Russian manicures are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Some of its techniques are a great way to keep your nails healthy and looking their best, while staying within your scope as a nail technician.

A Russian manicure (sometimes known as an "e-file" manicure or a "dry" manicure) uses an electric nail file and quality diamond bits. It foregoes water entirely, as it is unnecessary to soak and soften the nails before any product application.

A dry manicure, like the Russian manicure, uses an electric file for product removal, shaping, and reducing extra cuticle around the nail plate. This technique offers a more beautiful result versus the traditional method of soaking, nipping, and polishing the nails. 

Dry manicures have become increasingly popular in recent years as they are seen as a more gentle and hygienic alternative to other conventional manicures.

There are many advantages to dry manicures and most often, once a client receives a dry manicure, they never want to go back to the traditional way!

Steps of a Russian Manicure / Dry Manicure

There can be few or several steps involved in a Russian / Dry manicure, depending on how meticulous you want to be.

  1. Remove gel polish or enhancements with an electric nail file.
  2. Shape the nails with a diamond hand file (medium grit).
  3. Use a cuticle pusher to release the cuticle from the nail plate.
  4. Exfoliate the cuticle with a flat-shaped bit, such as the Micro Taper or Sm Tapered Barrel.
  5. Clear away debris with a nylon brush and alcohol 70%+
  6. Use a flame-shaped bit (like the Russian Flame) to open the cuticle pocket and continue to clean out any dead skin cells near the proximal nail fold.
  7. Clear away debris again with nylon brush and alcohol.
  8. Apply product to the nails with gel or polish using a precise brush. Complete all steps: base, color, top coat.
  9. Drop cuticle oil on each finger and use the Polisher bit to hydrate and smooth the skin around the nail plate. 

    Advantages of This Style of Manicure

    There are many advantages of this style of manicure:

    - It reduces lifting.

    - It's chemical-free.

    - It reduces hangnails.

    - Nails will look better, longer!

    - It's customizable for everyone.

    - Try it on your hands and toes.

    - It produces a longer-lasting manicure!

    - It makes your business stand out.

    This (relatively) new beauty trend is here to stay! It's hard to resist when there are so many advantages. No wonder these dry manicure techniques are quickly becoming the new standard in nail care.

    What do you think of Russian manicures? Have you tried them before? Tell me your thoughts in the comments below!