Nail Technician key terms

Using an EPA-registered hospital-grade product on pre-cleaned hard, nonporous items to destroy most bacteria, fungi, and viruses, though not necessarily bacterial spores.

A process that destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, usually with an autoclave using steam under pressure; required for reusable items that contact blood or are porous.

A lower-level cleaning step that scrubs away visible debris and reduces the number of germs on surfaces, tools, and hands, but does not kill all pathogens.

The transfer of bacteria, fungi, or viruses from one person or object to another through dirty hands, tools, or work surfaces.

A tool with a smooth, sealed surface, such as stainless steel, glass, or hard plastic, that cannot absorb liquids and therefore can be cleaned and disinfected.

An item designed to be used on one client only and then discarded, such as a disposable file, buffer, or wooden stick.

Treating all blood, body fluids, and moist skin as potentially infectious, and using gloves and other barriers with every client.

Thickened, hardened layers of skin that form from repeated friction or pressure, most commonly on the soles, heels, and sides of the feet.

Warm melted wax applied to hands or feet to soften and hydrate skin; the technician must check the temperature and avoid use on clients with diabetes, neuropathy, or open skin.

The liquid component of an acrylic system, usually ethyl methacrylate, that softens and bonds with polymer powder to form a hard nail coating.

The powder component of an acrylic system, made of ground acrylic particles, pigments, and an initiator such as benzoyl peroxide.

A pre-shaped plastic extension glued to the free edge of a natural nail to add length before it is shaped and blended.

A thin fabric such as silk, linen, or fiberglass applied with resin or glue over the nail plate to repair or strengthen it.

A product such as acrylic, gel, or wrap applied over the natural nail plate for strength or shape without adding a tip.

The tacky, uncured film left on the surface of a gel coating after curing, which is wiped away with cleanser before finishing.

A liquid applied to the natural nail before acrylic to improve adhesion and reduce lifting; some types contain methacrylic acid and must be used sparingly.

The living area at the base of the nail where new cells form; damage here can cause permanent ridges, thinning, or nail loss.

The visible hard part of the nail, made of compacted keratin cells, which protects the sensitive nail bed beneath it.

The skin under the free edge of the nail that seals the nail bed and helps keep debris and microbes out.

The living skin fold at the base of the nail plate; it should never be cut, though the thin dead cuticle on top may be gently pushed back.

The whitish, half-moon shape at the base of the nail plate, formed by the front edge of the matrix showing through.

A fungal infection of the nail plate and bed that causes thickening, discoloration, and crumbling; it is contagious and must be referred to a physician.

An infection or inflammation of the skin around the nail, often caused by torn cuticles, producing redness, swelling, and sometimes pus.

Separation of the nail plate from the nail bed that leaves a white gap; causes include trauma, aggressive filing, and fungal infection.

A condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and possible infection; technicians should not attempt to cut it out.

A condition that makes a service unsafe or inadvisable, such as an infection, open wound, or severe skin disorder, so the service must be refused or referred.

Explaining a service's steps, products, risks, and alternatives so the client can decide freely whether to proceed.

A form that captures a client's contact details, health history, medications, allergies, and past reactions; it supports safe service choices and must be kept confidential.

A 16-section document supplied by a product manufacturer that lists hazards, safe handling, first aid, and spill steps for a chemical, and must be kept on file.

A liquid monomer once used in nail acrylics that is banned or restricted in many states because it can cause severe allergic reactions and nail damage.

Hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a common gel ingredient that can trigger allergic skin reactions; sensitized clients may need HEMA-free products.

The movement of fresh air through a salon to remove chemical vapors and dust; local exhaust at the work table is the most effective control.

A rotary attachment for the electric file; its material, shape, and grit determine how quickly and safely it removes product.

A nail art technique in which polish is pressed from an engraved plate onto a rubber stamper and then rolled onto the nail.

The services and acts a licensed nail technician may legally perform as defined by state law; working outside it can bring fines and license loss.

A business arrangement in which a licensed technician pays a salon a weekly or monthly fee to work there while keeping their own client income.