Nail Care and Procedures Flashcards

Which nail enhancement removal method is safest for the natural nail?

Answer: Soaking in acetone with foil wraps

Acetone soaking with foil wraps softens the product evenly, allowing safe removal without excessive mechanical damage.

Leukonychia, the presence of white spots on the nail plate, is most commonly caused by:

Answer: Minor trauma or injury to the nail matrix

White spots (leukonychia) typically result from minor bumps or pressure on the nail matrix during plate formation.

What is the correct consistency for acrylic when picked up with the brush — known as the 'bead'?

Answer: Medium-dry with a dull surface

A medium-dry bead (medium consistency) gives the cosmetologist time to work while providing proper adhesion and structure.

Which nail shape is most recommended for clients with wide nail beds to create the illusion of a slimmer finger?

Answer: Almond or oval

Almond or oval shapes taper toward the tip, visually elongating the finger and narrowing the appearance of wide nail beds.

A nail cosmetologist notices green discoloration under an acrylic enhancement. This is most likely caused by:

Answer: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (bacterial infection)

Green discoloration under enhancements is a classic sign of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria thriving in the moist space.

Which state board regulation governs how often foot baths and pedicure basins must be disinfected?

Answer: After each client service

Pedicure basins must be cleaned and disinfected after each client to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth.

The hyponychium is located:

Answer: Under the free edge where the nail plate separates from the skin

The hyponychium is the thickened skin at the fingertip just beneath the free edge, forming a seal against bacteria.