Texas Nail — Written Practice

Question 1 of 10

Manicure & Pedicure Procedures

A client wants the strongest natural nail shape for daily typing work. Which shape is the WORST choice?

A B (oval)

B A (square)

C D (stiletto / pointed)

D C (round)

Explanation

Stiletto/pointed shapes (D) are the most fragile because most of the nail extends past the support of the nail bed and the narrow point concentrates stress. For a typist or client doing daily manual work, stiletto natural nails will chip, split, or break constantly. Suggest an oval or short squoval instead.

Question 2 of 10

Nail Disorders & Diseases

The condition shown — separation of the nail plate from the nail bed starting at the free edge — is called:

A Onychogryphosis

B Onychocryptosis

C Onycholysis

D Onychorrhexis

Explanation

Onycholysis is the painless separation of the nail plate from the bed (without shedding). Causes include trauma, fungal infection, certain medications, or chemicals. Suspicious cases — especially with discoloration — should be referred to a doctor.

Question 3 of 10

Nail Disorders & Diseases Featured

This severely thickened, curled, ram's-horn-shaped toenail condition is called:

A Onychogryphosis

B Onycholysis

C Onychomycosis

D Koilonychia

Explanation

Onychogryphosis ("ram's horn nail") is severe nail thickening and curvature, most often on the big toe. Causes include long-term neglect, trauma, or poor circulation in elderly clients. Refer to a podiatrist — do NOT attempt to file or cut down in the salon.

Question 4 of 10

Sanitation, Disinfection & Infection Control Featured

A whirlpool foot spa must be cleaned and disinfected:

A Only when visibly dirty

B Once a day at closing

C After each client

D Once a week

Explanation

Texas TDLR requires foot spas to be cleaned and disinfected after EVERY client, with a more thorough weekly disinfection and a documented log.

Question 5 of 10

Anatomy & Physiology of the Nail

The region highlighted in yellow under the free edge of the nail is called the:

A Cuticle

B Free edge

C Matrix

D Hyponychium

Explanation

The hyponychium is the thickened skin underneath the free edge of the nail. It forms a protective seal that blocks bacteria and debris from entering under the nail plate.

Question 6 of 10

Sanitation, Disinfection & Infection Control Featured

What is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection in a nail salon?

A Hand washing with soap and water

B Wearing latex gloves at all times

C Wiping tools with alcohol pads

D Using antibacterial sprays

Explanation

Frequent and thorough hand washing is universally recognized as the single most effective infection-control measure. Gloves and disinfectants are supplements, not substitutes.

Question 7 of 10

Texas Laws & Regulations Featured

Texas nail technician licenses are issued by:

A Texas Board of Cosmetology

B Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

C Local city government

D US Department of Labor

Explanation

Since 2017, all cosmetology and barbering licenses in Texas — including Manicurist (Nail Technician) — are issued and regulated by TDLR. The former Texas Cosmetology Commission was abolished.

Question 8 of 10

Nail Enhancements (Acrylic & Gel) Featured

MMA (methyl methacrylate) is:

A The current standard for safe nail enhancements

B A type of UV gel

C Banned by most state boards including Texas TDLR for nail use

D Only allowed for pedicures

Explanation

MMA causes severe allergic reactions, nail damage, and is extremely difficult to remove. EMA (ethyl methacrylate) is the legal alternative. Use of MMA can cost you your license.

Question 9 of 10

Manicure & Pedicure Procedures Featured

Looking at the polish stroke diagram, in what order should the three strokes be applied for an even coat?

A 1 → 3 → 2 (center, right, then left)

B Random — order does not matter

C 2 → 1 → 3 (left side, then center, then right)

D 1 → 2 → 3 (center first, then both sides)

Explanation

Standard 3-stroke technique: load the brush, place it just above the cuticle in the CENTER of the nail (stroke 1), then sweep down each SIDE (strokes 2 and 3). Center first ensures the most polish lands on the visual focal point and the sides blend into it for an even, professional finish.

Question 10 of 10

Anatomy & Physiology of the Nail Featured

In the cross-section illustration above, which structure is responsible for producing new nail cells?

A Matrix

B Free edge

C Nail bed

D Hyponychium

Explanation

The matrix is the active cell-producing tissue at the base of the nail. Damage here can permanently deform the nail.

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