THE STUDY OF NAILS
Nail Shapes
Although nails grow in assorted shapes
and sizes from convex to concave, wide to
narrow, round to angular,
there are four
basic nail shapes: pointed, oval, round
and square.
Generally, the more square
the nail shape, the stronger it is. It will be
your job to enhance the natural shape of
your client's nails, the shape of their fingers and the overall appearance of their hands. In choosing
the nail length and polish color you'll recommend, consider the appearance of your client's hands,
what they do with their hands each day and, of course, your client's wishes.
Nail Essentials
To perform a professional nail service, you need a selection of products, implements and equipment.
Nail service products are produced by many different manufacturers, are disposable and must be fre-
quently replaced. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all products used in the salon must be
available. Nail service implements are the hand-held tools you use. They must be disinfected or dis-
carded after every use. Nail service equipment includes the furnishings and provisions necessary to
provide a professional nail service.
Nail Service Products
PRODUCT
DESCRIPTION
FUNCTION
Disinfectant
Chemical product
Destroy or kill bacteria and
some viruses
Antiseptic
Liquid or foam-based products
Reduces bacteria, viruses and
fungus on skin
Styptic Product
Liquid or spray
Stops bleeding when applied
Polish Remover
Acetone or non-acetone
Dissolves polish
Cotton Balls or
Absorbent; pledglets are cotton pads
Used to apply polish
Pledglets
removers, powder feet,
remove lotions from nail
plate
Cuticle Remover
Low percent hydrogen peroxide,
Loosens dead skin
Cream
sodium or potassium hydroxide
571
1
4
square
pointed
oval
round
