Maine Cosmetologist Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The main components of nail structure include the nail plate, nail bed, cuticle, and nail matrix. Each of these elements plays a vital role in the health and growth of the nails.

The nail plate is the hard, protective top layer of the nail that is visible and serves as the primary structure. It is composed of a tough protein called keratin, which also makes up hair and the outer layer of skin. The nail bed, located beneath the nail plate, contains a rich supply of blood vessels and nerves, making it critical for nourishment and sensation.

The cuticle is the thin layer of skin that overlaps the nail plate at the base and acts as a barrier against infection by protecting the area where the nail grows from pathogens. The nail matrix, situated under the base of the nail, is where new nail cells are produced, leading to the growth of the nail.

Understanding these components is crucial for maintaining proper nail health and performing effective nail care treatments, making option A the correct answer. The other choices pertain to products used for nail aesthetics and maintenance, such as polishes and tools, which do not describe the anatomical structure of the nail.