Yes, nails are made up of dead cells. They are composed of a protein called keratin, which is produced in the nail bed. As new cells grow, they push old ones through the skin, and the part you can see consists of dead cells. This is why you don't feel pain when you cut your nails.
While the visible part of the nail is made up of dead cells, the nail matrix, which is located at the base of the nail, contains living cells that produce the keratin that forms the nail plate.
Here's a breakdown of why nails are considered dead cells:
- Lack of blood supply: Nails don't have a blood supply like other parts of your body, so they don't receive nutrients or oxygen directly.
- No nerve endings: This is why you don't feel pain when you cut your nails.
- Made of keratin: The primary component of nails is keratin, a strong protein that forms a hard, protective layer.
While the visible portion of the nail is dead, it's important to remember that the nail matrix contains living cells that are responsible for its growth and development.
