What is the hyponychium?

The hyponychium refers to the skin located underneath the free edge of the nail. This area serves as a protective barrier that safeguards the nail bed from potential infections and trauma. The hyponychium is crucial in keeping moisture from getting trapped underneath the nail and acts as a seal against environmental contaminants that may enter through the gap between the nail and the skin. Understanding its function is important in nail care and health, particularly in preventing issues such as hangnails or nail infections. The other options, while related to nail anatomy, do not accurately define the hyponychium, which specifically pertains to the skin beneath the free edge.