Final answer:
To reduce damage when applying nail tips, it's advisable to apply a base coat before attaching the tip and to use a nail tip cutter for trimming. Avoid cutting the cuticle during a manicure to prevent infections and choose safer product alternatives due to potentially harmful chemicals in some nail products.
Step-by-step explanation:
Damage to the natural nail can be reduced when applying nail tips by applying a base coat before attaching the nail tip. The base coat acts as a protective layer between the natural nail and the adhesive used for the nail tips, which can help to prevent damage from the adhesive or the nail tip itself. Additionally, using a nail tip cutter can ensure that the excess tip is trimmed smoothly, reducing the potential for the nail tip to catch and tear the natural nail.
It is advised to avoid cutting the cuticle during a manicure because the cuticle serves as a barrier to protect the nail bed from infections. The part of the nail that is normally trimmed is the nail plate, which is composed of dead keratinocytes filled with keratin. This makes the nail plate hard but flexible. Nail technicians should follow hygienic practices and use products that are safer and less toxic to reduce the risk of adverse effects from professional manicures or pedicures, such as those containing harmful chemicals like dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene, and formaldehyde.