Sanitize tools, lay out fresh towels, restock polish and gels.
Shape nails, ease back cuticles, apply gel, cure under the lamp.
Client has a yellow, lifting nail. Pause, advise a doctor visit.
Client wants tiny florals. Paint freehand, one thin line at a time.
Soak, scrub, trim cuticles carefully, finish with a long massage.
Build extensions bead by bead, then file and shape them even.
Walk-in wants long, intricate nails. Explain what will actually hold up.
Running behind. Take the time the set needs, apologize to the next client.
Wipe surfaces, disinfect tools, post photos of today's best nails.
- Paint custom nail art, from tiny details to full designs.
- Shape nails and apply polish, gel, or dip powder.
- Build acrylic or builder gel extensions to add length and strength.
- Give manicures and pedicures with soaks, scrubs, and massage.
- Trim cuticles and smooth rough skin without nicking clients.
- Is this redness or discoloration just irritation, or something I should send them to a doctor for?
- Do I keep going with this service, or is this nail too damaged to work on safely?
- The client wants a design that won't hold up on their nails, so do I say so or just do it?
- Should I cut this cuticle a little closer, or leave it so I don't risk nicking them?
- I'm running behind, so do I rush this set or take the time it needs?
People usually reach this work through experience rather than a college program.
Explore more colleges →Cosmetologists provide beauty and personal care services like cutting and coloring hair, doing manicures, applying makeup, and giving facials. They work in salons, spas, or as freelancers, and must complete a licensed training program and pass a state exam to practice.
Estheticians are licensed skin care specialists who analyze skin, give facials, peels, and waxing, and recommend products and routines. They work in spas, salons, and skin clinics, or for themselves, and need a state license.
Makeup artists use cosmetics to enhance or completely transform how people look for weddings, photo shoots, fashion shows, film, TV, and theater. Some specialize in special effects, creating wounds, aging, or creatures.
