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What Is the Half Moon on Your Nails?
The half moon at the base of the nail is medically known as the lunula, which comes from the Latin word luna, meaning moon.
What the Lunula Actually Is
The lunula is:
- The visible portion of the nail matrix
- The area where new nail cells are produced
- A region of active nail growth
Because this area is thicker and contains developing cells, it appears lighter than the rest of the nail.
In simple terms:
👉 The lunula is the factory where your nail is made.
Why Is the Lunula White or Pale?
The lunula appears white or pale because:
- The nail matrix underneath is thicker
- Blood vessels are less visible
- Light reflects differently through the tissue
It’s not paint. It’s not calcium buildup. It’s simply how the tissue interacts with light.
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