Cosmetology · Nail Science

Healthy natural nails are primarily made of a protein called:

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Correct answer

Keratin

A Elastin
B Melanin
C Keratin
D Collagen

Why this is the answer

Healthy natural nails are made primarily of keratin, the same tough, fibrous protein that makes up hair and the outer layer of skin. The hardened keratin gives the nail plate its strength and protective quality. (Collagen and elastin are proteins of the dermis; melanin is the pigment that colors skin and hair.) Knowing that both nails and hair are composed largely of keratin is a basic but frequently tested fact connecting nail and hair science on the cosmetology exam.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Keratin

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About this topic: Nail Science

Nail science covers the structure of the natural nail (plate, bed, matrix, cuticle), nail growth, and the nail disorders and diseases that determine whether a service can go ahead. This is one of 6 Scientific Concepts questions on nail science, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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Healthy natural nails are primarily made of a protein called:

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Nail Science

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