The Japanese Manicure Is The Natural Way To Stronger, Healthier Nails
Usage Guide
Overview
There’s always something keeping us entertained in the nail world. So far this year, we’ve spotted innovations like Hard BIAB, a type of reinforced builder gel that adds serious strength and structure to your nails, not to mention an abundance of nail trends, like the “phantom” French manicure and chrome croc nails. Most of these techniques are all geared towards nail aesthetics, lending themselves to cool custom designs or colors. Rarely are they a targeted remedy for dry, brittle and weak nails. Until recently, that is. Say hello to the Japanese manicure.
What is the Japanese manicure?
We first reported on the Japanese manicure in 2024, but it has a long history. It’s a ritualistic experience first and foremost, says nail expert Gabriella Ferenczi from Figaro London. Often referred to as ‘P.Shine’ after the company that brought the ritual to the masses, the method is thought to date back around 400 years in Japan.
The Japanese manicure has one main aim: to improve the health of your nails and give them a beautiful pearlescent finish, like these nails posted to Instagram by @sweettreatvienna. “In essence, it’s about massaging nutrients deep into your nail plate to make your nails super healthy so that they shine on their own without the need for a drop of polish,” explains Ferenczi. The method doesn’t promise any additional nail length or out-there nail art. Instead, it can transform neglected, weak nails, especially those that have been subjected to gels or acrylics.
We’re talking strictly kind-to-the-nail tools, no harsh solvents and absolutely zero nail polish. You might be thinking, so what’s the point? It’s all in the name of nail health. Given that many of us go against every nail technician’s wish of using cuticle oil every day, it’s just the ticket for breathing life into dry, damaged nail beds and turning them into pearly new canvases. Take inspiration from these nails posted to Instagram by @ma.mi.nails.
@nails.and.brows Japanese manicure to strengthen your nails and give it extra shine ✨💫 #kuwait🇰🇼 #japanesemanicure #nailsandbrow #nailskuwait #fypシ゚ #الكويت ♬ we cant be friends – 🫧
In line with the manicure’s age-old roots, no metal tools or solvents are used throughout the process. “Only ceramic nail files and traditional polishing units and natural oils are used,” says Ferenczi. As this is a very old practice, some salons enlist deer or calfskin files and cloths. However, nowadays, many salons opt for cruelty-free tools, and if you’re doing this at home, you can just use a simple nail buffer.
London-based session manicurist Ami Streets says: “It really brings the manicure routine back to basics. You’re incorporating the application of oils, pushing back (but not cutting) the cuticles and providing a hand massage.” Not only does the Japanese manicure impart a beautifully groomed aesthetic, but it also gives nails a break from the use of electric tools (potentially damaging if used incorrectly) or nail polish formulas (which can often stain), adds Streets. “It’s great for rest periods between gel polish or extensions, as you can get nails and hands back into optimum condition.”
What happens during the Japanese manicure?
The first step in a traditional Japanese manicure is cleansing and shaping your nails with a nail file, and pushing the cuticles back. A gentle cuticle remover may also be used here, whether a lotion or a snipping tool.
Next, the nail plate is smoothed using a buffer and a stiff brush. Thirdly, a green paste is applied onto the nail plate. It’s typically made from a mix of vitamins A and E, bee pollen, keratin (a protein found naturally in nails) and silica (a mineral from the Sea of Japan), explains Ferenczi. “It has a characteristic green color and also contains different oils such as jojoba, bamboo, ylang-ylang and red tea.” This is then gently buffed in using a chamois (a natural leather) tool.
@alextt_99 #japanesemanicure #pshine #nailsnailsnails #naturalnails ♬ original sound – Alex
Details
Once all the nails have been buffed with the paste, the manicurist gently buffs a mineral powder into each nail plate, again with the chamois. The powder (often known as P.Shine powder) is made from diatomaceous earth (a naturally occurring, soft sedimentary rock that can be crumbled into a fine powder) as well as beeswax, explains Ferenczi. “It’s used to seal in the nutrients from the paste and to give the nails a slight pink sheen that lasts for about two weeks.”
When combined, the paste and powder trap in moisture and nutrients to lend the most incredible gleam. It’s hard to believe the result isn’t actually caused by a high-shine top coat. The final step is a good hand massage using thick creams and cuticle oils.
Can the Japanese manicure help weak nails?
That’s exactly what it can do. “The Japanese manicure is essentially a strengthening treatment for brittleness,” says Ferenczi. The ingredients in both the powder and paste are great for reinforcing weak nails. “Beeswax in particular is an excellent emollient, which means it retains moisture,” says Streets, while the addition of keratin can help to rebuild the nail structure.
The hand massage is also important. “Using nourishing products will result in smooth, hydrated and healthy skin, as well as strong, flexible nails that withstand wear and tear and can grow,” says Streets. When it comes to moisturizing your hands, Streets adds, consistency is key.
@lemaribeauty Japanese manicure, from dull nails to shiny, without using nail varnish 👌🏼#españa #españa #tenerife #manicura #beauty ♬ Do It To It – ACRAZE
Streets predicts that treatments like the Japanese manicure are only going to grow in popularity, and Ferenczi agrees. “We definitely see a demand for health-conscious manicures where the focus is on natural ingredients,” she says. “The Japanese manicure is a good choice for someone who wants to take a break from extensions and gel polish, especially.”
How much is the Japanese manicure and how long does it last?
The best thing about the Japanese manicure is that it’s speedy. Usually the method only takes around 30 minutes. To find a salon that offers the Japanese manicure near you, head to the salon app, Booksy. Prices will vary from salon to salon, but as the treatment is short and doesn’t include any polish application, you can expect it to cost less than your usual manicure. Similar to gel polish, the naturally glossy effect of the Japanese manicure lasts up to two weeks.
If you fancy giving this manicure a go at home, you can buy the P.Shine kit from Amazon, but it might set you back a little more than a regular buffer, which you can get from somewhere like Ulta. Try the Revlon Shape ‘N’ Buff File & Buffer, which has file, buff, and shine edges. When it comes to sealing in moisture, R29 rates Sally Hansen Cuticle Massage Cream, with beeswax, similar to the paste used in a professional Japanese manicure. Lastly, a great hand cream is a must. Try L’Occitane Nourishing and Protective Shea Butter Hand Cream with moisturizing glycerin, shea butter, and a handful of oils.
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Source
Originally published at www.refinery29.com.