Another day, another exciting find on #nailtok. This time, it’s all about the “Russian manicure”!

It’s one of the best-kept nail secrets in the beauty community, but it’s recently become popular because of social media sharing, with a whopping one billion views under the hashtag #RussianManicures.

@romykayy

the best russian manicure experience I have ever had 🤭🤯🫶🏼 my nails are literally perfect #nails #nail #nailsart #nailsartvideos #nailsalon #nailsvideotutorial #nails💅 #nailsoftiktok #nailsart #nailscheck #nailtutorial #fyp #foryou #russianmanicure #fy #aesthetic @ohlalanaillounge

♬ Niagara Falls – beabadoobeelover6969

But here’s the catch — it’s caused a stir in the beauty community. Some love it, some hate it. Curious to know why? Keep reading for the lowdown.

What’s A “Russian Manicure”?

@boujofficial

The rundown on russian manicures. I have been getting russian manis for 4 years now. So much work and detail goes into these. They cost an arm and a leg and I am in the salon for a solid 3 hours but idc cause the end result is so worth it. If you try it out lmk what you think! #beauty #trends #russianmanicure #efilemanicure #nail #nailart #chromenails #pinkchromenails

♬ Four Seasons “Winter” 3rd Movement / Vivaldi(1214147) – Issaku Matsumoto

The Russian manicure, often dubbed a ‘dry manicure,’ is a nail care technique that places a strong emphasis on cuticle maintenance.

It takes approximately two hours to complete, and it demands a significant time commitment, but many consider it a worthwhile investment due to its impressive results.

Using an electric filer, the technician reveals and removes the eponychium, a thickened skin layer at the base of nails. This process slows down cuticle growth, pushes back and removes cuticles, making gel application near the cuticle easier.

Why Is The “Russian Manicure” So Controversial?

Any manicure involving cuticle work sparks debate, and the “Russian manicure” is no exception. It’s believed to make it easier for bacteria to cause infections, but this risk is only significant with unsterilised tools.

@skingapore

Replying to @◾️ My hobbies include Cuticle Care and the E! network #LearnOnTikTok #eureka #medtok #dermtok #dontberash✋ #newfearunlocked🔓 #newfearunlocked #skingapore #gpsamuel #doctorsamuel #drsamuelgp #drsamuel #tiktoksg #doctorsoftiktok #singaporedoctor #cuticle #cuticlecare #cuttingcuticle #nail #nailinfection #manicure #paronychia #stacie Video Credits: @Lana @Twinkled T #pitchperfect #tiktoksg #tiktokusa Should I do my cuticles / how to care for my cuticles ? #nailcare #nailcaretips

♬ Horror train, horror piano, environmental sounds(1230537) – syummacha

Dr. Samuel (@sksingapore), a General Practitioner, shared a real-life incident highlighting the potential for nail infections resulting from cuticle manipulation. While most cases are treatable with antibiotics, severe instances may necessitate surgery.

Is The “Russian Manicure” Risky?

Like any trend, do your research before trying it. The “Russian Manicure” becomes risky when done by unskilled individuals or with tools that aren’t properly sterilised.

How Long Does The “Russian Manicure” Last?

@_gabbyhuffman

Clean girl aestheitc nail inspo ✨🤍 #nailinspo2023 #classicnailinspo #shortnailinspo #classynailsinspo #russianmanicure #efilemanicure nails by @aiko_nails #atxnails

♬ original sound – Gabby Huffman

What’s appealing about this trend is that the stunning nails can last up to three to four weeks, depending on how fast your nails grow. So, it’s perfect for those who don’t want to change their nails often!