Chemistry & Terms
What is a monomer?
A single unit molecule in liquid form
What type of enhancement is applied directly over the natural nail without adding length?
Overlay
In acrylic nail placement, what area does Zone 1 represent?
The Free Edge
How frequently should a client schedule a fill (rebalance) service?
Every 2 to 3 weeks
Why is proper salon ventilation essential during monomer liquid application?
To minimize inhalation of chemical vapors and dust particles.
What is polymerization?
The chemical reaction that hardens the product
What is a sculptured nail?
A nail enhancement built and shaped using a nail form instead of a preformed tip.
What is Zone 2, and why is it critical in nail enhancement design?
The Stress Area
What safe liquid is used to soak off and dissolve acrylic enhancements during removal?
Acetone
Why must nail technicians avoid direct skin contact with monomer liquids and primers?
Skin contact can cause skin irritation or severe allergic sensitization.
Which monomer liquid ingredient is safe for professional nail services?
EMA (Ethyl Methacrylate)
List the three standard types of preformed nail tips.
Full-well, Half-well, and Well-less
Where is Zone 3 located on the natural nail?
The Cuticle Area
What is the primary cause of enhancement lifting?
Improper nail preparation or presence of natural oils/cuticle tissue on the nail plate.
How should dappen dishes and implements contaminated with monomer liquid be disinfected or disposed of?
Wipe with absorbent paper towels, seal in plastic bags before trash disposal, and disinfect implements.
Why is MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) prohibited/restricted in professional nail care?
It can damage natural nails, cause allergic reactions, and is difficult to remove.
What are two key advantages of using nail forms over preformed tips?
Allows custom shaping, requires no tip attachment, and offers a natural appearance.
Define the apex of an acrylic nail enhancement.
The highest point of the enhancement that provides structural strength.
What causes cracking or cloudiness in acrylic enhancements?
Cracking = Thin application; Cloudiness = Contaminated liquid monomer.
What personal protective equipment (PPE) helps protect against accidental skin contact with chemicals?
Nitrile gloves
What product is applied to the natural nail plate prior to enhancement application to improve adhesion?
primer
What are the four step instructions for proper nail tip application?
1. Size tip correctly, 2. Apply adhesive, 3. Blend tip carefully, 4. Avoid damaging natural nail plate.
When blending a nail tip, what must a nail technician avoid filing directly?
The natural nail plate
What step should NEVER be taken when removing acrylic nail enhancements?
Never force, pry, or pop enhancements off.
What environmental factor causes acrylic enhancement product yellowing?
UV light exposure (or contaminated monomer liquid)