Manicuring and Pedicuring Procedures
Sequence and setup
Every service follows the same spine: consult, wash hands, set up a clean station with disinfected implements, perform the service, clean up, and document. The basic manicure: shape with a file moving in one direction on natural nails, soak, gently push back cuticle with a soft tool, apply cuticle oil or cream, massage, then polish. Never use a coarse file on natural nails or file back and forth, which causes splitting. Never cut living tissue; nipping dead hangnails only.
Pedicuring specifics
Pedicures carry higher infection risk. Soak, clean under the free edge, file carefully, use a foot rasp only on callused areas, and follow with moisturizer. Pedicure basins must be cleaned and disinfected between clients per label directions. Diabetic or circulation-compromised clients should be referred to a physician; do not soak or aggressively treat their feet.
Traps
- Massage is contraindicated over inflamed, broken, or infected skin.
- Hot oil or paraffin must be temperature-tested on the technician's wrist.
- "Cut cuticles to prevent hangnails" - false; cutting invites infection.
- Polish application order: base coat, two thin color coats, top coat.
Rule of thumb
For timing, use the thin-coat rule: two thin coats dry faster and last longer than one thick coat. If a client wants a fast turnaround, thin layers plus a quick-dry top coat beat one heavy application every time.