Advice from a Manicurist

Have you ever wondered what you should look for before getting your nails done? Are there things that are easily identifiable before you sit in the chair? How much pain should be involved when you are receiving artificial nails or a pedicure? Should there even be pain? And finally, what tools are safe and should they be sanitized?

The answer is you should be able to identify a clean, safe, and pain-free environment before you ever give a manicurist any part of your body.

The first thing you should know is whether or not the technician is forthcoming with answers to your questions, and yes, asking questions is okay. A good technician will take the time to answer your questions whether you approach her in person or call. Examples of questions to ask are: what brand of chemicals she uses or does she drill the natural nail bed.

Look at the desktop (or near it). You should see a jar filled with barbicide (usually blue liquid, but there is red) with implements in it. Pay attention to the liquid - it should not have floating debris in it. Ask where the bathroom or wash basin is. Are there used nail brushes lying on or around the sink? If so, do not use them. They should be sanitized and handed to you by your manicurist when she is ready for you to scrub. Once you use the brush you should return it to her so she can re-sanitize. So, if you see dirty barbicide or brushes along the sink - consider the establishment or manicurist carefully. Finally, the manicurist's license with her picture on it should be in plain sight.

If you are afraid to just walk in and ask questions go with a friend while she has a service, note her reactions to the service. Does she flinch in pain? Look around does the woman receiving a pedicure seem relaxed or does she look like the service hurts? Ask around; are your friends happy with the service? You don't have to settle you can be informed.

Back to the tools/implements used...I will tell you this so you will not have to ask - a technician should NEVER use an electric drill on your natural nail bed. This can cause pain and possibly irreparable damage to the nail.

Another question you should ask yourself is, does the manicurist speak your language or is easy to understand and communicate with? Also note whether a client stays with one technician or is she shifted about as if she is on an assembly line. If you want a more singular experience you might take that into consideration.

It is good practice to ask questions and be observant. Know that if you ask for acrylics (tips) your natural nail will be cut down, but if you ask for sculptures your nails can be worked with without excessive trimming. Know the services and the time you should expect to spend in the chair. If you go somewhere that is fast, keep in mind that fast isn't always the best. You may have to sacrifice personal comfort in the name of speed and cheap prices.

Remember, this is your service, enjoy it no matter what you decide.