From which part of the nail does nail growth occur?

Nail growth occurs from the nail matrix, which is located under the base of the nail where the nail meets the skin of the finger or toe. The nail matrix is composed of rapidly dividing cells that push older cells forward, leading to the formation of the hard nail plate that we see. As new cells are produced, they harden and form the visible part of the nail, allowing for continuous growth.

For context, while the nail bed supports the nail plate, it is not responsible for growth. The nail plate is the hard part of the nail itself, and the cuticle serves as a protective barrier at the base of the nail and does not play a role in growth. Thus, the nail matrix is specifically recognized as the actual site of nail production and growth.