The Basics of Manicures

What drives people to get manicures? Firstly, altering your nails can significantly boost your self-esteem. For example, some career-oriented women, even after losing their jobs, refused to give up their weekly manicures, claiming it helped them maintain a professional appearance [source: Saint Louis]. Secondly, the experience is incredibly soothing, from the hand massage to the meticulous care given to each nail. Lastly, it’s hard to refuse a bride who insists on manicures for her entire bridal party.

No matter the motivation behind the beauty session, a manicure offers a chance to dedicate time to yourself. Whether you spend it discussing recent events with a friend or catching up with your manicurist, the choice is yours. After all, you’re in close contact with the manicurist, and if you’ve built a rapport, it’s a great opportunity to update each other on life since your last visit.

Even without a close relationship with your nail technician, a manicure offers benefits beyond aesthetics. For example, individuals who bite their nails might stop the habit when their nails are flawlessly polished with shades like Moon Over Mumbai.

While some question the value of spending an hour at a salon on nail care, the temporary nature of manicures ensures repeat visits. If you frequently use your hands for tasks like washing or dishwashing without gloves, your manicure may chip within three days. However, for most, it lasts about a week, potentially extending to two weeks with regular application of a clear top coat.

Even if salon visits aren't your thing, you might wonder about the appeal for those who regularly indulge in this pampering. Continue reading to uncover the allure of manicures and the art of maintaining impeccable hands.

Fake Nails or Real Nails? Pink Parka, Canyon Coral or Power Lunch?

Your salon experience begins with decisions, starting with the salon itself. Seek recommendations from friends or consult your local health department’s website for a list of licensed and inspected salons.

The next choice is between natural and artificial nails. If your natural nails don’t meet your expectations, opt for artificial ones. Options include plastic tips glued to your nail ends, full artificial nails covering the entire nail, sculptured nails crafted from acrylic, or silk nails using sheer fabric overlays [source: Draelos].

Artificial nails can be finished with gel for a glossy look or acrylic for a thicker, more durable coating. Though more expensive (ranging from $20 to over $100), they offer a larger surface for intricate designs, like a beach scene. Plus, they’re a practical solution for nail biters, as acrylic nails are tough to chew through.

If you prefer natural nails with regular polish, request a natural nails service. Assuming this is your choice, we’ll guide you through the process step by step.

The manicurist will first guide you through a vast array of nail polish colors, ranging from glitters to neons, solids to sheers. Choosing the perfect shade can be the most time-consuming part for those who struggle with decisions. Rest assured, salons typically avoid cheap polishes to prevent complaints about chipping.

Once the polish is selected, you and the manicurist will move to the workstation. Here, you’ll decide on your nail shape—long or short, squared or rounded. While rounded nails are trendy, filing the corners can help prevent hangnails and ingrown nails [source: Draelos]. The manicurist will then shape your nails using an emery board.

A warm, soapy water bowl is brought out for you to soak your hands. This step softens the skin, cleanses bacteria, and prevents infections during cuticle work. After soaking, a built-in fan at the table dries your nails.

Continue reading to ensure your cuticles stay healthy and happy.

Buffing, Massaging and Polishing, at Last

Now we move to the part that can be intimidating for both newcomers and regulars—cuticle care. The manicurist will gently push back your cuticles and, unless you opt out, trim any hangnails using specialized scissors.

Why do manicurists handle cuticles? Some argue that cuticles can grow excessively. Additionally, painting over the cuticle layer can lead to quicker chipping of the polish.

Following this, buffing is performed to smooth out nail ridges and ensure the polish adheres properly.

Next comes the ultimate relaxation—the hand massage. Each salon adds its unique touch, such as wrapping your hands in a warm, steamy towel. The manicurist then applies lotion and massages your hands and arms up to the elbows.

The final steps ensure your nails are ready for polish. The manicurist cleans your nails with alcohol to remove any lotion or old polish residue. For oily nails, an oil remover is used to help the polish adhere better. Then, the color application begins.

A clear base coat is applied first to prevent staining from the colored polish. After each coat, your nails are dried using a fan or UV lamp. Fans are often preferred due to potential health risks associated with prolonged UV exposure.

The colored polish is applied next. The manicurist will paint one nail and ask, "Do you like this shade?" Be honest, as it’s easier to change the color now rather than after applying two coats to all nails.

Your nail art doesn’t have to stop at color. Options like rhinestones, charms, glitter, fake pearls, decals, and dried flowers can add flair. For a personalized touch, initials or intricate designs can be airbrushed or painted freehand.

A clear top coat seals your manicure, extending its durability. Avoid touching anything at this stage, as even a slight bump can damage the fresh polish. Your manicurist will assist you in moving to a drying station, where fans or a UV lamp will set the polish. After 5-10 minutes, a quick-drying solution is applied, and your nails are ready for use.

Don’t rush to leave just yet—it’s time to pay. Manicures typically start at $15, but prices vary based on the salon’s location, luxury level, and whether you opt for a combined manicure-pedicure. Tipping is expected, with 15% being the minimum and up to 50% being common [source: Manicurist]. Many salons prefer cash tips.

Salon Manicure Safety

You visited the salon for beautiful nails, not for infections like warts or fungus. With proper care, the only adornments on your fingers will be the decorative elements you chose.

Start by verifying the salon’s licenses, which indicate compliance with health and safety regulations. In the U.S., salons must be approved by the state health department, ensuring tools are sterilized and single-use items are disposed of properly. Nail technicians must also be certified, having completed coursework and 600 hours of supervised practice.

While licenses ensure the salon meets cleanliness standards, they don’t guarantee flawless service every time. Common infections from salons include warts (caused by HPV) and nail fungus, often spread through improperly sterilized tools. These infections can enter through cuts or breaks in the skin, which may occur during cuticle trimming or buffing.

To reduce infection risks, avoid cuticle pushing or clipping. Dr. Kent Aftergut, a dermatologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, advises against damaging cuticles, as they act as a barrier against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Leaving cuticles intact is medically recommended.

For added safety, bring your own manicure tools, which can be purchased for around $60. Most salons are accommodating and will store your equipment for future visits, eliminating reliance on their sterilization practices.

If you suspect an infection, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Home Manicures

You can easily give yourself a manicure at home with the right tools and some time. Essential items include an emery board and nail clippers for shaping, cotton balls and polish remover for cleaning, and a nail buffer for smoothing if desired.

Cuticle care is optional, especially if you follow dermatologists’ advice to leave them untouched. If you prefer trimming, use a cuticle softener or substitute with hand lotion. You’ll also need a wooden cuticle stick and scissors. Complete the process with a base coat, colored polish, and a top coat.

To prevent infections, clean your tools thoroughly and dispose of single-use items after each session. Avoid sharing supplies with others to maintain hygiene.

The cost for these tools can range from under $30 for generic brands to over $150 for professional-grade products.