Artificial Nail Enhancements and Application Techniques
Domain 5 tests product chemistry plus technique: proper prep, mix ratio, curing, and safe removal determine whether an enhancement lasts and whether it damages the plate.
Core rules
- Acrylic: liquid monomer plus polymer powder. EMA (ethyl methacrylate) is the standard; MMA (methyl methacrylate) is banned or restricted in many states because of severe reactions and nail damage.
- Correct bead ratio: workable bead, not runny or crumbly. Too wet causes shrinkage, lifting, and bubbles; too dry causes brittleness and poor adhesion.
- Prep: clean, dehydrate, gently remove shine, use primer only as directed. Do not over-file the natural plate.
- Gel: cure in the correct lamp wavelength and intensity; thin layers; cap free edges. Wraps and tips need proper sizing and adhesion.
- Removal: soak or use proper solvent; never force or pry. Fill lifted product only after correcting the cause.
Worked example
An acrylic bead runs down the brush and pools at the cuticle. That is too wet. The monomer-rich mix shrinks as it sets, creating a lip that lifts. The technician should wipe the brush, pick up a balanced bead, press and pat without touching the skin, and let it harden correctly. The reasoning is that excess monomer weakens the polymer network and leaves a ledge for moisture.
Traps
Using MMA; mixing brands; applying primer to skin; filling over lift; and using a drill to remove product aggressively.