẽАварAymar aruAzərbaycancaتۆرکجهবাংলাBân-lâm-gúБеларускаяБеларуская (тарашкевіца)Bikol CentralБългарскиBosanskiBrezhonegCatalàЧӑвашлаČeštinaChiShonaDanskDeutschEestiΕλληνικάEmiliàn e rumagnòlEspañolEsperantoEuskaraفارسیFrançaisFryskGaeilgeGalego贛語ગુજરાતી客家語/Hak-kâ-ngî한국어HausaՀայերենहिन्दीHrvatskiIdoBahasa IndonesiaItalianoעבריתJawaಕನ್ನಡქართულიКомиKreyòl ayisyenKurdîКыргызчаЛаккуLatinaLatviešuLietuviųLingálaLombardMagyarМакедонскиმარგალურიمازِرونیBahasa Melayu閩東語 / Mìng-dĕ̤ng-ngṳ̄Na Vosa VakavitiNederlands日本語Norsk bokmålNorsk nynorskOccitanOʻzbekcha / ўзбекчаPangasinanپنجابیپښتوPolskiPortuguêsRomânăRuna SimiРусскийСаха тылаSakizayaसंस्कृतम्ᱥᱟᱱᱛᱟᱲᱤShqipසිංහලSimple EnglishسنڌيSlovenčinaSlovenščinaSoomaaligaکوردیСрпски / srpskiSrpskohrvatski / српскохрватскиSundaSuomiSvenskaTagalogதமிழ்TaqbaylitТатарча / tatarçaతెలుగుТоҷикӣತುಳುTürkçeTyapУкраїнськаاردوTiếng ViệtVõroWinaray吴语ייִדישYorùbá粵語Zazaki中文
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Hard keratin protection of digit
This article is about the anatomical features of primates' digits. For the structure on some birds' beaks, see Nail (beak).
"toenail", "fingernail", and "paronychium" redirect here. For the construction technique, see toenailing. For the 2023 film, see Fingernails (film). For parenchyme, see parenchyma.
This article uses anatomical terminology.
NailHuman fingernailsDetailsSystemIntegumentary systemIdentifiersLatinunguisMeSHD009262TA98A16.0.01.001TA27065THH3.12.00.3.02001 FMA54326Anatomical terminology[edit on Wikidata]
A nail is a protective plate characteristically found at the tip of the digits (fingers and toes) of all primates, corresponding to the claws in other tetrapod animals. Fingernails and toenails are made of a tough rigid protein called alpha-keratin, a polymer also found in the claws, hooves and horns of vertebrates.[1]
Structure[edit]
A. Nail plate; B. lunula; C. root; D. sinus; E. matrix; F. nail bed; G. hyponychium; H. free margin.
The nail consists of the nail plate, the nail matrix and the nail bed below it, and the grooves surrounding it.[2]
Parts of the nail[edit]
The nail matrix is the active tissue (or germinal matrix) that generates cells. The cells harden as they move outward from the nail root to the nail plate.[3] The nail matrix is also known as the matrix unguis, keratogenous membrane, or onychostroma.[4] It is the part of the nail bed that is beneath the nail and contains nerves, lymph and blood vessels. The matrix produces cells that become the nail plate. The width and thickness of the nail plate is determined by the size, length, and thickness of the matrix, while the shape of the fingertip bone determines if the nail plate is flat, arched, or hooked. The matrix will continue to produce cells as long as it receives nutrition and remains in a healthy condition.[5] As new nail plate cells are made, they push older nail plate cells forward; and in this way older cells become compressed, flat, and translucent. This makes the capillaries in the nail bed below visible, resulting in a pink color.[citation needed]
The lunula ("small moon") is the visible part of the matrix, the whitish crescent-shaped base of the visible nail. The lunula can best be seen in the thumb and may not be visible in the little finger. The lunula appears white due to a reflection of light at the point where the nail matrix and nail bed meet.
The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate. It is the area of the nail on which the nail plate rests. Nerves and blood vessels found here supply nourishment to the entire nail unit. Like all skin, it is made of two types of tissues: the dermis and the epidermis. The epidermis is attached to the dermis by tiny longitudinal "grooves" called matrix crests (cristae matricis unguis).[3] In old age, the nail plate becomes thinner, and these grooves become more visible.[citation needed] The nail bed is highly innervated, and removal of the nail plate is often excruciatingly painful as a result.[citation needed]
The nail sinus (sinus unguis) is where the nail root is;[3] i.e. the base of the nail underneath the skin. It originates from the actively growing tissue below, the matrix.[citation needed]
The nail plate (corpus unguis)[3] sometimes referred to as the nail body, is the visible hard nail area from the nail root to the free edge, made of translucent keratin protein. Several layers of dead, compacted cells cause the nail to be strong but flexible. Its (transverse) shape is determined by the form of the underlying bone.[citation needed] In common usage, the word nail often refers to this part only. The nail plate is strongly attached to the nail bed and does not contain any nerves or blood vessels.
The free margin (margo liber) or distal edge is the anterior margin of the nail plate corresponds to the abrasive or cutting edge of the nail.[3]
The hyponychium (informally known as the "quick")[6] is the epithelium located beneath the nail plate at the junction between the free edge and the skin of the fingertip. It forms a seal that protects the nail bed. The onychodermal band is the seal between the nail plate and the hyponychium. It is just under the free edge, in that portion of the nail where the nail bed ends and can be recognized in fair-skinned people by its glassy, greyish colour. It is not visible in some individuals while it is highly prominent on others.[citation needed]
Eponychium[edit]
Together, the eponychium and the cuticle form a protective seal. The cuticle is the semi-circular layer of almost invisible dead skin cells that "ride out on" and cover the back of the visible nail plate. The eponychium is the fold of skin cells that produces the cuticle. They are continuous, and some references view them as one entity. (Thus the names eponychium, cuticle, and perionychium would be synonymous,[7] although a distinction is still drawn here.) It is the cuticle (nonliving part) that is removed during a manicure, but the eponychium (living part) should not be touched due to risk of infection.[citation needed] The eponychium is a small band of living cells (epithelium) that extends from the posterior nail wall onto the base of the nail.[3] The eponychium is the end of the proximal fold that folds back upon itself to shed an epidermal layer of skin onto the newly formed nail plate.[contradictory] The perionyx is the projecting edge of the eponychium covering the proximal strip of the lunula.[3]
The nail wall (vallum unguis) is the cutaneous fold overlapping the sides and proximal end of the nail. The lateral margin (margo lateralis) lies beneath the nail wall on the sides of the nail, and the nail groove or fold (sulcus matricis unguis) are the cutaneous slits into which the lateral margins are embedded.[3]
Paronychium[edit]
The paronychium is the soft tissue border around the nail,[8] and paronychia is an infection in this area.
