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Russian manicure: what it is, who it suits and what it costs

A Russian manicure is first and foremost a much more thorough nail prep: instead of pushing back the cuticles, they are lifted and removed millimetre by millimetre with an electric file and small bits (it is also called a “dry manicure” or “e-file manicure”). The polish can then be applied right up to the skin, without the small gap that usually appears after a few days.

What it changes for you

• A very clean finish from day one, as if the nail were longer.
• An edge that stays tidy for longer: regrowth shows later, and the manicure often gains a week.
• No water or soak: the skin is not softened, so the polish bonds better.
• A longer, more meticulous appointment, so it costs more than a classic manicure.

Who is it for?

Anyone with thick or fast-growing cuticles, anyone who wants a picture-perfect result (wedding, event, detailed nail art) and, more generally, anyone who likes a flawless manicure that lasts. It combines with gel polish, an overlay or a gel set. If your cuticles are thin and healthy, a well-done classic manicure is often enough.

Does it damage the nail?

No, provided it is done by a trained nail technician: the e-file never touches the nail plate, only the dead skin around it. That is exactly why we offer it on request, with the technicians who master it.

Time and price

Allow around 1 h to 1 h 15 with gel polish, versus 45 minutes for a classic manicure. At Kim Nails the Russian manicure is available on request; the exact price is shown when you book, on top of the chosen service (manicure with gel polish from €30 depending on the salon). Write “Russian manicure” in your booking note or ask at the front desk.

It is mainly offered at our Paris 8th salon: see Russian manicure in Paris 8th. And to make your gel polish last even longer, our tips are in How long does gel polish last.