What is the visible portion of a nail made of?

The visible portion of a nail, known as the nail plate, is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, which is also found in hair and skin. It is a hard, protective structure that covers the tips of fingers and toes. The nail plate is produced by cells in the nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle, and it grows outward as new cells are formed. The nail itself is translucent, allowing the underlying nail bed's color to show through.