Introduction to Nail Technologyhttp://www.skillsacademy.co.za/introduction-to-nail-technology/

Types of Manicures• There are various types of manicures. • The choice is totally dependent on the individual, but having

information about the different manicure types, can help you to guide your client into selecting the type of manicure that best suites them.

Basic Manicure• If you are new to having a manicure, it’s best to start with this

basic type. The nail technician will apply a cream, lotion or oil on the cuticles first, and then place the hands in a warm dish of water to soak for 5 minutes.

• Once his soaking process is completed, the cuticles will then need to be tamed. The technician then dries your hand and enquires what length of nails is preferred by the client.

• Once the nail length is decided upon, the next decision centers on the shape of the nail. Here there are options from square, oval, and the popular stiletto. Once the shape of the nail is arrived at, the nails are then massaged.

French Manicure• This is an ageless classic, and is aimed at establishing a clean

gorgeous look. • A clear pale pink or beige polish is applied over the entire nail.

The tips are capped with white polish. • The resultant look is healthy, vibrant and perfect for all

occasions.

Reverse French Manicure• On the flip side, one might consider a reverse French

manicure. • This look was popular on the fashion runways in Europe. In

this look, the moon of the nail is painted in white, with the rest of the nail being done in the darker shade.

• Another popular option is to simply reverse the colours, with a strip of color along the tip.

American Manicure• This has similarities to French, however the shape and color

differs. • In the American manicure, the tips are often rounded and use

more neutral or off white colors on the tips, instead of the bright whites used in French.

Gel Manicure• This is an attractive option for a longer lasting manicure,

without the commitment of acrylic nails. • The same steps of the basic manicure are followed, except a

special polish that needs curing under a UV light is applied. • This cured polish typically lasts longer than the polish used in

the basic manicure, and is less prone to chipping.

Paraffin Manicure• This is a must for anyone with dry or overworked hands. • It utilizes paraffin wax which provides instantaneous moisture

to the skin, leaving it supple. • This is then followed by a hand massage and finished off with

a polish. • Some paraffin treatments include the addition of various oils,

such as grape seed, to further enjoy moisturizing benefits.

Hot Stone Manicure• This is the perfect pamper gift or package. • It includes all of the delights of the basic manicure, plus has

the addition of the hot stones, which when placed over the hands, provide relief and comfort.

• This manicure can also be done at home.

Manicure Embellishments• These days, manicures can be personalized with

embellishments. • There are a variety of nail tips, nail arts, stickers and

embellishments that are attractive options to enhance your manicure

Artificial Nails• Here pre- made nail designs and nail tips can be selected. • It allows one the opportunity of coordinating the designs with

the entire look. • A manicure, however cannot be given when artificial nails are

on, as it interferes with the bonding process.

Acrylic Nails• Acrylic nails are obtained by mixing a liquid monomer with a

polymer powder. A highly skilled technician then obtains a perfect, consistent chemical blend, or mix ratio, and applies this to the nail.

• The nail is buffed and filed down, to the desired length and shape. A nail polish of the client’s choice is applied and finally topped with a protective top coat. As the nail grows, the tip and the acrylic layer also grows out, exposing the natural ridge close to the cuticle. This visible demarcation requires a fill every few weeks.

Introduction to Nail Technologyhttp://www.skillsacademy.co.za/introduction-to-nail-technology/