Ohio State Board Nail Technician Practice Exam

Nail strengtheners often contain keratin, a fibrous protein that is an essential component of nails, hair, and skin. Keratin provides structural support and resilience, making it critical for enhancing the strength and durability of nails. When applied topically in nail strengtheners, keratin can help strengthen weak or brittle nails by reinforcing their natural structure. This ingredient is particularly effective because it mimics the natural protein found in the nails, promoting healthier nail growth and reducing the likelihood of breakage.

While other ingredients like calcium and biotin can also contribute to nail health in different ways, keratin is specifically included in strengtheners because of its direct role in the composition of the nails themselves. Calcium may aid in overall nail health but does not have the same structural role, and biotin is more associated with improving nail growth rather than strength. Therefore, keratin stands out as the primary ingredient specifically targeted for strengthening nails.