Russian Manicure Vs Basic Manicure

If you want a manicure that lasts, classic polish will do. But have you heard about the latest fad: Russian manicure?

This treatment features detailed cuticle exfoliation, electric file with diamond bits, and dry manicure (no water-soaking required) to achieve long-term results.

The Basics

As opposed to traditional manicures, which involve soaking and pushing back cuticles with tools, Russian nail techs use various electric tools for shaping nails and cleaning eponychium (or seal at the base of nail). These include electric files with soft ball tips, nail drills, and the cuticle skyver – an infamous tool used to push back cuticles with precision.

These tools are utilized by trained nail technicians who place great emphasis on maintaining the health of their client’s nails, and know how to use them properly in order to avoid infection. It’s vital that salons utilize only sanitized tools with an in-house hygiene protocol such as Mon Cheri Chitown’s two-step sterilization process for tools.

Apart from nail preparation, the main distinction between a Russian manicure and regular manicure lies in its use of structured gel overlay. This creates a pocket for polish that prevents it from chipping as easily and prolongs its appearance – giving an extended manicure experience.

The Differences

As its name implies, Russian manicure involves precise cuticle work. While traditional and gel manicures typically include soaking nails in water before pushing back cuticles and trimming the nail before cutting, filing, and shaping each individual nail, Russian manicures take an additional step focusing specifically on the eponychium (the area between where nail meets skin).

Kandalec says this treatment stands out due to using an electric file to open up certain areas of the nail plate for improved adhesion and longevity of polish application. He credits this unique element as being what sets him apart.

However, some dermatologists remain unconvinced of this specialized manicure technique, citing risks of repeated removal of eponychium which could result in infections. To get an in-depth view of what this treatment entails we contacted dermatologist Hadley King and cosmetic chemist David Petrillo from cosmetic chemistry as well as Kamola Malikova of Minx Nails to get their opinions. Keep reading to hear their assessment on its safety.

The Cost

Russian manicures require special skills and expensive tools that may result in higher prices than basic manicures; however, many find the investment worthwhile due to its outstanding results that last up to four weeks or longer.

One drawback of a Russian manicure is that it essentially destroys the protective barrier between your nail plate and eponychium, leaving your nails susceptible to infection. Therefore, it is paramount that any manicure technician you hire be trained in this technique as well as using sterilized equipment for this procedure.

ClassPass makes it easy to locate a skilled Russian manicure salon nearby, so be sure to ask your technician how long they have been practicing this technique and if they use an efile with carbide bits – this will ensure stronger nails that hold onto builder gel structures better and prevent chipping!

The Benefits

Russian manicures performed by experienced nail technicians can be safe and effective; however, when performed incorrectly they can damage nails and cuticles, cause infections, and lead to long-term health concerns for nails. Therefore it’s essential that you find a nail salon where technicians with years of experience have completed courses on this method of nail care.

Russian manicures differ significantly from their traditional counterparts in that instead of using electric drill bits to cut away excess cuticle, an e-file bit undergoes a rigorous three-stage disinfection process to help avoid infection and the nails are scrubbed using special soap to remove existing polish before being cleaned and pushed back over.

Russian manicures produce stunning, chip-proof manicures that last up to one month without chipping – an attractive feature among celebrities and women who seek picture-perfect nails. When selecting either Russian or traditional styles of manicure, always remember to use cuticle oil in between appointments in order to keep nails and cuticles hydrated and looking their best!