Which condition involves the loosening or separation of the nail plate?

The condition that involves the loosening or separation of the nail plate is onycholysis. This condition can occur due to various factors such as trauma, infections, or exposure to certain chemicals. In onycholysis, the nail plate detaches from the nail bed, leading to an unsightly appearance and, in some cases, pain or discomfort.

Onychomycosis, while a common nail condition, refers specifically to fungal infections that affect the nail, often leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the nail rather than separation. Onychorrhexis is characterized by brittle nails that are prone to splitting and peeling, which does not involve loosening or separation. Pincer nails are a structural deformity of the nail causing it to curve inward, affecting its shape but not causing the separation from the nail bed. Understanding onycholysis is crucial for nail technicians, as it helps identify and manage nail conditions appropriately.