Here's a breakdown of the nail structure:
* Free edge: This is the visible portion of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip. It's the part you clip.
* Nail plate: This is the hard, translucent structure that makes up the majority of the nail.
* Nail bed: This is the skin beneath the nail plate.
* Nail matrix: This is the living tissue at the base of the nail that produces new nail cells.
* Cuticle: This is the thin layer of skin at the base of the nail.
So, when you clip your nails, you're only removing the part that has already been produced by the nail matrix. You're not touching any living tissue.