SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Apply gel nail enhancement 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
377501  Apply gel nail enhancement 
ORIGINATOR
Task Team - Beauty and Skin Care 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Personal Care 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
The person credited with this unit standard is able to prepare their workstation for nail enhancements and prepare the client for the required treatment. Learners will acquire knowledge and skills and apply a range of gel, nail applications using a range of products. It requires knowledge and skill in the safe use of products and equipment and of legislation and policy, particularly in regard to hygiene.

The qualifying learner is able to:
  • Prepare the client and the workstation for a gel nail enhancement service.
  • Prepare the nail plate according to manufacturers recommendation.
  • Apply, shape and blend artificial tips.
  • Apply the sculpting form.
  • Applying gel nail enhancement according to clients needs.
  • Filling and removing gel nail enhancement. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners accessing this qualification will have demonstrated competence in:
  • Communication Skills at NQF Level 3.
  • Mathematical Lliteracy at NQF Level 3.

    It is also assumed that learners are competent in the following unit standard:
  • "Perform a manicure and pedicure service" at NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • Fibre glass/silk wrap, special occasion/temporary tips, non light gels and UV gel coating over acrylic.

    Nail enhancement application will include:
  • Filing, shaping, buffing, repairs, natural nail overlays, natural nail extensions and natural nail (mends). 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Prepare the client and the workstation for a gel nail enhancement service. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The workstation is prepared f according to organisational requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The client is received and prepared according to organisational requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Client needs and expectations are evaluated to enable advice and recommendations for a treatment plan. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Various types of gel nails are identified and described in terms of their advantages and disadvantages. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Areas of the hands/nails requiring special treatment are identified and noted in order to make recommendations for further treatments. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Gel nail application and finished nail shape are selected according to treatment plan and confirmed with client. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare the nail plate according to manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A complete set of nails to be used is selected and prepared without mixing of products. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Cuticles are prepared/pushed back gently as required without damage to nail bed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Nail products are applied in a sequence according to the supplier's instructions and recommendations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Different preparation products used for the preparation of the natural nail are identified and explained with examples. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Apply, shape and blend artificial tips. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Nail tips are selected to ensure that they are fit to the size and shape of the client's natural nails. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Tips are applied with adhesive to fit from "side to side". 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Methods and techniques for adhesive removal are explained in terms of their application. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Tips are cut and shaped according to client's preference. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Tips are blended to a natural colour without any lines, milky shadows or over buffed according to company's safety and hygienic requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Apply the sculpting form. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A complete set of nails is selected and used without the occurrence of mixing of products. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The form is applied without any seepage or exposure to skin. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The form is applied to follow the natural shape of the nail. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The forms are applied and customised to ensure a straight fit. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Apply gel nail enhancement according to client's needs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Gel nail products are selected according to treatment plan and confirmed with client. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The use of nail products is explained in line with the manufacturer's instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Application techniques are adapted to meet the client's nail shape and condition. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Application techniques are managed so that it leaves a free margin around the cuticles and sidewall area of the nail. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Type of gel nail application and finished nail shape are selected according to treatment plan and confirmed with client. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The need to ensure that nail shape and length complement the client's nails and hands is explained with examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The finished surface of the nail is balanced with a smooth, even finish and an even clear defined small line. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    A client's record card is completed for future reference and use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Service is conducted according to organisation's hygiene standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Fill and removal of gel nail enhancements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Artificial nail removal products and equipment are selected and applied sequentially according to manufacturer instructions and client requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The condition of the natural nail and enhancement and structure is assessed in order to update the client's record card. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Problems are identified and noted in order to take corrective action. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Removal products and equipment are selected and applied sequentially according to manufacturer instructions and client requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Nail enhancement are removed according to manufacturer instructions and client requirements to avoid damage on the natural nail and traces of product on the nail. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Techniques to maintain and restore the enhancement structures to their original conditions are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 7 
    Provide aftercare advice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Questioning and listening techniques are used to obtain client feedback in order to record the outcomes of the treatment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Future treatment plan is recommended according to client needs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Aftercare advice and homecare product recommendations are provided according to client needs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Treatment plan is revised as required. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard or assessing this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • A comprehensive understanding of how to adapt application techniques to meet the different nail shapes and conditions.
  • A comprehensive understanding of the importance of the free margin around the cuticle area and sidewall area.
  • A comprehensive understanding of the chemical reactions that take place during the formation of nail enhancement structures.
  • A broad understanding of the importance of achieving maximum strength, appearance and longevity by use of correct nail balance and shaping.
  • A broad understanding of the importance of choosing the correct tip size and the methods used when applying techniques.
  • An in depth understanding of the differences in application and process for different nail enhancements.
  • A basic understanding of the range and use of products available for homecare.
  • Types of gel nail enhancement services and types of gel nails available.
  • Adhesive techniques are applied as per manufacturer's instructions.
  • Nail assessment principles, methods and techniques.
  • Methods and techniques for applying gel nails.
  • Methods and techniques for shaping and blending artificial tips and extensions.
  • Methods and techniques for the safe removal of nail enhancements. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others by applying and maintaining knowledge of workplace procedures and relevant legislation will require reporting to other staff members. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively in order to assess the maintenance of a clean and safe working environment. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, evaluate, organise and critically evaluate information in order to advise clients of maintenance requirements and advantages and disadvantages of various products. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively with clients in order to prepare them for the treatment, explaining fully methods to be used and advising clients on homecare and complementary products will require the communication of ideas and information. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically in order to use, remove, store and dispose of products as well as basic product applications. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Integrated Assessment:

    When conducting assessments, assessors must ensure that they are familiar with the full text of the unit standards being assessed. Assessors must ensure that the assessment covers the specific outcomes, critical cross-field outcomes and essential embedded knowledge by developing assessment methods, instruments and/or tools, which are appropriate to the contexts in which the learners are working. These activities and tools may include self-assessment, peer assessment, formative and summative assessment. It may be more effective and efficient to assess a number of unit standards together in an integrated way, thus reducing the overall number of assessments and ensuring that commonalities that exist between a number of unit standards are captured in a way that makes sense for assessment.

    Assessment Option:

    Learners could be assessed using the following methods:
  • Oral or written questions.
  • Discussions.
  • Portfolios.
  • Observation.
  • Simulation. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  80646   Further Education and Training Certificate: Beauty and Nail Technology  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.