nails being painted at the salon over a rolled up towel

Russian Manicure vs. Regular Manicure

Although both Russian and traditional manicure services are intended to clean up, shape, and design the nail, their techniques are quite different. The process of each manicure and the level of detail needed for the process is not equal. With traditional manicures, the nail is soaked, and then the cuticle is pushed back and gently trimmed. The nails are then cut, shaped, filed, and polished with the requested type of nail polish. There is very minimal cuticle work and cleaning close to the nail bed. With a Russian manicure, the process goes more in-depth for cleaning and shaping up. A Russian manicure is all about achieving a deep, clean, and fresh look on each finger. Learn more about how a Russian manicure works and how it compares to a traditional manicure service. 

How A Russian Manicure Works

Russian manicures are trendy right now, but they also provide amazing benefits for your nail health and appearance. Russian manicures clean your nails and cuticles 50% better than a traditional manicure. They use an electric file with a soft ball tip to file your cuticles safely and pain-free. By removing any dead skin and imperfections from the nail and cuticle, a Russian manicure works to leave clients with a clean look and feel. Not only does it last longer (Russian manicures can last up to 3 weeks, while traditional manicures can last up to a week before chipping), but this treatment prevents hangnails and cracking of the cuticle. 

A Russian manicure can only be performed by a nail technician with the tools and experience; not every nail salon offers this type of service. Unlike regular manicures, these cannot be performed at home or DIY like regular ones.

The Steps of A Russian Manicure:

Step 1: Prep the nails by removing any existing polish and cleaning under the nails as needed.

Step 2: File the cuticle area with an electric file using a soft ball tip and remove the cuticles for a soft, clean look. The electric file will only be used to gently prepare and buff the cuticle area, not the nail itself.

Step 3: File the nails themselves using a gentle filing technique with a regular nail file to shape them as desired.

Step 4: Paint nails with their desired look and color.

Step 5: Hydrate the nails and cuticles. This last step is essential for hydrating around the cuticle and nail bed that was just trimmed and cleaned. This maintains nail health and helps extend the life of your Russian manicure. 

The Steps of A Regular Manicure:

Step 1: Soak nails and remove any existing polish. Be sure to clean under the nails as needed.

Step 2: Push back the cuticle, trim as needed, and cut, file, and shape each nail.

Step 3: Paint the nails with their desired color and look.

Which Manicure Is Right For Me?

When it comes down to choosing which manicure treatment is right for you, consider your nail health and long-term goals. If you are looking for a quick, easy nail service that you may want to switch up your colors more frequently, a traditional nail service may be right for you. This is a simple yet effective service for adding color and shaping to your nails.

A Russian manicure may be right for those looking for a more thorough treatment that will give them the “clean girl” look and feel. This service lasts a little longer in the salon, but the results also have a longer-lasting effect. Perfect for focusing on your nail health and cuticles, a Russian manicure gives your nails some extra attention by cleaning out your cuticles and focusing on hydration and long-lasting appearance! If you are interested in Russian manicures and whether or not you should schedule an appointment, our team at Ohm Lifestyle Center can help. 

Professional Nail Services & Russian Manicures With Ohm Lifestyle Center

At Ohm Lifestyle Center in Wolfeboro, NH, we offer a variety of manicure and pedicure services. From regular manicures, gel builder and extensions, and Russian manicures, our team will ensure your nails are shaped, cleaned, and colored to your personality! We also offer signature pedicures and gel pedicures so you can relax and unwind as your feet get some much-needed rest and TLC. For clients who are looking to clean, shape, and style their nails but are unsure which treatment may be right for them, our team can help. Learn more about our nail services and how to request your appointment with us

Purchase an Ohm Gift Card & Receive a $20 Spa Certificate for every $100 spent