Manicurists and Pedicurists

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (6%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 1 (6%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 16 (89%)

• Maintain supply inventories and records of client services.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Schedule client appointments and accept payments.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Clean and sanitize tools and work environment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Apply undercoat and clear or colored polish onto nails with brush.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Shape and smooth ends of nails, using scissors, files, or emery boards.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Prepare nail cuticles with water and oil, using cuticle knives to push back cuticles and scissors or nippers to trim cuticles.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Prepare customers' nails in soapy water, using swabs, files, and orange sticks.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove previously applied nail polish, using liquid remover and swabs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Use rotary abrasive wheels to shape and smooth nails or artificial extensions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Assess the condition of clients' hands, remove dead skin, and massage hands.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Roughen surfaces of fingernails, using abrasive wheel.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Advise clients on nail care and use of products and colors.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Treat nails to repair or improve strength and resilience by wrapping.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Extend nails using powder, solvent, and paper forms attached to tips of customers' fingers to support and shape artificial nails.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Polish nails, using powdered polish and buffer.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Whiten underside of nails with white paste or pencils.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Promote and sell nail care products.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Decorate clients' nails by piercing or attaching ornaments or designs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task