Description
Clean and shape clients' fingernails, care for cuticles and hands, and apply polish or nail art.
- • Clean and sanitize tools, implements, and workstation.
- • Schedule client appointments and process payments.
- • Remove old nail polish or enhancements with appropriate removers.
- • Shape and smooth fingernails using scissors, files, or emery boards.
- • Apply base coat, color, and top coat to fingernails.
- • Advise clients on nail and hand care, products, and colors.
- • Maintain supply inventories and client service records.
- • Roughen natural nail surfaces as needed for enhancements.
- • Promote and sell nail care products.
- • Buff nails to a natural shine when requested.
- • Decorate nails with designs, decals, gems, or other ornaments.
- • Soften and prepare cuticles; push back and trim with proper tools.
- • Soak hands and clean fingernails using swabs, files, and orange sticks.
- • Use rotary tools or e-files to shape nails and artificial extensions.
- • Assess the condition of clients' hands, remove dead skin, and provide hand massage.
- • Repair or strengthen nails with wraps.
- • Create and maintain artificial nail extensions using powders, liquids, forms, or tips.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Available on paid plans only
Interview time
Related Pathways
Healthcare & Human Services
View
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
