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The world of nails is constantly evolving. Every week, tons of new trends appear on Instagram (aura nails, fruity manicures, the list is endless) and there's plenty of celebrity inspiration to fill a month's worth of appointments. This year has also brought new styles and manicure techniques to light. So far, we've been introduced to the BIAB, Bio Sculpt, and gel plus dip powder methods. The latest craze on TikTok is the Japanese manicure. Health trends on TikTok can be hit and miss, but the Japanese manicure is grabbing attention for all the right reasons. Unlike other manicures that focus on long-lasting color and a glossy finish, this service is all about maintaining healthy nails. The craze for the Japanese manicure is growing fast, so we spoke to the experts to find out more.
Selected experts
What is a Japanese manicure?
When you go to the nail salon, the health of your nails isn't always the top priority. Each appointment includes general grooming services like cuticle care and nail trimming, but the Japanese manicure goes a little further. “A Japanese manicure is a nail care treatment that focuses on the health and strength of your nails rather than just applying polish,” says Jin Soon Choi, manicurist and founder of JINsoon. Think of it as a deep cleanse and conditioning treatment, just for your nails instead of your hair.
According to nail technician and Sally Hansen Global Partner Sigourney Nuñez, the goal is to infuse the natural nail with nourishing ingredients to improve dryness, brittleness and overall nail health. “It's based on natural nail health, where the nail technician applies a paste and powder to the natural nail and gives it a pearly shine,” she says.
What is the difference to a traditional manicure?
Nuñez explains that the main difference is in the procedure and the products used. “This service doesn't use nail polish or nail color, but rather a solution that acts like an alternative to a nail hardener,” she says. This manicure is less about mimicking the latest trend and more about making sure your nails are strong enough to withstand it. “It's like combining a relaxing spa treatment with classic nail polishing for a deeply restorative treatment,” says .
What are the benefits and how long do they last?
It's not hard to see how a Japanese manicure can benefit your nails in the long run. Still, it can be hard to give up changing your nail polish weekly. The good news is that you can reap the benefits of a Japanese manicure with just one treatment. “The natural ingredients improve the health of your nails, while the polishing process focuses on repairing weak and brittle nails and providing them with nutrients that can strengthen them,” says Nuñez.
Choi adds that your nails will also get a healthy, natural shine. As for longevity, she notes that the natural shine won't last as long since there's no polish. However, the overall health benefits will last for a few weeks.
How much does a Japanese manicure cost?
When it comes to salon services, location always plays a role in the cost, and that's true for Japanese manicures too. “In addition to the city you're in, the reputation of the salon and the experience of the nail technician also play a role in the cost of your service,” says Nuñez. However, experts say a typical Japanese manicure usually varies in price, starting at $30 and going up to $70.
The great thing about manicures is that you can always do them yourself. If you decide to try the Japanese manicure at home, you will find the best products for it in the list below.
Products for Japanese manicure
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