Prepare for the Illinois Nail Technician Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations, to gear up for your test confidently!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What type of material is keratin?

  1. Soy protein

  2. Hard protein

  3. Soft protein

  4. Dermal tissue

The correct answer is: Hard protein

Keratin is classified as a hard protein, which is significant in the context of nails, hair, and the outer layer of skin. This structural protein provides strength and resilience, making it essential for the protective features of these parts of the body. In the case of nails, keratin contributes to their hard texture and durability, allowing them to serve their protective role effectively. The other materials listed do not accurately describe keratin's nature. Soy protein is a type of plant-based protein that does not share the same structural characteristics as keratin. Soft proteins, while they exist in various biological systems, refer to proteins that do not provide the same rigidity or structural integrity that keratin does. Dermal tissue pertains to the skin layers and is not a type of protein but rather a classification of skin cells and structures. Therefore, identifying keratin as a hard protein provides a clear understanding of its role and importance in nail and hair structure.