The paronychium is the skin that overlaps onto the sides of the nail plate, also known as the paronychial edge. The paronychium is the site of hangnails, ingrown nails, and paronychia, a skin infection.
Hyponychium[edit]
The hyponychium is the area of epithelium, particularly the thickened portion, underlying the free edge of the nail plate. It is sometimes called the "quick", as in the phrase "cutting to the quick".
Function[edit]
A healthy fingernail has the function of protecting the distal phalanx, the fingertip, and the surrounding soft tissues from injuries. It also serves to enhance precise delicate movements of the distal digits through counter-pressure exerted on the pulp of the finger.[2]
The nail then acts as a counter-force when the end of the finger touches an object, thereby enhancing the sensitivity of the fingertip,[9] although the nail itself has no nerve endings.
Finally, the nail functions as a tool enabling a so-called "extended precision grip" (e.g., pulling out a splinter in one's finger), and certain cutting or scraping actions.
Growth[edit]
The growing part of the nail is under the skin at the nail's proximal end under the epidermis, which is the only living part of a nail.
In mammals, the growth rate of nails is related to the length of the terminal phalanges (outermost finger bones). Thus, in humans, the nail of the index finger grows faster than that of the little finger; and fingernails grow up to four times faster than toenails.[10]
In humans, fingernails grow at an average rate of approx. 3.5 mm (0.14 in) a month, whereas toenails grow about half as fast (approx. average 1.6 mm (0.063 in) a month).[11] Fingernails require three to six months to regrow completely, and toenails require twelve to eighteen months. Actual growth rate is dependent upon age, sex, season, exercise level, diet, and hereditary factors.[12]
The longest female nails known ever to have existed measured a total of 8.65 m (28 ft 4.5 in).[13] Contrary to popular belief, nails do not continue to grow after death; the skin dehydrates and tightens, making the nails (and hair) appear to grow.[14]
Permeability[edit]
The nail is often considered an impermeable barrier, but this is not true. In fact, it is much more permeable than the skin,[15] and the composition of the nail includes 7–12% water. This permeability has implications for penetration by harmful and medicinal substances; in particular cosmetics applied to the nails can pose a risk. Water can penetrate the nail as can many other substances including paraquat, a fast acting herbicide that is harmful to humans, urea which is often an ingredient in creams and lotions meant for use on hands and fingers, and several fungicidal agents such as salicylic acid, miconazole branded Monistat, natamycin; and sodium hypochlorite which is the active ingredient in common household bleach (but usually only in 2–3% concentration).[15]
Clinical significance[edit]
Main article: Nail disease
Thumbnail of the right hand with cuticle (left) and hangnail (top)
Healthcare and pre-hospital-care providers (EMTs or paramedics) often use the fingernail beds as a cursory indicator of distal tissue perfusion of individuals who may be dehydrated or in shock.[16] However, this test is not considered reliable in adults.[17] This is known as the CRT or blanch test. The fingernail bed is briefly depressed to turn the nail-bed white. When the pressure is released, the normal pink colour should be restored within a second or two. Delayed return to pink color can be an indicator of certain shock states such as hypovolemia.[18][19]
Nail growth record can show the history of recent health and physiological imbalances, and has been used as a diagnostic tool since ancient times.[20] Deep, horizontally transverse grooves known as "Beau's lines" may form across the nails (horizontal, not along the nail from cuticle to tip). These lines are usually a natural consequence of aging, although they may result from disease. Discoloration, thinning, thickening, brittleness, splitting, grooves, Mees' lines, small white spots, receded lunula, clubbing (convex), flatness, and spooning (concave) can indicate illness in other areas of the body, nutrient deficiencies, drug reaction or poisoning, or merely local injury.
Nails can also become thickened (onychogryphosis), loosened (onycholysis), infected with fungus (onychomycosis), or degenerate (onychodystrophy). A common nail disorder is an ingrowing toenail (onychocryptosis).
DNA profiling is a technique employed by forensic scientists on hair, fingernails, toenails, etc.
Health and care[edit]
A set of professional nail care tools
The best way to care for nails is to trim them regularly. Filing is also recommended, as to keep nails from becoming too rough and to remove any small bumps or ridges that may cause the nail to get tangled up in materials such as cloth.[21]
Bluish or purple fingernail beds may be a symptom of peripheral cyanosis, which indicates oxygen deprivation.
Nails can dry out, just like skin. They can also peel, break, and be infected. Toe infections, for instance, can be caused or exacerbated by dirty socks, specific types of aggressive exercise (long-distance running), tight footwear, and walking unprotected in an unclean environment.[citation needed] Common organisms causing nail infections include yeasts and molds (particularly dermatophytes).[22]
Nail tools used by different people may transmit infections. Standard hygiene and sanitation procedures avoid transmission. In some cases, gel and cream cuticle removers can be used instead of cuticle scissors.
Nail disease can be very subtle and should be evaluated by a dermatologist with a focus in this particular area of medicine. However, most times it is a nail stylist who will note a subtle change in nail disease.
