Nails 101

Nail Anatomy

 

 

Free Edge

The part of the natural nail that grows out over the fingertip. Usually referred to in package instructions where consumer is to ‘trim and file the free edge’ before applying nails.

Smile Line

The line created on the natural nail by the nail bed at the free edge. Usually referencing a French nail.

Cuticle

Curved area near the base of natural nail that is surrounded by skin. This is where all new nail growth originates from. Caring for the cuticle area will ensure better nail health.

Moon

The small opaque shape found near the cuticle on natural nails. Not all natural nails have a moon, most thumbs do. Some full cover artificial nails come with a moon ‘painted’ on for a natural nail look.

Nail Bed

Entire surface of your natural nail to your fingertip. Can also be referred to as the pink area.

Full Cover Nails

These are artificial nails that cover the entire natural nail from the cuticle to the free edge. They can come in a variety of lengths and shapes.

Nail Tips

Also called ‘nail extensions.’ These tips are designed to extend the length of the natural nail. They are glued on only at the tip of natural nail leaving most of the natural nail bare. They come in different curvatures and can be cut to any length. A professional overlay is generally applied over entire nail and tip surface to complete the process.

Numbered Edge

Numbers placed on tip of full cover artificial nails to indicate nail size. Once you find your sizes the first time, it makes it easy for you to just pick them out the next time. Hint: The smaller the number the bigger the size!

Nail Lengths

Note: Due to different length nail beds, nail lengths may differ on certain people. Real Short: Nails that end right at fingertip

Short Length: Nails that extend slightly beyond fingertips

Medium Length: Nails that extend beyond fingertip