Montana Cosmetology Licensure Practice Exam

Cuticles are typically softened during a manicure to allow for easier removal and shaping. This is done before shaping the nail in order to avoid accidentally damaging the cuticles while filing or buffing the nails. Softening the cuticles after shaping the nail may also cause the nail shape to be altered or uneven. Additionally, softening the cuticles after applying nail polish can potentially ruin the polish or cause it to chip.