North Dakota Cosmetology Practice Exam

The procedure used to improve nail health by filing and shaping the nails is a manicure. A manicure focuses specifically on the hands and fingernails, encompassing a range of activities such as filing, shaping, buffing, and often polishing the nails. This process not only enhances the appearance of the nails but also contributes to their overall health by removing rough edges and creating a neat shape. It is a common practice in both professional and home settings to maintain the aesthetics and hygiene of the nails.

The other options, while related to nail care, do not specifically address the process of filing and shaping the nails in the same way that a manicure does. A pedicure, for example, is focused on the toenails and feet, while nail sculpting refers to more advanced techniques for creating nail enhancements. Cuticle care is an important aspect of overall nail health but does not involve the actual filing and shaping of the nails themselves. Thus, the manicure is distinctly the procedure that emphasizes improving nail health through filing and shaping.