AR Nail Technician study plan

Distinguish cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting, and state which one applies to porous vs. non-porous implements

List the EPA-registered disinfectant label requirements and demonstrate the correct mixing, contact time, and disposal steps

Identify the chain of infection and name at least two break points that apply to a nail station

Demonstrate handwashing and proper glove use, including when to change gloves between clients

Recognize client contraindications and nail/skin conditions that require referral rather than service

Explain standard precautions, bloodborne pathogen exposure procedure, and the documentation steps after a cut or spill

Compare hospital-grade disinfectant requirements for tools, bowls, and footbaths, including weekly and monthly cleaning routines

Label the bones of the hand, wrist, and forearm and locate the major muscles and nerves of the hand and arm

Describe nail plate structure, growth direction, and the matrix, bed, and cuticle relationships

Identify risk factors and warning signs of skin and nail infections, including fungal and bacterial presentations

Sequence a complete basic manicure from setup through cleanup and perform it within standard timing

Select and use implements, files, buffers, and nippers correctly, including grit and file-direction principles

Shape nails in square, squoval, oval, and almond forms and explain when each shape suits the hand

Apply cuticle care, massage movements, and polish application without flooding the cuticle

Explain nail diseases and disorders of the nail unit and state which require referral

Set up and maintain a footbath using approved disinfection and cleaning procedures between clients

Sequence a complete pedicure including soak, exfoliation, callus care, nail shaping, massage, and polish

Identify foot and lower-leg conditions such as ingrown nails, thick nails, and diabetic contraindications, and state the correct response

Compare pedicure tool and product selection for safety, including nipper and file use on thick nails

Explain massage contraindications and appropriate pressure and direction for foot and lower-leg massage

Compare tip sizes, shapes, and adhesives and demonstrate correct tip sizing, blending, and sidewall fit

Apply a fabric wrap and a fiberglass or silk wrap with correct resin control and no lifting at the free edge

Explain removal procedures for tips and wraps that protect the natural nail plate

Identify causes of lifting, cracking, and green discoloration on enhancements and state prevention steps

Demonstrate proper shaping and finishing of finished extensions, including stress area placement

Explain monomer and polymer chemistry, product ratio, and the effects of wet, dry, and correct consistency

Demonstrate bead placement, patting, and stress-area building on a sculpted form

Sculpt a nail extension on a form with proper apex, sidewall, and free-edge thickness

Perform a fill with correct preparation, product blending, and cuticle safety

Troubleshoot common acrylic problems including yellowing, lifting, and heat spike, and state the correction for each

Explain gel chemistry, curing requirements, and lamp maintenance, including why under-curing causes service breakdown

Apply a gel polish manicure and a light-cured enhancement with correct thin-layer application and no product on the skin

Complete a safe gel removal that avoids over-filing and damage to the natural nail plate

Demonstrate at least two nail art techniques such as hand-painted detail, stamping, or foil application, plus a French and gradient finish

Summarize nail art safety and product compatibility rules for polish over enhancements

Summarize state licensing, sanitation, and scope-of-practice rules and identify where to verify current requirements

Explain professional ethics, client confidentiality, informed consent, and appropriate referral language

Review business basics including pricing, record keeping, and client intake documentation

Rehearse full-length timed practice sets across all domains and review every missed item to its source concept

Build a personal error log of recurring weak spots and a plan to close each one