Onycholysis is defined as lifting of the nail plate from the nail bed without shedding, typically starting at which area?

Onycholysis is a condition characterized by the separation or lifting of the nail plate from the nail bed while it remains attached at the base. This condition typically begins at the free edge of the nail, which is the part of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip and is subject to the most exposure to trauma, pressure, and other factors that can lead to stress on the nail.

When the nail plate lifts from the nail bed, it can expose the underlying area to potential infections, and this usually starts distally, at the free edge, rather than at the cuticle, lunula, or matrix areas. The free edge is more prone to injuries and environmental influences, which can trigger this lifting process before it potentially spreads toward the base of the nail. Understanding the nature of onycholysis and its common starting point is crucial for nail health assessment and treatment in the field of cosmetology.