Which tool is essential for pushing back cuticles during a manicure?

The choice of an orange wood stick as the essential tool for pushing back cuticles during a manicure is based on its design and functionality. An orange wood stick is typically made of soft wood that is gentle on the nail plate and the surrounding skin. Its tapered end allows for effective and precise lifting of the cuticle without risking damage to the nail bed or surrounding tissue. This tool is especially useful because it minimizes the risk of injury, which can occur if a sharper tool were to be used.

Additionally, the orange wood stick can also be easily sanitized or disposed of after use, making it a hygienic option within the manicure process. It is a common staple in professional nail care, facilitating a clean and well-groomed appearance for the nails by repositioning the cuticles away from the nail.

While cuticle nippers are designed for trimming excess cuticle and can be a critical tool in certain aspects of manicure care, they are not ideal for pushing back cuticles. Files and nail buffers serve different purposes, focusing instead on shaping and smoothing the nail surface rather than managing the cuticles.