Manicuring and Pedicuring
What the exam tests
Manicuring and pedicuring tests safe service sequence, shaping, cuticle care, massage, and pedicure basin sanitation. A basic manicure includes consultation, hand washing, product removal, shaping, soak, cuticle care, massage, and polish. A pedicure adds foot soak, exfoliation, callus care, nail trimming, and basin disinfection.
Core rules
- File natural nails in one direction with a fine-grit file; sawing back and forth creates splits.
- Trim toenails straight across and file corners gently; do not cut into the sidewalls.
- Soften cuticle with product, push back gently, and nip only nonliving hangnails. Do not cut live tissue.
- Sanitize the basin before and after each client; clean and disinfect the screen and internal lines per manufacturer instructions.
- Use single-use pedicure slippers or disinfect nonporous sandals; discard porous files and buffers.
- Caution with diabetes, circulatory problems, neuropathy, blood thinners, and open lesions; refer when uncertain.
Worked example
A client has a red, swollen toe corner with pain. Reasoning: this suggests an ingrown nail or infection, not a cosmetic issue. Do not cut the corner out, do not apply acrylic over it, and refer to a physician. You may soak the foot only if the client's provider allows it, but avoid aggressive manipulation and document the referral.
Traps
Cutting cuticles; over-soaking, which softens the plate; using a credo blade or sharp callus tool aggressively; and skipping basin line cleaning because the basin looks clean. Also avoid promising that a pedicure will cure foot odor or fungus.