Everything you need to know about getting a manicure, its benefits and what to expect at your first manicure session.

We use our hands every day to do a number of physical activities, but often forget to give them the TLC they need. Exposure to daily elements can take a toll on your skin, nails, and cuticles. Investing in a regular manicure by a nail professional can help in maintaining healthy skin, nails, and cuticles, and give them a clean, professional look.

What is a manicure?

A manicure is a cosmetic and therapeutic beauty treatment for your hands. A trained professional grooms your hands and nails, while you relax and enjoy some ‘me-time’. The manicure process consists of multiple steps, including cutting and filing of nails, cleaning and removal of dry skin and cuticles, treatment and massage with hydrating and nourishing products, and finishing with the application of nail paint.

What to expect in a manicure

Here is a step-by-step guide of what to expect during a manicure from a nail professional.

• • Prep and shape:

    The manicurist will start by removing any old nail paint from your nails. After this, the focus is on getting the desired shape and length of the nails. The manicurist will ask you what nail shape you desire. Square and round are the most common shapes. If you are unsure of what shape to choose, ask the manicurist to suggest the shape that would suit you best. The nails are trimmed using a nail clipper and then filed to get the desired shape. If your nails are already short, then just filing is enough.

  • Cuticle care:

    After shaping, cuticle cream or oil is applied to soften the cuticles (the skin around the base of the nail). Your hands are then soaked in warm, water soapy water to soften the skin and prepare it for the rest of the manicure procedure. After a short soak, dead cuticles are removed with the help of a sterilised cuticle pusher and trimmer. This is an important step in a manicure to help get a clean look. 

  • Exfoliation and massage:

    Once the cuticles are tended to, the focus shifts to the rest of the hands. A gentle scrub is used to exfoliate and remove dead skin on your hand. Next, a moisturising cream is applied and massaged into the hands as you relax. 

  • Finish with style:

    The final and most fun step of a manicure is the nail paint application, which is done after buffing to give your nails a consistent, shiny look. Whether you want a French finish, a plain solid colour, or some colourful nail art – there are many options to explore. You can also choose between regular nail paint or a gel nail paint, which will affect how long the colour lasts. Alternatively, you can choose to keep your nails natural with a simple buff and shine. 

Typically, a basic manicure sessions shouldn’t take more than an hour to complete.

What are the benefits of a manicure?

Even though a manicure is often considered a pampering beauty treatment, there are several benefits to getting a manicure done regularly. 

• Improved nail health:

  A professional manicure involves a deep clean of your nails, which helps remove any build-up of dirt and germs, preventing infections and improving nail hygiene. Regular manicures can also ensure better nail health and prevent chipping and breaking.

• Boosts circulation:

  Typically, a manicure involves a hand massage, which increases blood flow to the region. It helps relieve stiffness and muscle tension, improves joint mobility, and promotes skin regeneration for a better appearance.

• Smoother and softer hands:

  The gentle exfoliation done during a manicure, gets rid of dead skin, encouraging new cell growth and improving skin texture. The application of a moisturising agent reduces dryness and improves skin elasticity, giving you soft and supple hands.

• Improved mental health:

  Busy schedules leave little time for self-care, and manicures can provide the perfect opportunity to make time for yourself to relax and de-stress. The relaxing experience, pampering, and massage will help release tension and boost your mental health.

Does a manicure improve skin tone?

The combination of gentle exfoliation and massage helps with the removal of dead skin and improves circulation, giving your hands a fresh, clean look. Sometimes a mask is applied to help reduce any tanning and give your skin a glow.

How often should you get a manicure?

Looking after our nails and hands is important to maintain their health and appearance and it is recommended to get a professional manicure every two weeks or at least once a month.

Now that you are familiar with the numerous benefits of a professional manicure, why not treat yourself to a relaxing session at home? You can easily book a manicure service through Urban Company. To make it even more enjoyable, consider booking a double session for you and a friend to share the experience together.