A UK beauty professional, Monica Steeley, a nail technician, has shared the surprising insights she gains about her clients simply by observing their hands and nails. She explained that during nail appointments, various subtle cues allow her to deduce aspects of a client's lifestyle and habits.

Steeley revealed that one of the first things nail technicians can identify is if a client smokes or uses drugs. She elaborated that when debulking nail product, the resulting dust carries a distinct smell, immediately indicating smoking or sniffing habits. Beyond this, a nail technician can accurately gauge a client's personal hygiene routines, including how frequently they wash their hands and if they shower daily. According to Steeley, a client with excellent personal hygiene will present with no debris under their nails and will only emit the scent of their perfume in the nail space. Conversely, those who do not maintain regular handwashing or showering habits may bring various odors and residues—such as remnants of dinner, makeup, crisps, or traces from a dog walk—under their nails to their appointments.

The revelations extend even further, as Monica noted that nails can also hint at a client's partner's personal hygiene, although she offered no further elaboration, simply stating,