Inherited accessory nail of the fifth toe occurs where the toenail of the smallest toe is separated, forming a smaller "sixth toenail" in the outer corner of the nail.[23] Like any other nail, it can be cut using a nail clipper.
Effect of nutrition[edit]
Biotin-rich foods and supplements may help strengthen brittle fingernails.[24]
Vitamin A is an essential micronutrient for vision, reproduction, cell and tissue differentiation, and immune function. Vitamin D and calcium work together in cases of maintaining homeostasis, creating muscle contraction, transmission of nerve pulses, blood clotting, and membrane structure. A lack of vitamin A, vitamin D, or calcium can cause dryness and brittleness.
Insufficient vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, darkened nails, and rounded or curved nail ends. Insufficient intake of both vitamin A and B results in fragile nails with horizontal and vertical ridges. Some over-the-counter vitamin supplements such as certain multivitamins and biotin may help in growth of strong nails, although this is quite subjective. Both vitamin B12 and folate play a role in red blood cell production and oxygen transportation to nail cells. Inadequacies can result in discoloration of the nails.[25]
Diminished dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to dry and brittle nails.[26]
Protein is a building material for new nails; therefore, low dietary protein intake may cause anemia and the resultant reduced hemoglobin in the blood filling the capillaries of the nail bed reflects varying amounts of light incident on the nail matrix resulting in lighter shades of pink ultimately resulting in white nail beds when the hemoglobin is very low. When hemoglobin is close to 15 or 16 grams, most of the spectrum of light is absorbed and only the pink color is reflected back and the nails look pink.
Essential fatty acids play a large role in healthy skin as well as nails. Splitting and flaking of nails may be due to a lack of linoleic acid.
Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to a pale color along with a thin, brittle, ridged texture. Iron deficiency in general may cause the nails to become flat or concave, rather than convex. As oxygen is needed for healthy nails, an iron deficiency or anemia can lead to vertical ridges or concavity in the nails.[27] RDAs for iron vary considerably depending on age and gender. The recommendation for men is 8 mg per day, while that of women aged 19–50 is 18 mg per day. After women hit age 50 or go through menopause, their iron needs drop to 8 mg daily.[28][29]
Society and culture[edit]
Fashion[edit]
Main articles: manicure and pedicure
Toenails painted with magenta nail polish
Manicures (for the hands) and pedicures (for the feet) are health and cosmetic procedures to groom, trim, and paint the nails and manage calluses. They require various tools such as cuticle scissors, nail scissors, nail clippers, and nail files. Artificial nails can also be fixed onto real nails for cosmetic purposes.
A person whose occupation is to cut, shape and care for nails as well as to apply overlays such as acrylic and UV gel is sometimes called a nail stylist. The place where a nail stylist works may be a nail salon or nail shop or nail bar.Nail art
Acrylic nails are made out of acrylic glass (PMMA). When it is mixed with a liquid monomer (usually ethyl methacrylate mixed with some inhibitor) it forms a malleable bead. This mixture begins to cure immediately, continuing until completely solid in minutes. Acrylic nails can last up to 21 days but can last longer with touch-ups. To give acrylic nails color, gel polish, nail polish, and dip powders can be applied.[30]
Painting the nails with colored nail polish (also called nail lacquer and nail varnish) to improve the appearance is a common practice dating back to at least 3000 B.C.
Gel nails can be utilized in order to create artificial nail extensions, but can also be used like nail polish. They are hardened using ultraviolet light. They last longer than regular nail polish and do not chip. They have a high-gloss finish and last for two to three weeks.[31]
Nail wraps are formed by cutting pieces of fiberglass, linen, silk fabric, or another material to fit on the surface of the nail (or a tip attached prior), to be sealed onto the nail plate with a layer of resin or glue. They do not damage the nail and also provide strength to the nail but are not used to lengthen it. It can also be used to fix broken nails. The treatment is however more expensive.
With the dip powder method, a clear liquid is brushed onto a nail and the nail is then placed into pigmented powder.[32] Dip nails tend to last about a month, 2–3 weeks longer than gel and acrylic nails. It can be worn on natural nails, or with tips to create an artificial nail. Dip powder nails do not require any UV/LED light to be cured, instead they are sealed using an activator.[citation needed] The quickest way to remove dip powder is to drill, clip off, or buff out layers of the powder so, when they are soaking in acetone, they slide right off.[33][34]
Length records[edit]
Guinness World Records began tracking record fingernail lengths in 1955, when a Chinese priest was listed as having fingernails 1 foot 10.75 inches (57.79 cm) long.
The current record-holder for men, according to Guinness, is Shridhar Chillal from India who set the record in 1998 with a total of 20 feet 2.25 inches (615.32 cm) of nails on his left hand. His longest nail, on his thumb, was 4 feet 9.6 inches (146.3 cm) long.
The record-holder for women is Lee Redmond of the U.S., who set the record in 2001 and as of 2008 had nails with a total length on both hands of 28 feet (850 cm), with the longest nail on her right thumb at 2 feet 11 inches (89 cm).[35]
Evolution in primates[edit]
Nails are a distinguishing feature of the primate order.
The nail is an unguis, meaning a keratin structure at the end of a digit. Other examples of ungues include the claw, hoof, and talon. The nails of primates and the hooves of running mammals evolved from the claws of earlier animals.[36]
In contrast to nails, claws are typically curved ventrally (downwards in animals) and compressed sideways. They serve a multitude of functions—including climbing, digging, and fighting—and have undergone numerous adaptive changes in different animal taxa. Claws are pointed at their ends and are composed of two layers: a thick, deep layer and a superficial, hardened layer which serves a protective function. The underlying bone is a virtual mold of the overlying horny structure and therefore has the same shape as the claw or nail. Compared to claws, nails are flat, less curved, and do not extend far beyond the tip of the digits. The ends of the nails usually consist only of the "superficial", hardened layer and are not pointed like claws.[36]
With only a few exceptions, primates retain plesiomorphic (original, "primitive") hands with five digits, each equipped with either a nail or a claw. For example, nearly all living strepsirrhine primates have nails on all digits except the second toe which is equipped with a grooming claw. Tarsiers have a grooming claw on second and third toes. Less commonly known, a grooming claw is also found on the second pedal digit of owl monkeys (Aotus), titis (Callicebus), and possibly other New World monkeys.[37] The needle-clawed bushbaby (Euoticus) has keeled nails (the thumb and the first and the second toes have claws) featuring a central ridge that ends in a needle-like tip.
