Manicure

A manicure is a cosmetic beauty treatment for the fingernails and hands, performed at home or in a nail salon. A manicure consists of filing and shaping of the free edge, pushing (with a cuticle pusher) and clipping (with cuticle nippers) any nonliving tissue (limited to cuticle and hangnails), treatments, massage of the hand, and the application of fingernail polish. When applied to the toenails and feet, this treatment is referred to as a pedicure.

Some manicures can include the painting of pictures or designs on the nails, or applying small decals or imitation jewels. Other nail treatments may include the application of artificial nail gel nails, tips, or acrylics, some of which are referred to as French manicures.

In many areas, manicurists are licensed and follow regulations. Since skin is manipulated and is sometimes trimmed, there is a certain risk of spreading infection when tools are used across many people; therefore, sanitation is a serious issue.

The English word manicure comes from the French word manucure, meaning "care of the hands", which in turn originates from the Latin words manus, for "hand", and cura, for "care". Similarly, the English word pedicure comes from the Latin words ped, for "foot", and cura, for "care".

The popularity and fascination with nail art has increased in recent years due to a flourishing online community that shares tips, tricks and designs via social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, and Pinterest.

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