Final answer:
In a manicure, the nail technician files the free margin of the natural nails, considering their health and safety by having the appropriate training and certification, and using sterilized tools. The cuticle should not be cut, and the nail plate is dead cells. Nails protect fingertips and enhance sensation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When giving a manicure, a nail technician files the natural nails by shaping the free margin, which is the part of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip. It is essential for nail technicians to have proper training and certification to ensure they are aware of the health risks and maintain proper hygiene during the manicure process. Cutting the cuticle is not advisable as it can lead to infection and damage; instead, it should be gently pushed back. The nail plate, which is composed of dead cells, is the hard part of the nail that is visible and attaches to the nail bed. To guarantee a safe manicure or pedicure, it is crucial to ensure cleanliness and sterilization of the tools used by the technician.
Nails are made of specialized epidermal cells filled with keratin which protect the fingertips and enhance sensation. They grow from the nail bed and the nail matrix at the proximal end, where stem cells divide to produce the nail plate and free margin. To maintain nail health, it's vital to consider the biological function and anatomy when performing nail care.