Cosmetology · Manicure Services

The free edge of the nail is:

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

The part of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip

A The part of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip
B The skin at the base
C The matrix
D The part attached to the finger

Why this is the answer

The free edge is the part of the nail plate that extends beyond the end of the finger and the nail bed. It is the portion that is shaped and filed during a manicure. (The matrix is the growth center; the nail bed is the skin under the attached plate; the cuticle/eponychium is at the base.) Correctly identifying the parts of the nail unit, including the free edge, is basic nail anatomy that supports proper manicure technique and is reliably tested on the exam.

Source: Skin & Nails — Free Edge

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About this topic: Manicure Services

Manicure questions cover the tools and products, the step-by-step basic manicure, massage, polish application and the sanitation of implements between clients. This is one of 10 Skin & Nails questions on manicure services, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our Cosmetology exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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The free edge of the nail is:

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Manicure Services

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