**US Invitational Acrylic Nails Judging Criteria


Judge 1


Smile Lines — 10 Points

  • the smile lines are crisp (definition between pink and white)
  • the smile lines are symmetrical and consistent (even points and equal curvature)

"C" curves — 10 Points

  • the curvature of the nail enhancements is symmetrical and consistent
  • the depth of curvature is a range between 40% and 50%
  • the percent of curvature enhances the models nails
  • if nail enhancements are oval in shape, consideration will be given for the apparent lack of curvature at the distal edge

Cuticle Area — 10 Points

  • the product is flush to the natural nails and close to the cuticles
  • the model’s skin at the cuticle area is in excellent condition (free from abrasions)

Shape — 10 Points

  • the shape is symmetrical and consistent individually
  • the shape is symmetrical and consistent together

Judge 2


Product Control — 5 Points

  • the product is completely free of air bubbles and pits
  • the color of the product is consistent
  • the skin is free from all products

Moons — 5 Points

  • the moons are properly placed
  • the moons have not been filed off
  • they enhance the nail extension

Surface Structure — 10 Points

  • the top surfaces of the nail enhancements are smooth and perfectly contoured
  • the bottom surfaces of the nail enhancements are smooth and perfectly contoured
  • the arch of the nail enhancements is consistently located

Lateral Structure — 10 Points

  • the nail enhancements align perfectly with the sides of the natural nails
  • if nail enhancements are oval in shape, the point at which the oval begins is consistent

Judge 3


Length — 10 Points

  • the length, measured from cuticle to the end of the extension, is consistent between matching nails (pinkie to pinkie, etc.) and in proportion to each other
  • the length is suitable for competition-style nail enhancements; a suggested range of a 1 to 1 ratio of nail bed to free edge is ideal, provided the length looks balanced on model’s hands

Polish Application — 5 Points

  • the polish completely covers the nails (close to the cuticle and covers all edges)
  • the application is smooth, even and clean

Finish Work — 5 Points

  • the entire surface of the nail enhancement is smooth and very shiny (absence of scratches)
  • the edges of the nails are smooth and finished
  • the nails are thoroughly clean (absence of dust)

Overall Impression — 10 Points

  • the nails complement the model’s hands
  • the thinness is suitable for competition-style nail enhancements (the thinness of a business card, approximately .01 to .03 inches, is ideal)