Nail Care and Disorders
Nail Care and Disorders
This domain tests manicuring, pedicuring, nail structure, and the line between a cosmetic condition and a disease. You must recognize when to refuse service and refer.
Structure
The nail plate is dead keratin produced by the matrix. The nail bed lies beneath it; the cuticle seals the base; the lunula is the visible part of the matrix. The free edge extends beyond the fingertip. Nail growth is affected by age, health, and trauma.
Manicure and pedicure
Sanitize hands, use a clean towel, and disinfect implements. Shape with a file in one direction to avoid splitting. Push back cuticle gently; do not cut live tissue. Pedicure basins must be cleaned and disinfected between clients, and whirlpool screens cleaned. Massage is done with lotion; avoid service on broken skin.
Disorders and contraindications
Cosmetic disorders include onychorrhexis (ridging), leukonychia (white spots), and brittle nails. Signs of disease include onychomycosis (thickened, discolored, crumbly nail), paronychia (red, swollen nail fold), and green-black discoloration from Pseudomonas. Do not treat these; refer. A licensed nail technician may not diagnose.
Worked example
A client has a greenish-black area under one nail and mild swelling. Reasoning: possible bacterial or fungal infection. Do not soak, file, or apply product; refer to a physician, then disinfect all implements.
Traps
Cutting cuticles; using the same file on multiple clients; ignoring a contraindication; calling a disease a stain. Do not use UV or shared tools without disinfection.