Which of the following is NOT a step in the manicure process?

In the manicure process, the steps typically consist of preparing the nails and surrounding skin, treating the nails, and then finishing with polish. Among the listed options, removing old polish, applying a base coat, and applying a top coat are standard practices. These steps are crucial for ensuring the nails are clean, protected, and have a polished finish.

Exfoliating the skin, while beneficial for skin care, is not a standard step in the manicure process. The focus of a manicure is more on nail care and polish application rather than deep skin exfoliation, which is more commonly associated with a pedicure or a facial treatment. Therefore, identifying that exfoliating the skin is not a required step in a traditional manicure helps clarify the process involved in nail care specifically.