Nail Technology: Practice and Services
Scope of nail technology
The Nail Technology domain tests your ability to perform manicures, pedicures, artificial nail services, and nail art safely, and to recognize when a client must be referred. You must know nail anatomy, growth, product chemistry, massage movements, and common nail disorders.
Anatomy and growth
The nail plate is the visible hard keratin; it sits on the nail bed. The matrix produces the plate and is protected by the proximal nail fold. The eponychium is the living skin fold at the base; the cuticle is the dead tissue on the plate. The lunula is the visible portion of the matrix. The hyponychium seals the free edge, and sidewalls frame the nail. Fingernails grow about 0.1 mm per day (roughly 1/8 inch per month); toenails grow more slowly. Growth is faster in summer and in younger clients.
Services and chemistry
Acrylics use liquid monomer and powder polymer; EMA is the standard monomer, and MMA is prohibited. Gel enhancements cure under UV/LED light. Wraps use fabric and resin. Massage movements include effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, and friction. File natural nails with a fine grit (180 or higher) and file in one direction to reduce splitting.
Worked example
A client wearing acrylics has a green-black stain on the nail plate and a lifted enhancement. The correct response is to stop, not apply product, and refer the client to a physician; the likely cause is a bacterial infection (pseudomonas). Disinfect reusable implements and discard porous items.
Traps
Do not confuse cuticle with eponychium; cutting living tissue is outside scope. Do not treat fungal or bacterial infections. Do not use MMA. Do not file back and forth on natural nails or use coarse grits on the natural plate.