Ace the Illinois Cosmetology Exam 2025 – Glam Up and Shine Bright!

For a basic manicure, having the right supplies is essential to effectively care for and beautify the nails. The correct choice includes a nail file, buffer, cuticle pusher, and polish.

The nail file is used to shape the fingernails, ensuring they have a clean and desired edge. The buffer plays a crucial role in smoothing the nail surface, creating a polished look that enhances the natural shine of the nails. A cuticle pusher is necessary for gently pushing back the cuticles, which promotes healthy nail growth and presents a neat appearance. Finally, polish is applied to color and protect the nails, making the manicure complete.

The other options include items that, while potentially useful in other contexts, do not constitute the fundamental components of a basic manicure. Scissors and wax may be associated with depilation or grooming, and decorative elements like stickers, pens, foils, or glitters focus on nail art, which goes beyond the scope of a basic manicure. Thus, understanding these primary tools allows for a proper manicure procedure that meets standard expectations in cosmetology.