A study of the fingertip morphology of four small-bodied New World monkey species indicated a correlation between increasing small-branch foraging and:
expanded apical pads (fingertips),
developed epidermal ridges (fingerprints),
broadened distal parts of distal phalanges (fingertip bones), and
reduced flexor and extensor tubercles (attachment areas for finger muscles on bones).
This suggests that whereas claws are useful on large-diameter branches, wide fingertips with nails and epidermal ridges were required for habitual locomotion on small-diameter branches. It also indicates keel-shaped nails of Callitrichines (a family of New World monkeys) is a derived postural adaptation rather than retained ancestral condition.[38]
See also[edit]
List of cutaneous conditions
Nail disease
Foot fetishism
Hand fetishism
Onychogryphosis, overgrown, claw-like nails
References[edit]
^ Wang, Bin (2016). "Keratin: Structure, mechanical properties, occurrence in biological organisms, and efforts at bioinspiration" (PDF). Progress in Materials Science. 76: 229–318. doi:10.1016/j.pmatsci.2015.06.001.
^ a b Onumah, Neh; Scher, Richard K (May 2009). "Nail Surgery". eMedicine. Retrieved 10 March 2010.
^ a b c d e f g h Feneis, Heinz (2000). Pocket Atlas of Human Anatomy (4th ed.). Thieme. pp. 392–95. ISBN 3-13-511204-7.[dead link]
^ "Nail matrix". Biology Online. 2005. Retrieved 10 March 2010.
^ D. Schoon, Dougles (2005). Nail Structure and Products Chemistry. Milady. p. 6.
^ Crouch, James Ensign (1985). Functional human anatomy. Lea & Febiger. p. 80. ISBN 9780812109306.
^ Elsevier, Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary, Elsevier.
^ Jordan, Christopher; Mirzabeigi, Edwin (2000-04-01). Atlas of orthopaedic surgical exposures. Thieme. p. 101. ISBN 0-86577-776-4.
^ Wang, Quincy C; Johnson, Brett A (May 2001). "Fingertip Injuries". American Family Physician. 63 (10): 1961–6. PMID 11388710. Archived from the original on 13 October 2008. Retrieved 10 March 2010.
^ Cartmill, Matt; Lemelin, Pierre; Schmitt, Daniel (2007). "Primate Gaits and Primate Origins". In Ravosa, Matthew J.; Dagosto, Marian (eds.). Primate Origins: Adaptations and Evolution. pp. 403–35. doi:10.1007/978-0-387-33507-0_12. ISBN 978-0-387-30335-2.
^ Yaemsiri, S.; Hou, N.; Slining, M. M.; He, K. (2010). "Growth rate of human fingernails and toenails in healthy American young adults". Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 24 (4): 420–423. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03426.x. ISSN 1468-3083. PMID 19744178. S2CID 856692.
^ Hunter, J. A. A., Savin, J., & Dahl, M. V. (2002). Clinical dermatology. Malden, Mass: Blackwell Science. p. 173. ISBN 0-632-05916-8
^ "A nail-biting encounter with the woman who has the longest fingernails". Guinness World Records. 2019-11-04. Retrieved 2020-11-07.
^ Vreeman, R. C; Carroll, A. E (2007). "Medical myths". BMJ. 335 (7633): 1288–9. doi:10.1136/bmj.39420.420370.25. PMC 2151163. PMID 18156231.
^ a b K. A. Walters and G. L. Flynn, Permeability characteristics of the human nail plate, International Journal of Cosmetic Science 5, 231–46 (1983)
^ Monterey County EMS Manual Archived 2008-12-16 at the Wayback Machine. Chapter XI, Patient assessment.
^ Schriger DL, Baraff LJ (Jun 1991). "Capillary refill – is it a useful predictor of hypovolemic states?". Ann Emerg Med. 20 (6): 601–15. doi:10.1016/S0196-0644(05)82375-3. PMID 2039096.
^ MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Capillary nail refill test
^ St. Luke's Hospital. Capillary nail refill test.
^ American Academy of Dermatology – Nail Health
^ Cohen, Philip R.; Scher, Richard K. (1992-04-01). "Geriatric nail disorders: Diagnosis and treatment". Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 26 (4): 521–531. doi:10.1016/0190-9622(92)70075-Q. ISSN 0190-9622. PMID 1597537.
^ Denning, DW; Evans, EG; Kibbler, CC; Richardson, MD; Roberts, MM; Rogers, TR; Warnock, DW; Warren, RE (November 11, 1995). "Fungal nail disease: a guide to good practice (report of a Working Group of the British Society for Medical Mycology)". British Medical Journal. 311 (7015): 1277–81. doi:10.1136/bmj.311.7015.1277. PMC 2551187. PMID 7496239.
^ Haneke E (May 2016). "Double Nail of the Little Toe". Skin Appendage Disorders. 1 (4): 163–7. doi:10.1159/000443378. PMC 4908446. PMID 27386457.
^ "Biotin". Office of Dietary Supplements, US National Institutes of Health. 10 January 2022. Retrieved 15 July 2023.
^ Langan, Robert C.; Zawistoski, Kimberly J. (15 June 2011). "Update on Vitamin B12 Deficiency". American Family Physician. 83 (12): 1425–1430. PMID 21671542.
