Getting a Manicure

If you want a quick nail polish change, you could run down to the local drugstore, buy an inexpensive nail polish, and do it yourself. But if you want your nails to look dazzling, with color that won't chip or fade for a long time, then make an appointment at your day spa salon for a professional manicure. Even if you opt for no nail polish, there's something to be said for allowing yourself to be pampered and a letting a professional give you a manicure.

A cosmetic beauty treatment, professional manicures can be performed on nails, on hands, or both. A thorough nail manicure will last at least 40 minutes, and you can expect the following from a professional:

• She will make sure that you see and know that her tools have been cleaned before she uses them in your session.
• Her table will be clean.
• She will inspect your hands and nails, pointing out and discussing any problems with you.
• She will ask questions about your hands and nails, and address your concerns.
• She will either cut your cuticles or push them back, asking your preference. If you ask the advantages and disadvantages to each method, she will be able to confidently explain both options and suggest her recommendations.
• If you have nail ridges, she will remove them by buffing and then fill them in with a good nail base coat.
• She will remove any cuticle oil before polishing, but never use acetone-based removers, since they will completely dry out the nails. She will simply use soap and water, towel dry, and then apply polish. In that way, the polish will last 10 times longer.
• She will file your nails in only one direction.
• If you want polish, she will apply four thin coats: base coat, two coats of polish, and a top coat. Drying time for each coat will be at least 10 minutes.
• Although there are quick-dry polishes, your professional manicurist will tell you that you should avoid touching your nails for at least an hour after polishing.

Although a professional manicurist will apply acrylic or nail wraps at your request, a good manicurist will advise against it. Gluing fake nails on top of real nails will make the real nails unhealthy. Acrylic and nail wraps allow for air, water, and bacteria to fester until fungus develops.

A true professional manicurist will make sure that you know to remove your polish within 10 days, allowing your fingernails to breathe for 2 days before applying new polish. Use these tips in wisely choosing a manicurist at a reputable salon, and enjoy your new nails!