Overview
I thought I knew — and had tried — every type of pedicure salons had to offer, from the classic and the more intricate medical pedicures, to every polish option imaginable, including gel, Bio Sculpture, and even acrylic (controversial, but so useful for temporarily mending broken toenails). This summer, a new technique has entered my radar, though: the Russian pedicure.
As someone who gets her nails done every two weeks, I was already familiar with Russian manicure techniques. In fact, it’s firmly on my list of favorite methods. But I didn’t realize that the dry, ultra-precise approach had made its way to toes, too.
If social media is anything to go by, the Russian pedicure is quickly replacing the traditional salon pedicure, and it’s easy to see why: the finish is exceptionally clean, precise, and long-lasting for summer and beyond. With that in mind, here’s everything an expert wants you to know about Russian pedicures before you book one.
What is a Russian pedicure and what makes it different from a standard salon pedicure?
Ami Streets, a session manicurist and pedicurist, explains that there are a few key differences between a Russian pedicure — popularized by Russian and Eastern European nail technicians — and a standard salon pedicure. “It’s mainly in the technique, precision, and focus on the cuticles and surrounding skin,” says Streets. She adds, “Unlike a traditional pedicure, which typically begins with a foot soak to soften skin, and uses mainly manual tools such as cuticle pushers, nippers and foot files, a Russian pedicure is usually performed on dry feet using an e-file.”
In qualified hands, and provided your toenails aren’t damaged, e-files are safe and effective. “The treatment focuses on meticulously removing dead cuticles and skin around the nail to create a very clean, defined appearance — better than is typically possible with manual tools,” says Streets. She adds that it’s especially beneficial if you experience dry, rough, or flaky skin around the nail folds.
The immaculate prep is usually followed by gel, rather than traditional polish, which accounts for the mesmerizing high-shine finish, like this pedi by Liace Beauty. Streets adds that cleaning the nail bed so thoroughly means gel polish can be applied much closer to the cuticle, helping your pedicure last longer.
What are the main benefits of a Russian pedicure?
“One of the main benefits of a Russian pedicure is the exceptionally neat, polished finish it creates,” says Streets, like this pedicure by Namoor UK. Head to Instagram, and you’ll see perfectly square toenails and painstakingly applied polish — no streaks, spills, or chips — even after weeks of wear. “It’s the thorough prep which allows gel polish to be applied closer to the skin, making regrowth less noticeable,” says Streets.
That’s not all. Streets explains that because the treatment is usually performed without soaking the feet, it’s much easier to distinguish between living tissue and dead skin. “This allows for more accurate and controlled cuticle work,” she says, resulting in a cleaner polish application without flooding the surrounding skin or premature lifting.
What to consider before booking a Russian pedicure
Details
We’ll always drive home the importance of choosing a qualified nail technician, since e-files and other tools can prove damaging in the wrong hands. This is particularly important with a Russian pedicure — and Streets agrees: “Russian pedicures rely heavily on the correct use of an e-file and it’s all too easy to over-file the skin or remove healthy tissue,” she says. This can increase the risk of discomfort, bleeding, or infection. “Cuticles provide a natural protective barrier against bacteria and fungi, so overly aggressive removal should always be avoided,” adds Streets.
Hygiene is paramount with any pedicure, but because a Russian pedicure involves more tools, proper sterilization is non-negotiable. “It’s important to ensure that all tools, including e-file bits and cuticle nippers, are thoroughly cleaned between clients to minimize the risk of infection,” says Streets. She adds that files, in particular, should either be glass or single-use.
Another thing: a Russian pedicure should never hurt. “Burning sensations from excessive heat from the e-file, or any bleeding, are signs that the treatment should be stopped or adjusted,” says Streets. A properly skilled nail technician will always work gently and with precision.
Who should avoid a Russian pedicure?
Considering a Russian pedicure involves more skin removal than a traditional pedicure, Streets advises that anyone with conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system should speak to their doctor first. “That’s because cuticle removal and potential nail injuries — even minor ones — may carry more risk,” explains Streets.
She adds that anyone with contagious foot conditions should also avoid the treatment. “Think active fungal infections or warts,” says Streets. “In this case, you should seek treatment from a podiatrist and avoid this service until these conditions have been managed.”
How much is a Russian pedicure and where can I get one?
Despite the name, Russian pedicures are becoming increasingly popular in the US, but prices vary depending on the salon and city. One thing to note is that because the treatment is more intricate and typically takes longer than a traditional pedicure (around 90 minutes to an hour), you can expect to pay more. In New York, prices start at around $100 for a Russian pedicure, with the cost increasing if you opt for gel polish.
If you find your pedicure chips as soon as you put your shoes on, or you hate the grow-out and maintenance that comes with traditional gel pedicures, chances are you’ll love the Russian version. “Ultimately, the defining feature of a Russian pedicure is delivering beautiful, long-lasting results,” says Streets. “Just be sure it’s carried out by a trained professional.”
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Source
Originally published at www.refinery29.com.