^
Zempleni, J; R.B. Rucker; D.B. McCormick; J.W. Suttie (2007). Handbook of vitamins (4th ed.).[page needed]
^ Singal, Archana; Arora, Rahul (2015). "Nail as a window of systemic diseases". Indian Dermatology Online Journal. 6 (2): 67–74. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.153002. PMC 4375768. PMID 25821724.
^ "- Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D - NCBI Bookshelf". 2011.
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^ "Secret Ingredient: Acrylic Liquid".
^ "Gel Manicures Look Good, but What's the Damage to Your Nails?". 12 October 2019.
^ "Everything You Need to Know About Dip Powder Nails". 3 January 2017.
^ Simms, Janet (2003). A Practical Guide to Beauty Therapy for NVQ Level 2. Nelson Thornes. ISBN 9780748771509.
^ "How to Remove Dip Nails at Home". 14 April 2020.
^ "Crash breaks woman's record-length fingernails". NBCNews. December 2009.
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^
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Hamrick, Mark W. (1998). "Functional and adaptive significance of primate pads and claws: Evidence from New World anthropoids". American Journal of Physical Anthropology. Wiley-Liss. 106 (2): 113–27. doi:10.1002/(SICI)1096-8644(199806)106:2<113::AID-AJPA2>3.0.CO;2-R. PMID 9637179.
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68 Cute Acrylic Nail Ideas and Designs for Every Season — See Photos | Allure
ute Acrylic Nail Ideas and Designs for Every Season — See Photos | AllureSkip to main contentNewsletterSign InSearchSearchBest of Beauty 2023NewsSkinMakeupHairNailsWellnessShoppingAllure Beauty BoxNewsletterVideoIDYLLIC ACRYLIC68 Acrylic Nail Ideas That Never Go Out of StyleIncluding sparkles, gems, and so much more.By Gabi Thorne and Annie BlayAugust 1, 2023Save StoryRachel PickusSave StoryThe wonderful world of acrylic nails is home to so many fun and innovative designs. Although they're frequently associated with extra-long looks, acrylics actually let you experiment with different lengths and interesting styles, whether you want a short, square French manicure or a set of lengthy, neon-pink, stiletto-shaped nails.You'll want to make sure you love the nail art design you choose because these manicures are long-lasting. Acrylics tend to be stronger than gel nails, nail artist Brittney Boyce previously told Allure. 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Pennsylvania-based artist Symfani nailed the contrast between orange and yellow in this eye-catching mani. If you look closely, you’ll also see the silver nail gems that add a subtle sparkle.PinterestNailsxkaiit8/68Vacation floralsIf you can’t make it to the tropics this year, bring the island vibes to your nails with this colorful floral French manicure. We love the way Texas-based nail artist Kaitlyn of Nailsxkaiit mixed two classic designs and incorporated bright colors to create this vibrant summer art.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@syellenails9/68On the farmCow print has been a super popular nail trend for a while now, but Georgia-based nail artist Sydney Martin demonstrates a new way to incorporate the design. Ditch the usual white and black for a clear base with baby-blue splotches, as seen on these extra-long, tapered, square nails. PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@talontedgrip10/68Sharp anglesYou may be used to seeing dramatically long acrylic nails, but they don't always have to be lengthy. Just look at this manicure from Brooklyn-based nail artist Meisty Gawdess. The length is perfect for those who are intimidated by longer styles or live a lifestyle where shorter nails are a must. We love each bright shade she chose to create the angled lines at the tips of this square-shaped set.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@fetishfornails11/68Nostalgic memoriesHello Kitty was a fixture in many of our lives and Houston-based nail artist Jasmine created a perfect tribute to the fictional character with this neon manicure. Jasmine's known for her ‘90s-influenced designs, and we can definitely see that here, especially on the middle and index fingers. We love the way the 3D decals, like Hello Kitty's face, look next to the abstract art.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@kreationsbykiki12/68WhiteoutYou can never go wrong with a chalk-white set, like these nails from Durham, NC-based nail artist Kiea Taylor. She elevated the simple set with an encapsulated accent nail on each hand. Look closely and you'll see the pieces of iridescent and gold glitter flecks.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@badgal.nails13/68MismatchedPlaying around with different acrylic nail designs on each finger makes for more fun than sticking to just one look. And this mismatched manicure, created by Brooklyn-based Jasmine Lewis, is proof. We can't decide which nail we like best, but the way she incorporated bright yellow, orange, pink, green, and blue is impressive.More from Allure38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next Manicure14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery FinishEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, TooThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day LongPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@___myaa.nicole_nails14/68Slanted tipsCincinnati-based nail artist Myaa Nicole created this gorgeous lipstick-shaped manicure that plays with neon pink, canary yellow, and lavender. We like the way one hand has swirls that transition between the three shades while the other hand has small blobs of each color. Of course, Nicole had to add some bling, but she switched it up on each hand. One index finger is completely covered in silver caviar jewels while the ring finger on the other hand has silver gems arranged in swirly loops.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@zeynailz15/68The new French manicureLondon-based nail artist Zey is responsible for artfully painting this nude French manicure. These C-curve tips are completely hollow and outlined simply in a tan, white, or brown color. The ring finger has Powerpuff Girls-inspired hearts in a series of similar shades. Pinterest16/68Head in the cloudsAtlanta-based nail artist Jasmine Jones put together this sheer pink manicure with cloudy white accents. She also added tiny star details to each nail, plus some 3D jewels because who doesn't love a little sparkle? This extremely long manicure has two nail shapes instead of one: The index and pinky fingers are lengthy stilettos, while the middle and ring fingers take on a tapered, square shape.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@designingwithsophia17/68Sprinkles on topThese long, square nails almost look good enough to eat with the chocolate sprinkles and white swirls of polish meant to represent whipped cream. Houston-based nail artist Sophia Rice painted this ice cream-inspired set that started with a light brown acrylic base.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@clawsbyzee18/68Mix it upBrooklyn-based nail artist Zariah Tulloch marbled colored acrylic powders to create this glittery manicure. She added flecks of blue glitters to the swirled creation full of bright, summery shades. Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@_nailsbyelisha19/68Cherries on topAnother French manicure — but this time on an oval-shaped set. UK-based manicurist Elisha Emilius created white, C-curve tips for these medium-length nails. With a dotting tool and a fine-detail brush, she added dots of red polish to form the cherries and lines of green for the stems.