What is the term for the tissue that overlaps the lunula at the base of the nail?

The term for the tissue that overlaps the lunula at the base of the nail is known as the eponychium. This layer of skin serves as a barrier to protect the area between the skin and the nail, helping to prevent pathogens from entering. The eponychium is often mistakenly referred to as the cuticle, which specifically refers to the dead skin at the nail's base that is pushed back during manicure processes.

Understanding the eponychium is important for nail care professionals, as proper maintenance and knowledge of this tissue can help avoid infections and promote healthy nail growth. It delineates the boundary where the skin meets the nail, and recognizing this area is vital when performing nail enhancements or maintaining natural nails.

The other terms provided relate to different parts of the nail anatomy: the hyponychium is the tissue under the tip of the nail, the matrix is the tissue beneath the base of the nail where growth occurs, and the nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate. Each of these structures has specific functions, but none of them refer to the tissue that specifically overlaps the lunula.