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Acrylics: A type of nail enhancement that involves applying a mixture of liquid and powder acrylic to the natural nails or nail tips.
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Gel nails: A type of nail enhancement that involves applying a gel polish to the natural nails or nail tips and curing it with a UV or LED lamp.
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Cuticle: The thin layer of skin that overlaps the base of the nail.
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Nail bed: The area of the nail that is attached to the skin and where the nail plate grows.
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Nail plate: The visible part of the nail that sits on top of the nail bed.
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Nail tip: An artificial extension that can be applied to the natural nails to add length.
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Nail form: A type of paper or metal template that is used to create a sculpted nail extension.
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Primer: A liquid that is applied to the natural nails before the application of acrylics or gels to help the product adhere better.
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UV lamp: A type of lamp that emits ultraviolet light and is used to cure gel nail polish.
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LED lamp: A type of lamp that emits light-emitting diodes and is used to cure gel nail polish.
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C-curve: The curvature of the nail from side to side, which is achieved through shaping and filing.
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Monomer: A type of liquid used in acrylic nail application to create the polymer that forms the nail enhancement.
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Polymer: A substance created by combining the monomer with the acrylic powder to form the nail enhancement.
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Nail drill: A tool used to shape and file the nails, usually equipped with different attachments for various tasks.
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French manicure: A classic nail design that involves painting the tips of the nails white and leaving the rest of the nail bed natural or painted with a sheer pink polish.
Knowing these terms is just the beginning of your journey as a nail technician. As you continue to work in the industry, you will encounter more terms and techniques that will add to your knowledge and skills. Keep learning, practicing, and experimenting to become the best nail technician you can be.