Product Chemistry, Tools, and Equipment
Domain 8 connects chemistry to tool selection: pH, monomers, polymers, solvents, and abrasives explain why products behave as they do.
Core rules
- pH measures acidity/alkalinity. Nail products and skin cleansers near skin pH are gentler; strong acids or alkalis can damage skin and plate.
- Monomers are small molecules that link into polymers; initiators start curing. In acrylic, the powder contains initiator; in gel, photoinitiators respond to UV/LED light.
- Solvents dissolve product; use them with ventilation and away from flames. Store in closed, labeled containers.
- Abrasives are graded by grit: lower number is coarser. Use coarse grits only for product reduction, finer for natural nail finishing.
- Electric files need correct bit, speed, and handpiece; keep the bit moving to avoid heat and grooves.
Worked example
A gel service stays tacky after curing. Check the lamp: wavelength and intensity must match the gel's photoinitiator, and the bulb may be old. Also check layer thickness and whether the client's hand was positioned correctly. The reasoning is that curing is a chemical reaction requiring sufficient light energy; a thicker application can outpace the lamp.
Traps
Using a lamp that does not match the product; mixing monomer brands; storing liquids in unlabeled bottles; using a coarse bit on the natural plate; and ignoring SDS ventilation instructions.