Manicure, Pedicure and Nail Care
What the exam tests
This domain tests nail anatomy, manicure and pedicure sequence, filing, cuticle care, massage, polish application and infection control. Expect questions on when to refuse service, how to handle tools, and why diabetic clients need special care.
Core rules and concepts
- The nail plate sits on the nail bed. The cuticle seals the nail base; the lunula is the pale half-moon. The matrix produces new nail cells.
- Manicure sequence: sanitise hands, remove old polish, file in one direction, buff lightly, soak, apply cuticle softener, gently push back cuticle, massage, base coat, polish, top coat.
- Pedicure adds foot soak, callus care and careful nail trimming. Do not cut live cuticles or over-buff the nail plate.
- Use single-use files and buffers, or disinfect reusable tools. Foot spas must be cleaned and disinfected between clients.
- Refuse service for fungal infection, warts, open cuts or severe ingrown nails. Diabetic clients need gentle care and referral if circulation or sensation is poor.
Worked example
A client has a red, swollen toe edge and asks for a pedicure. Do not cut the nail or massage the area. Refer the client for medical advice. Reasoning: the signs suggest infection or an ingrown nail; salon tools could spread infection and cutting could worsen tissue damage.
Traps that cost marks
- Cutting live cuticles.
- Sharing files and buffers.
- Over-buffing thin nails.
- Treating infected or diabetic feet without caution.
- Filing back and forth roughly and splitting the nail.