About Manicures

In the realm of extreme makeovers and red carpet outfits, it can be hard to remember that a quick and simple manicure can make a difference in your appearance. The fact is, manicures are more than a couple coats of nail polish. The most complete manicures are like a facial for your hands, adding moisture to your skin and subtracting years from your hands' appearance.

Types

Manicures are a big business, partially because there are many types and upgrades available. A straightforward manicure involves a cleansing and a cuticle treatment, plus your choice of a nail polish application. The popular upgrade is a French manicure, which involves white tips and an overall clear coat. You can opt for a hot oil or a paraffin manicure. Some manicurists also offer hand massages, aromatherapy treatment and spa-like soaks.

Benefits

The obvious benefit of a manicure is well-cared for hands, cuticles and nails. The subtle benefit of manicures is that they can be a relaxing escape that is more affordable than a spa visit. Some salons have massage chairs, ambient music and a pleasant atmosphere. Some regular clients consider their manicurist as another girlfriend, someone with whom they can swap gossip and news. Manicures are also a quick way to stay in style, updating your polish to the latest hues or to change with the seasons.

Features

A basic manicure begins with a soak to rejuvenate the skin. The manicurist pushes back the cuticles and files and shapes the nails. If you prefer a natural look over polish, you can choose to get your nails buffed to a shine or get clear coats applied. For the glamor look, you can choose a nail polish shade or get fake nails applied. After applying nail polish, the manicurist adds a protective top coat which can also have ultraviolet protection if your nails are going to be exposed to the sun for long periods. The protection stops color from yellowing, fading and chipping. Somewhere in there, the manicurist gives a moisturizing treatment.

Warning

In rare cases, a manicure is a risky proposition. Ensure that the salon properly sterilizes all equipment, especially the cuticle scissors. If you see blood on the manicure tools, walk away. In addition, some press-on nail treatments can result in fungal infections if they are not properly sanitized. Check that the manicurist is licensed by the state. License requirements demand that the practitioner is aware of and maintains health requirements.

Prevention/Solution

If you find the cost or time commitment of manicures prohibitive, consider doing your own. Assemble the necessary tools: an orange wood stick, a soft brush, cuticle clippers, an emery board, nail clippers, polish and top coat. You can also use cuticle oil and moisturizing lotion. Use the nail clippers to trim your nails and the emery board (lightly) to shape them. Rub cuticle oil on your nails and soak for 15 minutes. Scrub the nails with a soft brush and clean underneath the nails with the orange wood stick. Rub moisturizer into your hands. You can keep your nails natural, or add polish and top coat. You can apply a new layer of clear top coat every couple of days to reduce the chance of breaking or chipping.