What is the part of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip or toe called?

The free edge of the nail plate is the part that extends beyond the fingertip or toe. It is the visible portion of the nail that you can see and is commonly trimmed during manicures and pedicures. This part of the nail is composed of keratin and serves to protect the sensitive tissues underneath, while also contributing to the overall aesthetic appearance of the hands and feet.

In contrast, the nail fold refers to the skin overlapping the nail on both sides, which serves as a protective barrier, while the nail tip usually describes products designed to enhance or extend the nail, and nail margin is not a commonly used term in nail anatomy. Understanding the function and anatomy of the free edge is important for nail care and maintenance.