California Cosmetology Written ExamNail CareMedium
A technician is performing a basic pedicure. According to standard California pedicure procedure, what should be done immediately after the client's feet are inspected and before the nail polish is removed?
- AFile the toenails to the desired shape
- BApply cuticle oil to the toenails
- CPerform the foot and leg massage
- DSoak the feet in a disinfected foot spa basin
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Soak the feet in a disinfected foot spa basin
After visually inspecting the client's feet for contraindications, the standard pedicure sequence has the client soak their feet in the disinfected foot spa to soften skin and nails before proceeding with polish removal, filing, and other steps.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Filing occurs after polish removal, not immediately after inspection.
- B. Cuticle oil is applied later in the service, closer to cuticle work.
- C. Massage typically occurs after nail and skin care, near the end of the service.
Pedicure Procedure Order
A basic pedicure generally follows: inspection, foot soak, polish removal, filing/shaping, cuticle work, exfoliation, massage, and polish application.
- Foot spa must be disinfected before each client per CA regulation
- Soaking softens skin for easier callus and cuticle work
- Massage typically comes after nail/skin services, before polish
Memory trick: Inspect, then soak like a bath before the scrub.