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Nails: more than just skin extensions

The horn-like envelopes covering the tips of our fingers and toes are called nails. They are highly specialised epidermal appendages. Finger- and toenails are made out of a tough fibrous protein, the alphakeratine. The nail consists of the nail plate, the nail matrix and the nail bed below it, and the grooves surrounding it.1

Apart from the aesthetical aspect, a healthy fingernail has the function of protecting the fingertip and the surrounding skin from injuries and preventing the skin at the end of fingers and toes from rolling backwards over the distal phalanx. The nail helps to improve sensitivity and the grip of the fingers and also enables the precise manipulation of small objects through counter-pressure exerted on the pulp of the distal digits (e.g. pulling out a splinter in one’s finger), as well as certain cutting or scraping actions.1,3

The market for nail products is big and constantly growing. Specialised analysts predict that by the end of 2019, it will have a value of nine billion USD. The Americas, especially the US and Brazil are the main players, but are closely followed by Asia and Europe.2 

Over 90% of young girls, from ages as young as 9 to 17 years old, use some kind of nail product. Thus, these are becoming the most popular cosmetic product among teenage girls. This trend proves that apart from the above mentioned functions, today the nail has become a fashionable, stylish accessory.2 

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Upcoming Events

in-cosmetics Global

Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
16th – 18th April 2024

NYSCC Suppliers' Day 2024

Javits Center, New York
1st - 2nd May 2024

9th Anti-Ageing Skin Care Conference

Royal College of Physicians, London
25th - 26th June 2024

in-cosmetics Korea 2024

Hall C, Coex, Seoul, South Korea
24th - 26th July 2024

in-cosmetics Latin America 2024

São Paulo, Brazil
25th - 26th September 2024

IFSCC 2024

Recanto das Cataratas Thermas Resort, Iguazu Falls, Brazil
14th - 17th October 2024

Access the latest issue of Personal Care Magazine on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Personal Care Magazine app from your device's App store

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