tructure of the nail Nails A nail is a scale like modification of the epidermis that corresponds to the hoof or claw of other animals. Each nail has a free edge, a body (visible attached portion), and a root (embedded in the skin). The borders of the nail are overlapped by skin folds, called nail folds. Nails, like hairs, are mostly non-living material. Nails are transparent and nearly colourless, but they look pink because of the rich blood supply in the underlying dermis. Nails grow from the ends of the fingers and toes and serve as a form of protection. They also help when picking up small objects.