Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

During a dip system application, keep the resin base coat 1/2" away from the cuticle and _______ away from the lateral fold.

1. 1/4"

2. 1/2"

3. 1"

4. 1/8"

The correct answer is: 1/4"

In a dip system application, maintaining a specific distance from the cuticle and lateral fold is vital to prevent potential lifting and ensure a professional finish. Keeping the resin base coat 1/2" away from the cuticle helps avoid product contact with the skin, which can lead to irritation or infections. The correct distance from the lateral fold is critical as well; 1/4" is recommended to provide a buffer that allows for natural nail growth and movement without compromising the bond of the dip system at the sides of the nail. This distance aids in preventing the product from adhering to the skin, which can cause discomfort and negatively affect the longevity of the manicure. Selecting a larger distance might be unnecessary and could result in less nail coverage, while a smaller distance may cause adhesion issues or skin irritation. Therefore, 1/4" effectively balances coverage and safety during application.