THE HIDDEN KEY TO A PERFECT MANICURE Even before the shine, the art and the bling, the foundation of a good manicure is healthy nails. The quality of the manicure is not measured by just the art, but also by the nails themselves. Healthy, prepped, and clean nails provide a consistent surface for the polish to adhere to, prevents nail damage, and yields happier clients.
Not only does a good nail application mean the nail will last longer, it also prevents clients from getting an infection or irritation, it also helps the nail technician to gain the trust of their client. This is one of the most essential parts of being a nail technician, just as important as nail art!
Nail Structure 101 Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of nail care, it helps to know exactly what we’re working with. Your nail is made up of several distinct layers, starting with the nail plate—the hard part that you see. Below this lies the nail bed, which is the skin underneath. The cuticle is the thin piece of skin at the base of your nail, and the nail root (or matrix) is the area beneath the cuticle where new nail growth begins.
To know how to properly care for your nails, you first have to know what they are. The nail is composed of layers of keratin. It is just as important to focus on the nail plate as it is the skin around the nail.
Nail Plate: This is the nail you see, the part you polish or paint designs on. It should be smooth, without ridges and strong.
Cuticle: This is the protective layer at the base of the nail that covers the nail matrix area. Keep this area in good shape, and it will protect your nail.
Nail Bed: The skin underneath your nail where your nail grows. Injuries to this part of your nail can influence the overall health and look of your nail.
Lunula: This is the half moon shape that you see at the base of the nail and is a sign of the nail’s growth.
Knowing what each component is allows the technicians to troubleshoot issues and perform maintenance routines in a safe way.
Cleaning and Sanitizing the Nails for a Manicure
This will prevent the risk of infection and will help the polish adhere to the nail. Begin by giving your hands a good wash and ensure all nails are free of old polish. Sanitize your tools and ask your client to sanitize her hands.
Grooming and Pruning
File and shape the nail to the length and shape of the client’s choice. Shaping the nail helps the nail polish go on smoothly and gives the nail a finished look. The most popular nail shapes are: Oval, Square and Almond.
Nail Care.
You should push or cut your cuticles only after you’ve softened them with a remover or a soak. You don’t want to overcut the cuticles because it can be painful, or lead to infections and even damage to the nail matrix.
Polishing and Finishing
A light buffing of the nail plate surface will remove ridges and allow the polish to adhere better. Do not buff excessively as it will cause ridging and thin the nail plate and weakening of the nail.
How to Care for Your Nails in-Between Visits Hydrate
By moisturizing your nail and the skin around it, you can prevent breakage and dryness. Using cuticle oils and hand lotions daily can help strengthen and add luster to your nails.
Safety Measures
Advise your clients to wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning, to avoid picking things with their nails, and to keep their hands out of water or chemicals for too long. This helps prevent splitting, softening, and chipping.
Nutrition
Healthy nails come from the inside out. Proteins, biotin and a balanced diet of vitamins will make nails stronger and longer. This is something technicians can share with clients.
Nail Issues and How to Fix Them
Brittle Nails: A sign of dehydrated nails, usually from overuse of nail products. Use oils, creams, and file gently.
Peeling or Splitting: Do not over buff. Suggest fortifying services.
Cuticles: Avoid cutting the cuticles and apply some oils to help them heal naturally.
FUNGAL INFECTIONS: Properly disinfect implements and encourage clients to consult with a physician as necessary.
Acknowledging this can help us to stay safe and professional.
Nail Care Tools & Products Basics
Nail clippers and nail scissors for nail care
Nail files and buffers for shaping
Cuticle pushers and nippers for detail work on the cuticles.
Nail brush, sanitiser etc for hygiene
See These Products We Recommend
Oils and creams for cuticle hydration
Base coats and nail strengtheners
Mild soap and hand sanitiser to keep your hands clean
Tools and products should be chosen and cared for correctly to provide a safe, efficient and quality nail service.
Hygiene & Sanitation
Instruments Sterilization
This includes cleaning and sanitizing all multi-use tools between clients using sanitizing solutions or sterilizers. Keep implements separate to avoid the risk of infection.
PPE (Personal Protection Equipment)
Wear gloves if needed, make sure to wash your clients’ hands before the manicure. Keep your workspace clean to prevent this.
Educating the Client
Inform your client on how to care for their nails between fills. Explain the right way to remove old polish, use a moisturizer, and avoid using nails as tools. A well-educated client will have better nails and value your expertise.