What is the term for the living skin at the base of the natural nail plate that covers the matrix area?

The living skin at the base of the natural nail plate that covers the matrix area is known as the cuticle. The cuticle acts as a barrier that protects the nail matrix, which is the area responsible for producing new nail cells. Proper care of the cuticle is crucial for maintaining nail health and preventing infections.

In the context of the other terms, the nail folds refer to the skin surrounding the nail that helps support the nail structure, but they do not specifically cover the matrix area. A hangnail is a small piece of torn skin next to the nail, which is unrelated to the protective role of the cuticle. Paronychia is an infection of the tissue around the nail, which also does not define the skin covering the matrix area. Understanding the function of the cuticle is essential for proper nail care and cosmetology practices.