Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

Where should primer be applied when performing maintenance with an electric drill?

1. cuticle area

2. natural nail

3. tip of nail

4. sidewalls

The correct answer is: natural nail

When performing maintenance with an electric drill, the appropriate location for primer application is on the natural nail. The primary purpose of primer is to improve the adhesion of the product applied over it, whether that be acrylic or gel enhancements. Applying primer directly to the natural nail helps ensure that the enhancements bond effectively, which is crucial for preventing lifting and ensuring the longevity of the nail service. Understanding the substrate where the primer is applied is essential. The natural nail provides the necessary surface for proper bonding because it is porous and can absorb the primer. This interaction allows for the ideal chemical bond to form between the natural nail and the overlay material. Applying primer to other areas such as the cuticle, tip of the nail, or sidewalls would not serve the primary purpose of enhancing adhesion to the natural nail. In fact, doing so could lead to poor application results and potentially damage the nail or surrounding skin. Hence, the natural nail is the clear and most effective choice for primer application during maintenance.