The list seems endless.
Maybe you heard about it from a friend who got one and raved about how long the look lasted.
[The nail tech] said they would last for a month, she said.
Getty Images
I’m going on three weeks right now and they still look great.
This is the longest my nails have ever lasted.
(She alsoshared the processwith her millions of TikTok followers.)
Will the Russian manicure elevate your nail game for good?
We went straight to the pros, including several manicurists and a board-certified dermatologist for answers.
What is a Russian manicure?
The Russian manicure is also called a dry or waterless manicure because it requires no soaking.
It is best for individuals who appreciate meticulous nail care and prefer less frequent salon visits.
As the name suggests, the manicure originated in Russia and is also popular in Europe.
What is the process of a Russian manicure?
After stripping your nails of product (polish, gel, extensions, etc.
Youre actually exfoliating the skin off the nail plate and lifting up the eponychium, manicuristElle Gersteinsays.
Its semantics, especially for this topic.
As Gerstein explains, this technique helps reduce the grow-out gap between your cuticle and polish.
What are the pros and cons of the Russian manicure?
I highly recommend Russian manicures since they offer a polished, long-lasting look, says Hanna.
By ensuring flawless prep work, the risk of chipping and lifting of the polish is minimized.
However, some nail artists consider the Russian manicure to be more work than its worth.
Is the Russian manicure safe?
Training in the technique is super important, given that the nail tech is removing bits of your skin.
Some salons have manicurists undergo extensive training before they can offer the service.
Gerstein also warns that what you see on Instagram could be too good to be true and potentially photoshopped.
At your appointment, confirm the tools are sanitized or your nail tech is using a freshly opened set.
Get up and leave, she says.
This is not a painful manicure.
If anything, it should feel like a breath of fresh air when youre done.
As Dr. Campbell explains, Removal of the cuticle is a no-no from an overall nail health perspective.
While it looks more cosmetically pleasing, our cuticles serve a purpose.
Manicure trends come and go, especially those driven by social media, but nail safety is forever.
However, if something feels off, dont be afraid to speak up or end the service.
Your nail health is worth more than a viral TikTok video.
Read more about manicures:
Now, watch Amy Poehler and Maya Hawke react to viral internet trends:
