Nail Bed

• Your nail bed is the layer of skin beneath your nail plate -- your actual nail. It is composed of two layers of tissue. The deeper dermis is the living tissue that attaches to the bones of your fingers and contains glands and capillaries. The superficial epidermis is the layer of skin immediately underneath your nail that allows the nail to move forward as it grows.
  
  

Nail Bed Injuries

• Your nail beds are susceptible to injuries. A cut or crush injury to your fingertip can damage your nail bed. Signs of a nail bed injury include a hematoma under the nail -- a pool of blood -- as well as cracking of the nail plate. Nail bed injuries are diagnosed with an X-ray in order to rule out bone damage and a physical examination. Nail bed injuries are treated by draining any hematomas that are present. This can often relieve pain. For severe nail bed injuries, splinting or a skin graft may be required.
  
  

Nail Bed Infections

• Your nail beds are also susceptible to infections. One type of infection is known as paronychia. This type of infection develops next to the nail and appears as a small abscess or a collection of pus underneath your skin or nail. A nail bed infection can be the result of bacteria or fungus. Bacterial nail bed infections often clear up on their own by keeping the nail plate and bed clean. Fungal infections can go on for months. In this case, your doctor may drain the abscess. With continued pain and infection, your nail plate may be removed and a new nail will grow from your nail bed.
  
  

Nail Bed Care

• In order to keep your nails and nail beds healthy, you need to practice proper nail care. Always keep your fingers dry and clean. You should avoid abusing your nails with manicure tools, but remember to keep your nails properly trimmed and file them regularly in order to avoid infections. Avoid biting your nails. Nail biting can lead to bacterial or fungal nail bed infections. You should also avoid ripping hangnails off. This is likely to damage your nail bed tissue.