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@agaloreco20/68Dot workNew York City-based Alba Marina added colorful neon dots to this nude manicure. The tiny circles increase in size the closer you get to the tips. The square-shaped, medium-length manicure is the perfect style for work if you're looking for just a touch of color to wake up your nudes.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@thetyratales21/68Gator cityThere are so many animal prints to try, like the croc print in this green manicure. The olive hue contrasts well with the lighter lime shade. These long, coffin-shaped nails belong to Tyra A. Seals, one of the founders of BlkGirlNailfies, where she helps curate a gorgeous Instagram feed of nail selfies, or nailfies, from Black women.More from Allure14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery Finish38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicureThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day LongEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, TooPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailsbydaovo22/68Purple cloudsThis swirly, purple, square-shaped manicure was carved by Los Angeles manicurist Đaô Vo. Vo used blooming gel to create this gorgeous marble effect. Notice the tiny ripples of gold glitter, almost like bolts of lightning in clouds.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@adoreaxo23/68Psychedelic vibeColumbus-based nail artist Adorea Rhodes used a water-marbling technique to mix the vibrant colors in this manicure. These nails truly look like works of art with expertly swirled shades of yellow, pink, purple, mint, and orange.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@enchantedclaws24/68Pink revolutionWe love all the different ways you can mix and match nail designs, like this stunning pink manicure sculpted by Brooklyn-based nail artist Kyla. The thumb and index finger have a swirly pink and white marble design, while the middle finger is covered in tiny jewels. The ring finger has a pink base with loopy white lines and the pinky stands out with a pure white base and teeny pink eyes.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@artmuva25/68Moo-ve overAtlanta-based manicurist Eris Ice carved out these lengthy stilettos. She really demonstrated her talent here with the clean, sharp shape and chocolate-brown cow spots that decorate each nail.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailedbynashae26/68Royal fingersMississippi-based nail artist Axayla Nashae created this bejeweled acrylic set that looks like it's fit for royalty. She tells Allure she started off with a nude acrylic powder mixed with a shimmer powder for a subtle glittery effect. Then she added the multicolor gems, including the Gucci logo, drawing inspiration from images of Black women's nails from the '90s for the placement of each decoration.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@imoannails27/68Glittery clustersLondon-based nail artist Naysap put together this encapsulated freestyle set. Her client chose a few stickers and glitter acrylic and let the artist go to work. There's an interesting mix of decals, like the green four-leaf clovers, the Rick Sanchez sticker, and the tiny Hello Kitty. The random assortment works with the green, blue, and purple shades of glitter to tie this manicure together.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@downfortheclaws28/68Hand-painted randomnessBay Area-based nail artist Agatha Mae hand-painted each individual design (five in total) onto these almond-shaped nails. One nail has a black base with a slim, green alien drawn. On the next finger, is a cow print with a white base and black spots. There's another animal featured in this mani — a slithering snake drawn in black polish on a peach nail. There's also a bright yellow smiley face on a cobalt nail, and, for the last design, she used different colors on both nails: One finger has a red base with green, blue, and a darker red spread out on the nail; the other hand has yellow with green, red, and blue.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@pthenailtech_29/68Yellow sunshineHouston-based artist Paige Carthon expertly crafted this bright-yellow manicure. She mixed a few different nail designs here — a French, then a glitter marble, ombré, and 3D decals. And her shaping of this lengthy, square set is superb.More from AllureThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day Long14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery Finish38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicureEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, TooPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@fetishfornails30/68Peach cobblerJasmine truly has mastered adding that '90s-inspired curve as she did with this peachy set. (She even sells press-ons with the dramatic arch.) We love the slightly glittery finish on all the nails, plus the shimmery, bronze-pinky ones. The two brown-and-pink marble index fingers make great accent nails.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@zeynailz31/68Swirly designsLoopy lines in various shades will always look cute, like this lavender design. We like how Zey added a heart that reaches across the middle and ring fingers. The purple, pink, and white shades look gorgeous next to each other.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@artmuva32/68Hide your dalmatians!Ice painted this 101 Dalmatians-inspired set. We love the long stiletto shape and we have a good feeling that one of the most fashionable Disney villains would also approve. The addition of the red, heart-shaped gems and faint red line at the cuticle adds the perfect touch to this animal-print manicure.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@kreationsbykiki33/68Transparent glitterJelly nails grew in popularity in 2019 and for good reason: They're super cute and allow you to play around with different colors and styles. This set from Taylor is a clear one with a glitter twist. On one hand, she swirled purple glitter across the nails to create a loopy effect, then did something similar on the other hand, but with yellow shimmers instead.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@talontedgrip34/68Got my eye on youGawdess bodied this neon manicure with a different color on each finger. We love that she added tiny eye details on each nail in various colors and formations. The way she arranged the eyes into a heart shape on the index finger really takes the cake.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@badgal.nails35/68Back to the '80sThis set by Lewis has all the retro of the glorious '80s. We're loving the color palette she used here: The green, lavender, blue, and yellow shades complement each other well. And she expertly added the black and white lines and circles that really make this artwork so nostalgic.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@fetishfornails36/68Psychedelic leopard printWhere do you even begin with this colorful neon manicure? Jasmine calls this a ‘90s psychedelic set and we can totally see why. The explosion of shades works so well alongside the hints of leopard print. The pearls and teeny silver gems make stunning 3D accessories for this fire manicure.