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What Is a Russian Manicure and Is It Safe?

Picture of Jessica Buff
Jessica Buff

CEO/Founder Of Bela Beauty College

TLDR;

A Russian manicure is a dry technique that uses an electric file to remove the cuticle and surrounding skin for a flawless nail finish. While it offers a polished, long-lasting result, it can be unsafe if not performed by a trained professional under strict hygiene standards.

Russian Manicure: The Method Behind the Trend

A Russian manicure is not your average nail treatment.

  • It’s a dry manicure technique, meaning there’s no soaking of the hands in water.

  • It involves the use of an electric nail file (e-file) to clean the nail plate and remove the cuticle thoroughly.

  • The result? An ultra-clean, sharp nail bed and a photo-ready finish.

Unlike a traditional manicure that pushes the cuticles back and trims only the loose skin, the Russian method removes the cuticle completely using different drill bits. This is what gives it that flawless, clean edge.

Tools Used in a Russian Manicure:

  • E-file (electric file machine)

  • A range of ceramic or diamond drill bits

  • Cuticle scissors or fine trimmers

  • Dust brush and polish buffer

How It Compares to a Regular Manicure:

  • Traditional: Soaking, pushing cuticles back, basic trimming

  • Russian: Dry technique, e-file precision, complete cuticle removal

  • Result: Cleaner aesthetic and longer polish lifespan

Why Is It So Popular in Australia?

The Russian manicure trend has exploded in Australia, especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Here’s why:

  • Influencers on TikTok and Instagram constantly show off those crisp, clean cuticle lines

  • It pairs beautifully with gel manicures, nail art, and nude polish trends

  • Many clients prefer the extended polish durability—up to 3–4 weeks with no lifting

Nail salons across Australia, including Bela Beauty College-certified nail techs, have begun offering the service due to growing demand and customer fascination with Eastern European nail techniques.

Is Russian Manicure Safe? Let’s Break It Down

Yes, but only if performed correctly.

Here’s what you need to know about manicure safety:

Potential Risks:

  • Cuticle Removal Dangers: The cuticle protects the nail matrix (where new nail cells are made). Removing it completely can open the skin to infection.

  • Over-Filing: If the e-file is used incorrectly, it can thin or damage the natural nail.

  • Skin Trauma: Aggressive filing or untrained hands may cause nicks, bleeding, or soreness.

  • Nail Infection: Improper hygiene can lead to paronychia, fungal infections, or even permanent nail issues.

When It’s Safe:

  • A trained, certified nail technician understands the right angle, speed, and drill bits to use

  • Tools must be sterilised between clients

  • There should be no pain or excessive pressure during the service

  • The surrounding skin must remain intact and moisturized

At Bela Beauty College, all nail technicians undergo sanitation, anatomy, and advanced e-filing training to ensure services are both safe and salon-grade.

Pros and Cons of the Russian Manicure

Every beauty treatment comes with trade-offs. Let’s explore both sides:

Pros:

  • Impeccable Finish: Super clean nail base enhances the look of gel polish or nail art

  • Long-Lasting: Polish adheres better and lasts up to 3–4 weeks

  • Perfect for Social Content: Makes nails pop in photos and videos

Cons:

  • Not for DIY: Requires training and certification to perform safely

  • Infection Risk: Higher if technician is untrained or tools are not sterile

  • Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Those with allergies or delicate cuticles may experience irritation

If your nails are prone to thinning or your skin breaks easily, you may want to speak with a dermatologist before booking.

How to Tell If Your Nail Tech Is Doing It Safely

Choosing the right salon isn’t just about pretty interiors or Instagram-worthy chairs—it’s about safety.

Questions to Ask Before Your Appointment:

  • Are your technicians trained in Russian manicure specifically?

  • Do you use autoclave or medical-grade sterilisers?

  • Can I see how your tools are cleaned?

  • What’s your process for e-filing near the cuticle?

Red Flags During the Procedure:

  • Bleeding, discomfort, or burning sensations

  • Use of reused drill bits without sterilisation

  • Technician rushing through cuticle work

  • No gloves or basic hygiene measures

Client Safety Checklist:

  • Clean workspace

  • Disinfected tools

  • New file or bit used per client

No cutting corners with gloves, masks, or dust collectors

Russian Manicure vs Traditional Manicure

Feature

Russian Manicure

Traditional Manicure

Soaking

No (dry technique)

Yes (water soak)

Cuticle Treatment

Removed with e-file

Pushed and trimmed

Precision

Very high

Moderate

Longevity

3–4 weeks

1–2 weeks

Best For

Clean edge and gel polish

Basic maintenance or polish

If you love flawless, Instagram-perfect nails that last longer, Russian manicure might be your ideal pick. But if you have sensitive skin or cuticle conditions, a traditional method may be better suited.

Are Russian Manicures Safe for Natural Nails?

That depends on both your nail health and the person performing the manicure.

Good Candidates:

  • Healthy, thick nail beds

  • No recent infections or nail trauma

  • Prefer gel polish or long-lasting finishes

Think Twice If You Have:

  • Very thin or peeling nails

  • Previous cuticle injuries

  • Allergic skin reactions to products or tools

Always consult a certified professional or dermatologist if unsure. Safety should come before style.

Nail Health Awareness: What to Keep in Mind

If your goal is long-term nail health, remember the following:

  • Don’t skip cuticle oil—hydration helps restore the barrier

  • Take breaks between manicures to let nails breathe

  • Don’t pick at regrowth or chipped polish

  • Avoid technicians who rush or don’t answer your questions

Certified salons like Bela Beauty College ensure that the manicure enhances your nails—not damages them over time.

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