What does the half moon at the base of the nails mean?

We may notice it out of the corner of our eye, without paying any attention. However, the little white crescent form at the base of the nail, known as the lunula, is becoming increasingly intriguing. Is it a discreet reflection of our inner state? Above all, should we be concerned when it disappears or changes appearance? The solution can be summarized in a single word: subtlety.

The lunula is the silent witness to nail growth.

The lunula’s origins are not particularly mysterious. It is merely the visible section of the nail matrix from which the nail grows. It has a white tint. It is caused by a structure that lacks visible blood vessels, in contrast to the pinker rest of the nail bed.

In some persons, it is clearly marked, particularly around the thumbs. In others, it appears virtually absent—a feature that, in most circumstances, is not unusual. It even fades with age or in youngsters, which does not necessarily indicate a health condition. In actuality, the appearance of the lunula varies according on the individual, skin tone, genetics, and, in some cases, ambient light.

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