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\u201cThe Russian manicure is a technique known for its detailed cuticle work and precise polish application,\u201d says manicurist Mazz Hanna, who explains that the process involves a heavy focus on perfect cuticle work. \u201cIt is best for individuals who appreciate meticulous nail care and prefer less frequent salon visits.\u201d<\/p>\n
As the name suggests, the manicure originated in Russia and is also popular in Europe.<\/p>\n
After stripping your nails of product (polish, gel, extensions, etc.), your tech will groom the cuticle with an electric file, a variety of small drill bits, and a tiny nail scissors. If you\u2019ve had a dip manicure or acrylics, you\u2019re probably pretty familiar with the use of the e-file during the removal process, but the Russian manicure takes it several steps further.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019re actually exfoliating the skin off the nail plate and lifting up the eponychium,\u201d manicurist Elle Gerstein says. \u201cThe cuticle is the eponychium, based on Bolognia,<\/em> our trusted dermatology textbook, but some people consider them to be different,\u201d says Caren Campbell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco. \u201cIt\u2019s semantics, especially for this topic.\u201d<\/p>\n As Gerstein explains, this technique helps reduce the grow-out gap between your cuticle and polish. \u201cIt starts underneath so that you literally can get two more weeks of wear out of it [for the most part] because it’s pushed under the cuticle.\u201d<\/p>\n Because the nail tech is so thoroughly cleaning and filing the nail and<\/em> skin, it allows for a much tighter, more precise paint job. \u201cThe cleaner your cuticle area is, the closer your artist can apply the polish to your cuticle area, which leads to a slower grow-out and a cleaner, more polished look for an extended period of time,\u201d says Hanna. While you can use any type of polish for a Russian manicure, Hanna says that gel is the popular option.<\/p>\n The rest of the manicure follows the typical process of base coat (though many Russian manicures use a specific base coat), color, and topcoat. Given the grooming is so detailed and painstaking, the entire process can take up to several hours to complete.<\/p>\n People who have tried the technique typically tout how long they can go between manicures\u2014up to a month\u2014and the clean, simple look it provides. \u201cI highly recommend Russian manicures since they offer a polished, long-lasting look,\u201d says Hanna. \u201cBy ensuring flawless prep work, the risk of chipping and lifting of the polish is minimized.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\nWhat are the pros and cons of the Russian manicure?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n