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@clawsbyzee37/68Flecks of glitterTulloch encapsulated a mix of opalescent glitters and sequins to form this stiletto manicure. It's completely see-through, so the flecks of blue, purple, and pink glitters are the stars of the show.More from AllureThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day Long14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery Finish38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicureEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, TooPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@pthenailtech_38/68Animal styleCarthon incorporated different animal prints into this long, freestyle manicure. The clear base makes the black designs almost look like stained glass on the transparent acrylic. We spot croc, zebra, and leopard prints here.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@adoreaxo39/68Pop artRhodes truly is an artist — just look at this bright yellow, hand-painted manicure she created. We can't decide which nail is the best because they all look so good. She added splatters of green, purple, and pink polish to the index finger. On the middle, are two cherries with green stems and bright red droplets. For the ring finger, swirls of the same green, red, and purple, and finally, for the pinky, she added three green eyes and three lashes with red droplets at the cuticle.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@zeynailz40/68Purple zigzagsThere are just so many ways to remix French manicures that it's impossible to include them all. Zey added squiggly lines in shades of purple, lavender, and white. The length and square shape are the perfect canvas for this French.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@syellenails41/68On Wednesdays, we wear pinkWe have a feeling Mean Girl Regina George would approve of these pretty pink, medium-length nails. Martin incorporated both a cow print and a C-curved French tip for this square-shaped set. We love the teeny-tiny gem decals as well.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@badgal.nails42/68Luxury experienceThis gray manicure is anything but dreary with its Dior stickers and swirly white lines. We love the way Lewis played with different finishes, so the middle finger is nice and shiny while the other nails have a matte texture.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailsbydaovo43/68Colorful orbsClear manicures are a perfect base for colorful designs and this orb manicure by Vo is evidence. They used an airbrushing technique to spread the orange, blue, yellow, purple, and pink hues in this set. To complete the manicure, they added a few colorful gems and 3D water droplets.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@adoreaxo44/68Fancy floralsRhodes started with a yellow base and added golden yellow glitter from the middle of the nails to the tips. Then she created a 3D, cream-colored flower on each nail with a yellow gem as the pistil.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@talontedgrip45/68Into the abstractWe love a pink manicure as much as everyone else, but sometimes you want to elevate the look a bit, as Gawdess did here. This ombré set transitions from a peachy pink to a vibrant shade on the tips. On top of seamlessly blended colors, she added a block of contrasting color, plus an angled white line to create some amazing abstract nail art.More from AllureEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, Too38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicureThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day Long14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery FinishPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@fetishfornails46/68Zebra-tipped hot pinkJasmine created this hot-pink jelly manicure that's giving all the Y2K feels. The sheer neon hue transitions into zebra-print tips that look phenomenal. We especially love the solid border between the sheer pink and animal print.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@badgal.nails47/68In full bloomAdd color to nude sets with cute florals, like those Lewis painted here. We love the palette of yellow, blue, pink, lavender, and seafoam. Teeny, gold 3D decals form the pistils smack dab in the center, bringing life to each bloom.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailsbydaovo48/68Slime seasonCloudy swirls of shamrock and slime greens run through these square nails with a white base. Vo expertly sculpted the nails into a long shape that really elevates the marbled neon green.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailedbynasha49/68Smiley-face FrenchThe French manicure has been remixed countless times and we love what Nashae did here. Rather than white tips, she added a C-curve tip in pink, purple, tangerine, blue, and green. On each colored tip, she added a simple white smiley face to complete this gorgeous manicure.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@badgal.nails50/68I'm a cowYour manicure doesn't have to have the same colors on both hands. Take this cow-print manicure, for example. We like how Lewis kept one in the traditional black and white, while the other hand features brown splotches instead. The coffin shape and medium length are perfect for the animal prints.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailedbynashae51/68Under the seaSpongeBob SquarePants fans will surely recognize these multicolor florals that make up the clouds in Bikini Bottom. Nashae certainly excelled at creating each flower in pretty hues. And we love that she designed them on top of a blue ombré base.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@shegotlamboed52/68Splat!Mississippi-based nail artist SheGotLamboed painted these beautiful splatters of neon and pastel hues. We love that she used two different designs on each hand and created a perfect milky base for those vibrant colors to lie on.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nailsbydaovo53/68Simple silhouettesThere are so many designs you can add to nude sets to spruce them up, like these square-shaped nails. Vo added the simple outlines of a curvy body on the middle and ring fingers. On one hand, they used black polish, on the other, they used white.More from Allure14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery FinishEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, TooThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day Long38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicurePinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@thetyratales54/68Multicolor printsThis printed French manicure has several beautiful hues. Atlanta-based nail artist Amy Nguyen chose a stunning palette for Seals's nails. The contrast between the splotches and the French manicure tips looks so good.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@nail_it_malli55/68Golden ticketA metallic manicure in one solid color is sure to turn heads. Jamaica-based nail artist Carrie Anna Malcolm used a gold chrome powder to create these lipstick nails. First, she painted on a black gel polish and topcoat, then added the metallic powder, sealing the whole look with the topcoat once again.