NIC Nail Technician Written ExamNail Technology ProceduresMedium
A client complains that her recently applied gel polish is peeling from the free edge after only a few days. The technician ensures proper nail preparation, base coat, and color application. What crucial step might the technician be consistently omitting during the gel polish application that leads to this issue?
- ACapping the free edge with each layer of gel polish.
- BUsing a dehydrator and primer before the base coat.
- CApplying an extra-thick layer of base coat.
- DBuffing the natural nail aggressively before applying the base coat.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Capping the free edge with each layer of gel polish.
Capping the free edge (applying a thin layer of gel polish over the tip of the nail) with each coat creates a seal that prevents water and oils from penetrating and causing the gel polish to lift or peel from the free edge.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Dehydrator and primer are crucial for overall adhesion to the nail plate, but omitting them would likely cause lifting from the nail bed or cuticle area, not primarily the free edge peeling.
- C. An extra-thick base coat can lead to wrinkling or incomplete curing, not specifically peeling from the free edge.
- D. Aggressive buffing can thin and damage the natural nail, leading to overall lifting or breakage, not just peeling from the free edge.
Capping the Free Edge
The technique of applying a thin layer of gel polish (or other nail product) over the very tip of the natural nail and wrapping it slightly underneath, sealing the free edge.
- Prevents chipping and peeling from the free edge
- Creates a protective barrier against moisture and oils
- Should be done with each layer (base, color, top coat)
- Enhances durability and longevity of the enhancement
Memory trick: To Prevent Peeling, Properly Paint the Perimeter.