Anatomy & DisordersQuestion 66 of 100
Which tissue is the true cuticle, the only tissue a manicurist may gently remove?
a.The dead, colorless tissue that clings to the surface of the nail plate
b.The living skin at the base of the nail plate
c.The skin that seals underneath the free edge
d.The wall of skin along each side of the nail
Explanation
The true cuticle is dead, colorless tissue shed onto the surface of the nail plate, and because it is not living it may be softened and gently removed. The living skin at the base is the eponychium, the seal under the free edge is the hyponychium, and the skin along the sides is the nail fold or sidewall; all three are living and may never be cut. Confusing the eponychium with the cuticle is the most common reason technicians cut skin they should not touch.
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Related questions on this topic
- A nervous first-time client asks why she cannot feel anything when you file the surface of her nail. What is the correct explanation?
- You remove a client's polish and notice that the natural nail looks pink through the plate. What is responsible for that pink color?
- A client asks you to cut all of her cuticle off and points to the band of living skin at the base of the nail plate. What must you do?
- A client asks you to dig deep underneath the free edge of her nails with a metal tool so they will be really clean. Why should you refuse?
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