Nail Technology Final Review

Vocabulary and key concepts from a final review examination on nail anatomy, physiology, and manicuring procedures.

Cuticle

Composed of layers of the cells of the epidermis.

Average Adult Nail Growth

Growth occurs at an average of $1/8$ of an inch a month.

Matrix

The reproductive organ of the nail, well supplied with blood vessels and nerves, where all growth takes place.

Onyx

The technical term for the nail.

Lunula

The visible half moon at the base of the nail.

Eponychium

The extension of excess cuticle at the base of the nail.

Mantle

The deep fold of skin in which the nail root is lodged.

Nail Grooves

Furrowed edges located at the sides of the nail.

Keratin

The substance that composes the nail plate.

Phalanges

The digital bones of the fingers.

Metacarpal bones

The five bones that consist of the palm of the hand.

Ulna

The large bone on the little finger side of the forearm.

Carpus

The wrist bone.

Extensor muscles

Muscles whose function is to straighten the hand and fingers.

Flexor muscles

Muscles whose function is to bend the wrist and fingers.

Ulnar nerve/artery

The nerve and artery that supply the little finger side of the arm.

Radial nerve/artery

The nerve and artery that supply the thumb side of the arm.

Blue nails

Usually a sign of poor blood circulation.

Tinea unguium

The common name for ringworm of the nail.

Hangnails

Caused by dry cuticles or neglect of nails; treated by softening the cuticle with oil.

Split nails

Often associated with systemic deficiency or extreme dryness; may be caused by filing rapidly.

Furrows

Nail depressions that may be caused by injury to the nail matrix or a systemic condition.

Alcohol Sanitation

Instruments should be immersed in a $70\%$ solution for $20\,\text{minutes}$.

Nipper

The instrument used for trimming the cuticle.

Sculptured Nail Adhesion

Ensured by roughening the nail before application.

Nail wrap smoothing

Achieved by using an orangewood stick dipped in polish remover.

Acrylic dipping powder duration

The nail should be inserted into the powder for $5\,\text{seconds}$ during a nail dip.