ND Nail Technician study materials
ND Nail Technician study resources

ND Nail Technician flashcards

ND Nail Technician · Build recall with a focused review session.

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Disinfection
A process that uses chemicals to kill most pathogenic microorganisms on nonporous surfaces, but does not destroy bacterial spores.
Sterilization
The complete destruction of all microbial life, including bacterial spores, using methods such as autoclaving or chemical sterilants.
Hospital-grade disinfectant
An EPA-registered disinfectant labeled as effective against tuberculosis, hepatitis B, and HIV, required for implements that may contact blood.
Single-use items
Porous or disposable tools such as files, buffers, and wooden sticks that must be discarded after one client and cannot be disinfected.
Nail matrix
The area at the base of the nail where new cells are produced; it determines the shape and growth of the nail plate.
Nail bed
The skin beneath the nail plate that contains blood vessels and nerves, giving the nail its pink appearance.
Eponychium
The living skin at the base of the nail plate, commonly called the cuticle; it should never be cut, only pushed back gently.
Hyponychium
The seal under the free edge of the nail that protects the nail bed from infection; avoid excessive filing under the free edge.
Nail growth rate
Fingernails grow about 3.5 mm per month; toenails grow about 1.5 mm per month; complete replacement takes 4-6 months for fingernails.
Manicure procedure order
Consultation, hand washing, shaping, cuticle care, cleaning under free edge, massage, base coat, polish, top coat.
Pedicure tub disinfection
After each client, clean and disinfect the whirlpool tub, including jets, with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant following label instructions.
Nail tip sizing
Choose a tip that fits the natural nail sidewalls without pressure; tips are numbered, with smaller numbers for larger nails.
Nail wrap
A fabric (silk, linen, fiberglass) applied with resin or glue over the natural nail or tip to add strength or repair a break.
Acrylic mix ratio
The correct ratio of liquid monomer to powder polymer creates a smooth bead; too wet causes lifting, too dry causes brittleness.
Monomer
The liquid component of acrylic systems, typically ethyl methacrylate, which reacts with powder polymer to form a hard nail enhancement.
Polymer
The powder component of acrylic systems, typically polyethyl methacrylate, which when mixed with monomer forms the acrylic nail.
Primer
A methacrylic acid product applied to the natural nail to improve adhesion of acrylic; use sparingly and avoid skin contact.
Gel curing
Gel nails require curing under a UV or LED lamp; each thin layer must be cured for the manufacturer's specified time to ensure proper polymerization.
UV/LED lamp wavelength
UV lamps emit around 340-380 nm; LED lamps emit around 365-405 nm; use the lamp type specified for the gel product.
Gel polish removal
File the top coat, soak in acetone or gel remover, then gently push off the softened gel; never force or scrape.
Base coat
A clear polish applied before color to prevent staining, improve adhesion, and create a smooth surface for polish.
Top coat
A clear polish applied over color to seal the polish, add shine, and protect the design; cap the free edge to extend wear.
French manicure
A style with a white tip and pink or nude base, creating a natural look; the smile line is shaped with guide stickers or freehand.
Client consultation
A pre-service discussion to assess client needs, health history, lifestyle, and expectations, and to document allergies and contraindications.
Informed consent
The process of explaining a procedure, its risks, and alternatives, and obtaining the client's agreement before performing the service.
Scope of practice
The legally defined procedures a licensed nail technician may perform, excluding medical diagnosis or treatment.
North Dakota Board of Cosmetology
The state agency that regulates licensing, sanitation, and practice standards for cosmetologists, nail technicians, estheticians, and salons.
License renewal
Nail technician licenses in North Dakota must be renewed periodically, with continuing education requirements set by the Board.
Paronychia
A bacterial infection of the skin around the nail, characterized by redness, swelling, and pus; requires medical referral and no service.
Onychomycosis
A fungal infection of the nail plate, causing thickening, discoloration, and crumbling; contraindicates nail services and requires medical treatment.
Effleurage
A light, gliding massage stroke used in manicures and pedicures to improve circulation and relax muscles; avoid over inflamed areas.
Stress area
The area where the free edge meets the nail plate on an enhancement; it requires proper product build-up to prevent cracking.