What are the key steps in performing a manicure?

The correct answer identifies the essential steps to perform a thorough and professional manicure. Starting with soaking the hands helps to soften the cuticles, making it easier to push them back and ensuring the skin becomes more pliable.

Shaping the nails is an important next step, as it allows for uniformity and can enhance the overall appearance. Pushing back the cuticles is crucial for maintaining healthy nail beds and ensuring a clean edge for any polish application. Buffing the nails aids in smoothing the surface, promoting a polished look and allowing the nail polish to adhere better. Finally, applying polish completes the manicure, providing color and protection to the nails.

By following these systematic steps, a manicure not only improves the aesthetic of the nails but also contributes to their overall health. This sequence reflects best practices in nail care, encompassing both preparation and finish, resulting in a polished and professional look that clients expect from a cosmetology service.