Manicurists and pedicurists held about 113,600 jobs in 2014, of which 68 percent were in the personal care services industry. About 3 in 10 were self-employed, many running their own nail salon business.
Manicurists and pedicurists usually work in a nail salon, spa, or hair salon. The job involves a lot of sitting. Those who own a mobile grooming company must travel to their clients' homes.
Manicurists and pedicurists use chemicals when working on fingernails and toenails, so they often wear protective clothing, including protective gloves and masks.
Work Schedules
Although most manicurists and pedicurists work full time, many have variable schedules and work part time. Their schedules often are determined by the type of establishment. For example, a full-service salon may require manicurists and pedicurists to work an 8-hour day. A boutique hair salon, however, may require fewer work hours on a part-time basis. Longer work days are not unusual for self-employed workers. Weekends and evenings tend to be the busiest times for manicurists and pedicurists.