Manicure, Pedicure and Nail Care
This section covers Manicure, Pedicure and Nail Care. The exam tests nail anatomy, filing, cuticle care, tool sterilization, massage and contraindications.
Nail anatomy
A nail has a plate, bed, matrix, lunula, cuticle and surrounding skin folds. The matrix makes new nail cells; the lunula is the visible part of the matrix. The cuticle seals the nail base against infection and should be pushed back gently, not cut roughly.
Service rules
Soak, clean, shape with a file using one-direction strokes, push back cuticles gently, massage hand or foot, and polish if requested. Buff lightly and avoid over-thinning the plate. Pedicure includes soaking, exfoliation, nail care and massage. Use sterilized nippers and pushers; use single-use files or disinfect suitable ones. Contraindications include fungal nail infection, paronychia, open cuts and severe circulatory problems. Diabetic clients need medical clearance and extra care with water temperature and sharp tools.
Worked example
A client has a greenish-black discoloration on one toenail. The therapist should not apply polish or cut the nail; refer the client for medical assessment. Reason: discoloration may indicate infection or injury, and covering it with polish delays treatment and spreads contamination.
Traps
Cutting cuticles, filing back and forth, sharing files, and using very hot water are common errors. Never treat an infected nail as a cosmetic problem.