Pennsylvania Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary tool used in nail filing is the nail file. This tool is specifically designed for shaping and smoothing the edges of the nails. It comes in various forms, such as emery boards, metal files, and glass files, allowing for versatility based on the type of nails being worked on or the desired finish.

Using a nail file helps to prevent nail breakage and achieves a polished look, which is essential in cosmetology practices. A proper filing technique can enhance the overall aesthetic and health of nails, making the nail file an indispensable tool for any cosmetologist or nail technician.

The other choices, while useful in different contexts, do not serve the same purpose as a nail file. For example, a cuticle pusher is primarily utilized for pushing back cuticles rather than filing nails. Scissors are used for cutting, not for filing or shaping. A buffer, on the other hand, is designed to smooth the surface of the nail and add shine rather than shape it. Thus, while all these tools play important roles in nail care, the nail file is the correct answer as it is the main tool for filing nails specifically.