Are Russian Manicures Safe?

The Russian manicure has long been an unspoken beauty trend, but has recently seen exponential growth. Google search terms related to it include “Russian manicure near me” while models like Kendall Jenner have posted posts showcasing glossy nails with almost photoshop-esque polish.

This technique involves using an electric file to remove cuticle skin from nail plates without using water, leaving more room for polish. Some experts are uneasy about this approach to manicure.

What is a Russian Manicure?

Have you been scrolling Instagram or TikTok recently? Chances are, you have likely come across manicure and pedicures with such clean, crisp lines it almost appears photoshopped? This trend, known as Russian manicure, has quickly become the latest fad among nail technicians; using an electric file and various e-file bits for dry manicure process provides more polished finishes with greater efficiency than before.

An additional part of a manicure involves moisturizing both nails and skin with cuticle oil or cream for added hydration – an invaluable way to ensure healthy and strong nails!

Malikova advises always asking about their technician’s experience using this manicure method and whether hospital-grade disinfectants are used on every client to avoid unnecessary lifting and chipping of polish or enhancements. Nails properly prepped using this approach will last longer and polish or enhancement will adhere more securely, decreasing lifting and chipping risks.

Cuticle Removal

Have you seen nails that look too perfect to be real on Instagram or TikTok lately? Those ultra-smooth, flawless surfaces are likely the result of Russian manicure, an increasingly popular beauty trend worldwide.

This dry procedure utilizes an electric nail file to open and cleanse the eponychium – the thin layer of skin surrounding each nail – without using water or soaking. This meticulous prep helps prolong nail longevity and promote healthy nail growth.

Some may argue that cuticle removal increases the risk of infection by cutting into the eponychium, but Malikova has never seen an infection from her Russian manicures, and uses special cuticle softener designed not to damage healthy tissue around nails.

Nail Shaping

Precision is key when it comes to providing manicures that respect nails and their health, so any time it feels rushed, aggressive or uncomfortable this should be seen as an alarm bell.

Nail shaping involves trimming, filing and buffing nails into desired shapes using trimming tools such as files. From classic oval to the more modern coffin shape or morbid ballerina style nails – shaping nails is a wonderful way to highlight fingernails and express oneself through artfully designed fingernail styles that add dimension and dimension. However, improper nail shaping techniques may result in pain, breakage and damage to natural nails.

Unfortunately, the e-file used in a Russian manicure is an indiscriminate e-filer and fails to take into account that there exists a distinction between dead skin, nail plate and living tissue – an essential boundary that prevents yeast, fungi and bacteria from invading and potentially leading to paronychia, an inflammation-inducing condition which is extremely painful.

Polish Application

Experienced technicians should ensure a Russian manicure doesn’t feel rushed, aggressive or uncomfortable; its focus should lie in dry cuticle prep and controlled product application, respecting natural nail plates while not touching free edges or feeling unsanitary during application.

Russian manicures pose the main risk of repeated damage to your eponychium – which seals your nails against moisture and bacteria – over time, leading to weak, brittle nails that eventually wear down over time. This damage might not immediately become noticeable but over time will ultimately become evident and lead to weak, brittle nails.

TikTokers and celebrities love showing off their picture-perfect results on social media, but it’s important to remember that long-lasting polish requires healthy nails. Take our complete nail care regimen as a starting point and stay strong, resilient and ready for color! Also important: applying thin coats evenly. Learn the art of applying 4-coat manis!