Which item is commonly used to remove debris from the nail sidewalls?

• A. Curette
• B. Nail buffer
• C. Orange stick
• D. Nail clippers

Answer: (A)

A tool with a small scoop-shaped edge is used to clean debris from the nail sidewalls. The curette is designed to fit the curve of the nail folds and under the sidewalls, allowing you to lift away dust, skin debris, and adhesive residue without injuring the surrounding skin. This precise scooping action makes it ideal for cleaning the sidewalls before a manicure or nail enhancement. Other tools have different primary jobs: a nail buffer smooths and shines the nail surface, an orange stick is mainly for pushing back cuticles and tidying the edge (and can be less precise for sidewall debris), and nail clippers trim the nail itself rather than clean the debris from the sidewalls.