Russian manicure: what it is, what it isn't, and who it suits

The Russian manicure gets a lot of online attention — some of it accurate, a lot of it not. Here is a straightforward explanation of the technique from the team at LacquerLove in Toulouse.

What makes it different

The Russian manicure, sometimes called the dry manicure, uses an electric nail file to remove the cuticle and clean the nail plate area rather than soaking the hand in water first. The result is a very clean finish around the nail — no lifted skin, no loose cuticle visible.

Because the nail plate is cleaned more thoroughly before the gel is applied, the polish tends to adhere better and stay chip-free for longer. Most clients notice a noticeable difference in how long the finish lasts compared to a classic gel manicure.

What it is not

It is not a medical treatment. The cuticle work involved is cosmetic — the same way any professional manicure involves cuticle care, just done with more precision and different tools. We do not make any health or dermatological claims about this service.

It is also not always appropriate for everyone. If your cuticles are very sensitive, inflamed, or broken, we would discuss this with you before starting. The technique requires care and a competent technician — at LacquerLove, Russian manicure appointments are handled by Manon Leroy, our Russian Manicure Specialist.

Who tends to benefit

People with fast-growing cuticles who find that classic gel starts lifting quickly. People who want a particularly clean, neat finish around the nail. People who have had Russian manicures before and know the result they are looking for.

It is not necessarily the first service we would recommend for someone who has never had a professional manicure before — a classic or gel manicure is a good starting point.

How to book

Russian manicure appointments at LacquerLove are priced on request — contact us before booking to discuss duration and pricing. The service requires slightly more time than a classic manicure.