Most people don’t know the meaning of the half moon at the base of the nails

The Nail Matrix: Where Growth Begins

To understand the lunula, you must understand the nail matrix.

The nail matrix:

• Produces keratin cells
• Determines nail thickness and shape
• Controls nail growth speed

The lunula is simply the visible edge of this matrix.

When the matrix is healthy, nails grow:

• Smooth
• Strong
• Evenly

When the matrix is stressed, nail changes may appear over time.

Why the Lunula Is Most Visible on the Thumb

The thumb often has the most prominent lunula because:

• It has the largest nail matrix
• Nails grow slightly faster
• The tissue is thicker

This is why doctors often look at thumbnails first when assessing nail growth patterns.