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@__slaybyzay56/68Textured printsWe love the dramatic length of these textured, coffin-shaped nails from Bronx-based manicurist SlayByZay. She chose a stunning color palette with pink, green, and purple hues. The matte finish of textured croc scales on top of the shiny base gives this manicure exactly what it needs to truly stand out. Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@shegotlamboed57/68Welcome to the sweet lifeNails with large 3D decals have been having a moment on Instagram, and this pretty blue, extra-long manicure from SheGotLamboed is great nail inspiration. She created a baby-blue base and on two nails added a lollipop and a candy decal. The other nails have a few curved lines in navy, white, hot pink, blush, and slate blue.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@__slaybyzay58/68Rainbow swirlSlayByZay used a fabulous greige hue as the base here. On top of the neutral color, she added squiggly lines of color that look like swirly rainbows. She also expertly sculpted each lengthy, square-shaped nail.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@__slaybyzay59/68High-contrast pointsSlayByZay opted for black-and-white abstract art on extra-long, sharp stilettos, where some of the design almost looks like parts of leaves. Even though this manicure uses just two neutral colors, it's far from basic.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@agaloreco60/68Sea swirlsMarina swirled together a few different acrylic colors to create this manicure on a set of lengthy, square nails. The blues resemble the undulating waves of the sea, thanks to her marbling technique.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@designingwithsophia61/68Minimalist linesFor these pitch-black nails, Rice added silhouettes of nude bodies in vibrant lime, blue, and pink. Each body strikes a different pose, and the long, square shape adds an eye-catching element to this manicure.More from Allure38 Spring Nail Designs to Screenshot for Your Next ManicureEvery Allure Editor Has A Boar-Bristle Brush — Here's Why You Need One, Too14 Best False Lashes for a Fluttery FinishThe Best Makeup Primers for Flawless Foundation All Day LongPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@downfortheclaws62/68Pretty pastelsThese medium-length, cow-print nails are super cute. Mae shaped this coffin manicure beautifully with perfect spots. Although we love them all, our favorite color combo may just be the baby blue and pink.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@artmuva63/68Koi pondIce's client wanted an aquarium-inspired set with jelly, koi fish, a sculpted leaf, and encapsulated lily pads. And, wow, did she deliver! Everything the client wanted is present in this aquatic manicure. The stiletto shape is perfect for this set, and we love the translucent teal and flecks of glitter. We're not sure what's more impressive, the hand-painted koi fish or the 3D-sculpted emerald-green leaf.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@designingwithsophia64/68Encapsulated flowersHouston and Chicago-based nail artist Sophia sculpted these nails with milky white acrylic to create the base. Then she carefully added each bloom to the nails to begin the encapsulation. After letting it dry for a few seconds, she tells Allure, she added more white acrylic and then a coat of clear acrylic to seal the nails.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@agaloreco65/68Unicorn swirlThis marbled manicure has gorgeous pastel swirls of greens, purples, pinks, and blues. The mix of colors reminds us of a unicorn and the gold accents on each nail add a beautiful finishing touch to this fantastical set.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@adoreaxo66/68For the love of floralsThese slightly cloudy nails have the cutest 3D flowers. Rhodes created each flower by carefully placing colorful jewels, gems, and other adornments. The golden metallic flowers look lovely next to the vibrant blue, pink, and orange blooms.Most PopularMakeup16 Expert-Approved Foundations for Mature SkinBy Sarah HanMakeup46 On-Trend Gifts for Teenage GirlsBy Shanna ShipinSkin15 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums for Your Dewiest Complexion EverBy Lauren RearickPinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@_nailsbyelisha67/68Let it rainEmilius added texture to this clear manicure for a "wet" effect. She created a clear ombré so the nail fades from light pink to completely transparent. Plus, iridescent droplets twinkle starting about halfway down the nails to the tips.PinterestCourtesy of Instagram/@bejazzeled.nails68/68I'm Blue (Da Ba Dee)Jones painted these gorgeous cobalt-blue nails with squiggly lines in white, slime green, and orange. She's a whiz at shaping, which is clear with these perfect square nails. The shape and length make a great canvas for intricate art like these swirls.Gabi Thorne is the associate news editor at Allure. Since graduating from Harvard University, where she received a student writing fellowship from The Nation to research political news and social media as they pertain to students and communities of color, Gabi has covered beauty, pop culture, news, and more... Read moreAssociate News EditorAnnie Blay is the associate beauty editor at Allure. She previously served as the associate beauty news editor at The Zoe Report and her work has been featured on Elle.com, Popsugar, Coveteur, Moda Operandi, Ebony, and Bustle. She graduated from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University... Read moreAssociate Beauty EditorInstagramKeywordsacrylic nailsnail artnail artistnail designnailsrainbow nailsserviceRead MoreCelebritySaweetie Knows That Trend Is Right…or WRONG!Frosty eyelids? Mullets on men? Stiletto toenails?! Allure's March cover star, Saweetie, is here to set the record straight on whether these trends are RIGHT or WRONG! Would Icy Girl ever try red light therapy? Take a look!
Director: Noël Jean
Director of Photography: Grant Bell
Editor: Christopher Jones
Talent: Saweetie
Producer: Sydney Malone
Production Manager: Andressa Pelachi, Kevin Balash
Talent Booker: Eugene Shevertalov
Camera Operator: Osiris Nascimento
Sound Mixer: Kara Johnson
Production Assistant: Fernando Barajas, Lauren Boucher
Post Production Supervisor: Christian Olguin
Post Production Coordinator: Scout Alter
Supervising Editor: Erica DeLeo
Additional Editor: JC Scruggs
Assistant Editor: Billy WardBeauty Product ReviewsThe Ultimate K-Beauty Box Is a Multistep Skin-Care Routine Made Simple10 K-beauty skin-care faves packaged in one awesome box: A $225 value for as little as $79 for Allure Beauty Box members.By Sarah HanBeauty Product ReviewsThe March Allure Beauty Box is a Springtime Beauty Refresh — a $212 Value for $25!A beloved Sulwhasoo serum, a Best of Beauty-winning cleanser, and a floral YSL perfume have fresh springtime vibes, and make Allure’s March Beauty Box extra special. Subscriptions are up to $25 off with code WELCOME.By Allure EditorsHair10 Best Heat-Protectant Sprays That'll Tone Down DamageLackluster har? The culprit could be your heated tools — these picks are here to fix that.By Jennifer HusseinInstagramXFacebookPinterestTiktokMore from Allure The BEAUTY EXPERTAbout AllureNewsletter Sign UpBEST OF BEAUTY AWARDSGift GuidesContactContact usCareersUser AgreementPrivacy Policy & Cookie StatementYour California Privacy RightsRSS FeedsAccessibility HelpCondé Nast StoreDo Not Sell My Personal Info© 2024 Condé Nast. All rights reserved. Allure may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. Ad Choi