Rock the 2026 Minnesota Cosmetology Exam – Flaunt Your Skills and Glam Up Your Future!

In a manicure, the primary purpose of the cuticle pusher is to gently push back the cuticles. This tool is designed specifically to manage the cuticle area without causing damage to the skin. By pushing back the cuticles, nail technicians can create a clean, well-defined nail bed, which not only improves the appearance of the nails but also prepares them for polishing and further nail treatments. Proper cuticle management is essential for maintaining nail health and promoting growth, as it helps to prevent hangnails and other irritations.

The other options refer to different tasks that are typically performed during a manicure but do not align with the specific function of a cuticle pusher. For instance, removing nail polish requires different tools such as cotton pads and remover, while shaping nails involves using clippers, files, or buffers. Applying nail treatment typically involves additional products as well as a careful application technique, which again is separate from the role of the cuticle pusher. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the tool's specialized function in cuticle care.