Manicure Process

Learn How Nail Techs Perform a Manicure

In most beauty salons and spas the process of getting a manicure stays the same. Depending on what type of manicure is chosen depends on the process that will be followed.

The first step when administering a manicure is to remove any traces of previous nail polish. This is done by polish remover and a cotton ball or other substance that is able to hold the liquid and stays durable enough to not fall apart on the nail. In most nail polish removers the organic compound, Acetone is used. Acetone is extremely flammable and the polish remover should be kept in a place where there is a low chance of a spark or fire. If the nail polish is stubborn and won't come off the nail, don't worry, nail polish remover can be reapplied as much as needed until the old polish has disappeared.
Once your nails are polish free a nail file is used to shorten, shape, and smooth the rough edges of the nail. Nail files come in all different colors, types of material, and different levels of strength. An emery board is a nail file that is less abrasive than others which takes the nail longer to file and shape but is very good for slight touch ups or fixes. Emery boards are also disposable after use unlike metal nail files; metal nail files can come as very abrasive and are great for intense filing and shaping. Glass files are also available but a little harder to find in stores; they are good for shaping and fixing the edges of nails due to the fact they don't chip or splinter the nail.
After the nails are filed and shaped cuticle softener can be applied directly to the cuticles to temper the rough skin. Cuticle Softener can sting a little on cuticles that are damaged but can be very effective to help repair and rejuvenate the skin. Soft cuticles help the process of cuticle clipping and maintenance. Cuticle clipping is done by small scissors.