Why is it important to moisturize hands and feet during a manicure or pedicure?

Moisturizing hands and feet during a manicure or pedicure is crucial primarily to prevent skin dehydration. The skin on the hands and feet is often exposed to various elements that can strip away natural moisture, leading to dryness and cracking. Regularly applying moisturizer helps to maintain the skin's hydration levels, promoting its elasticity and overall health. This is especially important in a salon setting, where the skin may be exposed to products or treatments that can further dry it out.

While creating a smoother nail surface is beneficial, it is not the primary reason for moisturizing. Enhancing the vibrancy of nail polish is a nice effect of healthy, well-moisturized skin, but it is not the main purpose. Strengthening nails is also desirable, yet moisturizing is more about skin health rather than directly impacting the strength of the nails themselves. Thus, the emphasis on preventing skin dehydration aligns perfectly with the overall goal of providing a safe and effective manicure or pedicure experience.