What tissue lies beneath the free edge of the nail?

The tissue that lies beneath the free edge of the nail is the hyponychium. This structure acts as a protective barrier, preventing pathogens and debris from infiltrating the area beneath the nail. It is located at the distal end of the nail plate, where it meets the skin, helping to secure the nail and maintain its integrity.

The hyponychium is made up of highly keratinized skin, which contributes to its durability and protective function. Its position is critical in nail health, as it helps to protect the nail bed, which is the part of the finger or toe that the nail rests on but is not visible. The other options, while related to the structure of the nail, refer to different areas that do not directly lie beneath the free edge. For instance, the eponychium is the cuticle that overlaps the base of the nail, while the nail bed and matrix refer to areas of the nail that are also vital but are positioned differently in relation to the free edge.