What is the whitish, half-moon shape at the base of the nail?

The whitish, half-moon shape at the base of the nail is called the lunula. This structure is part of the nail matrix, where new nail cells are produced. The lunula appears white due to the thickness of the underlying matrix and the presence of keratin that has not yet been fully developed or hardened as it grows outward.

The lunula is an important indicator of health, as its visibility and size can vary based on individual factors and overall health. When examining the health of nails, practitioners often look at the lunula, as abnormalities in its appearance can reflect various health conditions. Understanding the lunula is crucial for professional nail care and identifying possible issues with the nails or underlying skin health.