A fingernail protector having a finger support flange; a semicircular lower shell, co-extensive with the flange; an upper semicircular cover resting upon the shell, the shell and cover defining a cylinder for encasing the distal finger joint; an exterior hinge connecting the shell and cover which permits convenient access to the fingernail; and a finger support strap having a plurality of flexible hooks on one side and a plurality of flexible loops on the other side.