Using oil-based products instead of soapy water is more effective for maintaining healthy nails. Soaking in water can cause polish to chip sooner because the nail plate is porous. It absorbs water while soaking and the nail plate expands. If you apply polish to an expanded nail, the polish won’t adhere well and is likely to chip when the nail dries out and shrinks back.
Just follow these steps:
1. Sanitize hands with a waterless sanitizer.
2. Shape the nails with a fine grit file.
3. Apply cuticle oil.
4. Massage both hands.
5. Remove dead skin from plates.
6. Clean and dehydrate the nail plate.
7. Polish.
Play around with different oils and aromatherapy to spice up this basic oil manicure. Don’t forget to explain all the benefits to your clients, and make sure you have plenty of small bottles on hand to retail. — Jessica Mahler is the owner of Painted Red Nails & Naturals Boutique in Osterville, Mass.