What Is a Russian Manicure?
Have you heard about the Russian manicure? Are you interested to try it? That’s a great choice! This manicuring technique has gained a lot of popularity because of its uniqueness and the level of precision it requires in preparing the natural nails. Not only that, the end result gives you a manicure that looks like it’s being photoshopped because of how clean and flawless it looks.
Today, we are going to talk about this fascinating technique, letting you learn what it really is, its benefits, costs, the controversy behind it and more. So, read on!
The Russian Manicure Explained
A Russian manicure is known as the dry or e-file manicure as the whole procedure doesn’t involve soaking in water. It requires extreme precision with cuticle work using a nail drill to get rid of excess skin surrounding the nail bed and to shape the nails.
The Russian manicure originated in Russia, has been introduced first to countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine and became popular there. The popularity of the manicure is so high that it became the standard procedure for manicures and salons no longer use the traditional procedures.
The Russian Manicure Process
Traditional manicure procedures usually involve soaking the fingers in warm water to soften the skin surrounding the nails so removing the cuticles and excess skin is easy. With the Russian manicure, it’s different – cuticles and excess skin are removed using a nail drill without the help of soaking.
When it comes to using the nail drill, a trained nail tech first cleans the nail bed using a type of drill bit. Then, they remove the cuticles with another type of drill bit. Lastly, they polish the nail bed and shape the nails based on the client’s preference.
Once the nails are clean, the nail tech then polishes them. Then, a base coat formulated for a Russian manicure is applied to the nails. Once the base coat has dried, the coloured nail polish is painted, which is applied using an artist brush. The manicure is then sealed with a top coat.
The application of the polish is similar to the other types of manicures. However, the core difference is with the use of the base coat, which is chosen based on the client’s nail strength and length. There are limited-edition base coat products available that cater to many different types of clients.
Gel polish is used for the Russian manicure and applied in a specific way to make the manicure last really long. The nail tech applies the polish deep under the nail’s cuticle, minimising the natural nail growth.
The Russian Manicure Benefits
Aside from the aesthetically pleasing result of the Russian manicure, it’s also popular for being long lasting, reducing client salon visits. The improvement of nail growth is emphasised as well given the level of precision the procedure requires.
Moreover, the manicure focuses on the nails’ health where non-toxic gel polishes and hard gel extensions are only used. Both gel polish and extension are durable and provide an elegant look.
Aside from that, the manicure gets rid of as much skin as possible to allow more room for nail polish. This is why the result offers a cleaner finish, making your nails look really perfect.
The procedure also doesn’t use acetone to get rid of any product residue, which prevents your fingers from dryness caused by the solvent. Any gel polish applied from your previous manicure is removed using the nail drill.
The Controversy Behind the Russian Manicure
Despite the great benefits of the manicure, there is a controversy associated with it. The use of a nail drill to remove excess skin or gel polish instead of soaking has a number of risks.
When the nail tech removes the cuticles, they open up the eponychium, which is a thick skin layer located at the base of the toenails and fingernails. Eponychium primarily serves as a protective layer between the epidermis and nails from bacteria. Because it is open during the manicure, it increases the risk of infection.
Also, when this manicure is performed on people with dark skin tones, hyperpigmentation may be introduced in the base area of the nails. This is in response to the “injury” the manicure has caused.
Potential Risks
Aside from the controversy behind the manicure, it’s still essential to highlight the potential risks associated with it:
- Infection – As mentioned earlier, there is a high chance of infection if the manicure is not done properly. Removing the cuticle means losing an important barrier that protects your nails from bacteria.
- Discomfort – If the drilling of the nails is too aggressive or inappropriate, it can provide discomfort or pain. Individuals with sensitive nails or skin may be greatly affected by it.
- Nail damage – When the drill is misused or operated at high speed, it can weaken or cause thinning of the nails. Your nails may start to peel, split or break.
- Skin damage – Not using the nail drill properly can scrape the cuticles, which cuts, irritates or damages the skin.
Is a Russian Manicure Safe?
The Russian manicure is considered safe when done by a highly trained, skilled and experienced nail technician. Trained professionals have the proper knowledge and skillset to perform the said technique on clients. The procedure can become dangerous if done by an untrained individual, which is why the Russian manicure is not a procedure done at home. We highly discourage a DIY on this one to prevent a serious injury.
Aside from that, sterilisation is equally important as the procedure itself because bacteria can easily enter the skin if strict hygiene is not observed. There is a specific cleaning or storage process this manicure requires to ensure infection is prevented.
How Much Is a Russian Manicure?
Considering the hard work and attention to detail it requires, a Russian manicure costs slightly more than regular acrylic or gel manicures. On average, it may cost around $95 with regular gel nail polish. But if you think about not frequently visiting a salon for nail maintenance, it’s actually less expensive.
Also, spending about 2 hours or more for this manicure and not going back to the salon for at least four weeks saves you a lot of time than visiting the salon every two weeks for maintenance.
Who Should Get a Russian Manicure?
This manicure is ideal for many types of clients with varying preferences and nail types. Here’s a list of clients who can benefit from this manicure:
- People with sensitive cuticles – If you’re concerned about damaging your cuticles during a manicure or have sensitive cuticles, the Russian manicure can deliver a painless procedure and safe experience.
- Those who want a spotless finish – Clients who pay attention to details with their manicures are perfect for this approach. This is especially true if they have the desire for clean nail shaping and a flawless result.
- Clients who have damaged or weak nails – This manicure can aid in strengthening the nails for those with weak nails. Clients can enjoy the benefits of improving their nails’ condition and having a stunning lasting manicure.
- Anyone who wants a long-lasting manicure – If you don’t have time for frequent visits to a salon or are tired of frequent touch-ups, the Russian manicure is exactly what you need. You can enjoy your beautiful and flawless nails for at least four weeks without needing a salon visit.
Where to Get a Russian Manicure
You can’t get a Russian manicure in every nail salon you’ll visit. Most likely, they don’t offer this technique because of the lack of training.
If you really want to have this manicure, you need to search online and find the nearest nail salon or trained nail tech who offers this service. The more reputable the salon or nail tech is, the better. Remember, this manicure requires the proper sterilisation of equipment and special training for nail techs, and not all salons are able to meet these requirements yet.
How to Maintain Your Russian Manicure
Aftercare is equally important as the proper application in keeping flawless nails for a long period. That’s why it’s essential to keep in mind the best practices to ensure your nails stay perfect for four weeks.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
It’s never a good idea to expose your nails to harsh chemicals, such as acetone-based nail polish removers and household cleaners. These chemicals can damage your polish and even cause skin irritation.
Moisturise Your Nails
Oils and creams are great for providing hydration to your nails and skin. Apply the product regularly to ensure your nails receive the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Wear Protective Gloves
We can’t avoid engaging in activities that may cause damage to our nails sometimes. That’s why it’s important to wear protective gloves when gardening, washing dishes and doing other household chores.
Eat Healthily
Eating nutritious foods that help strengthen your nails is also crucial in keeping beautiful nails. Foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that help your nails stay strong and shiny. You can include plant-based protein, leafy greens, berries, eggs, meat, fish and bone broth in your diet.
Wrap Up
Make sure you get a Russian manicure from a salon with highly trained nail techs. This technique requires specialised training to ensure a safe and flawless procedure. So, it’s worth a try to spend a couple of hours at a salon to enjoy saving time from frequent salon visits for touch-ups.