What are the folds of normal skin that surround the natural nail plate called?

The folds of normal skin that surround the natural nail plate are known as nail folds. These structures play an important role in the integrity of the nail unit by forming a barrier that helps protect the nail matrix and the surrounding tissues from infection and injury.

Nail folds are composed of skin tissue and are located on the sides (lateral folds) and the top (proximal fold, also referred to as the cuticle) of the nail plate. They can also assist in guiding the growth of the nail plate as it develops from the nail matrix. Understanding the anatomy and function of the nail folds is essential for nail technicians, as it helps them perform safe and effective services that do not damage the surrounding skin.

The other terms may refer to different structures or conditions. For instance, cuticles specifically refer to the dead tissue at the base of the nail, while plicatured nails and specialized ligaments relate to other aspects of nail anatomy that are not directly about the folds of skin surrounding the nail plate.