Everything you need to know about a Manicure

The word ‘manicure’ is derived from two Latin words: ‘manus’, meaning hand, and ‘cure’, which means care. A manicure is a cosmetic beauty treatment performed over the fingernails and hands so as to make the skin smoother and the nails stronger and improve the appearance of the hands. Both men and women can enjoy the benefits of a manicure.

The procedure of a normal home manicure includes filing and shaping of the nails, massage of the hand with moisturizing lotion, and the application of nail polish. Other manicures can be done professionally in a nail salon by a licensed professional nail technician or manicurist. If one visits a salon, the difference between their home manicure and this one would be the cuticle treatments the licensed manicurist does. In a manicure, the soaking of a softening substance and the application of a lotion is a common specialty. If the same procedure of a manicure is applied to the toenails and the feet, the treatment is referred to as a ‘pedicure’.

There are three main types of manicures: Salon manicure, French manicure, and Spa manicure. A salon manicure is an at-home manicure, performed in the same steps followed by nail salons. This type of manicure, if performed once a week, will keep your hands looking healthier and younger. A French manicure is where the tips of the nails are pure white. This type of manicure is immensely popular as it gives the nails and hands a clean and neat look, and it is suitable for all occasions. Whit nail polish is aligned with the edge of the finger. A Spa manicure involves more steps than a normal manicure. These include an aromatic salt rub, or hydrating mask or paraffin dip that can make it last longer and feel more luxurious.

Many new nail treatments have emerged such as the application of artificial nail tips, acrylics and artificial nail gels. Manicure can also include the painting of pictures or designs on the nails or applying small jewels.

Licensed manicurists or a licensed professional nail technician should be opted for as they follow regulations. Skin is manipulated and sometimes trimmed from the cuticles which may involve a risk of spreading of infections when tools are used across many people. Such manicurists will assure sanitation of utensils and will keep harm away from you.

Manicures are done by individuals not just for gaining attractive hands and cleanly groomed nails. In fact, manicures prevent hang-nail formation, and nail damages like splits, tears, and fragile tips. Manicures increases the blood flow in the hands due to the accompanying massage provided, and gives suppleness and flexibility of the hands and wrist. Manicures also eliminate early signs of wrinkle formation on the hands, hands are the first body part to show the sign of aging, but manicure can let you overcome this.

The main tools required for a manicure are: a bowl of warm water, nail clippers, cuticle knife and clippers, cuticle pusher/hoof stick, nail file/emery board, buffer, scissors, and brush. Along with this, a manicure requires the following supplies: cuticle remover, oil and cream; massage lotion; nail polish – base coat polish, color varnish, top coat or sealant; nail polish remover; hand cream; sanitizing spray or towels; cotton balls; and hand towels.

Manicure sets in various brands and sets are available at all cosmetic stores. By purchasing a set and having one at home, you can save yourself the costs and time of going to salons and manicurists. Beautiful hands reflect your way of living and beauty conscious consumers all keep their hands and feet groomed!