Nails

body science · protection · keratin

Built from keratin. Nails are made of a tough protein called alpha-keratin, the exact same material found in animal claws, hooves, and horns. This protein stacks together like tiny building blocks to create something hard and protective.

Primates have them. Almost all primates, including humans, have flat protective plates at the tips of our fingers and toes. This is one thing that makes primates special compared to other animals.

Related to claws. Your nails are actually the primate version of claws found in other animals like lions, bears, and birds. They all serve the same job: protecting the sensitive tips of fingers and toes.

Same as hooves and horns. The keratin in your nails is identical to the keratin in cow hooves and sheep horns. It's one of nature's favorite building materials for protective coverings.

Protective armor. Nails shield the tender skin underneath your fingers and toes from bumps, scrapes, and damage. They also help you grip things and pick up small objects.