An uneven nail free edge is a common frustration. You look down at your hands, and it’s there – a jagged line, a slightly longer side, a nail that just doesn’t match the others. It might seem like a purely aesthetic issue, but an uneven free edge of nail can actually point to underlying problems that affect the health of your nails.
So, what exactly is the free edge of the nail? It’s simply the part of your nail plate that extends past your nail bed, the skin underneath your nail. This part of the nail isn’t attached to the skin, making it vulnerable to snags, breaks, and uneven growth. Just beneath the free edge is the hyponychium, the skin between your nail bed and your fingertip. This area protects the nail bed from bacteria and infection.
This article will explore the common causes of an uneven free edge of nail, how to identify the underlying issues, and, most importantly, how to manage and correct the problem. We’ll also discuss when it’s time to seek help from a professional to ensure your nails stay healthy and beautiful.