Russian Manicure
with Regular Polish

Typically 5 to 7 days before you start to see wear at the tips. The precision of Russian manicure preparation improves adhesion compared to a standard manicure — the cleaner the nail plate, the better the polish holds. That said, regular polish is not formulated for extended wear the way gel is, and it will chip or peel eventually, depending on how you use your hands.

Yes — that's one of the main advantages of regular polish. A cotton pad soaked in nail polish remover is all you need. Acetone-based remover works fastest; non-acetone works too but takes slightly longer. Removing it does not damage the nail plate or require any special technique. You can reapply polish at home or come back for a fresh application.

When performed correctly, it is not painful. The e-file works at precise speeds appropriate for each stage, and the technique is careful and deliberate. Clients with very thin nail plates or who are new to Russian manicure may feel slightly more sensitivity during the cuticle work, but discomfort is not a normal part of a well-executed Russian manicure. If anything hurts, tell us and we adjust immediately.

Pterygium is the thin, transparent layer of skin that grows from the cuticle onto the nail plate. It is not the cuticle itself — it is a separate tissue that adheres to the nail surface. If left in place, polish applied over it will lift from that area quickly and unevenly. Removing it with an e-file is one of the defining steps of Russian manicure — it is what makes the nail plate truly clean and what creates the long, clean nail line that the technique is known for.

Yes. We can remove your existing gel at the same appointment and finish with regular polish. If the nail plate is in good condition after removal, we can proceed with the full Russian manicure and polish application. If the nails are significantly weakened from the gel, we may suggest a bare manicure first and regular polish at the following appointment — we'll assess at the time and advise accordingly.

Every two to four weeks is typical, depending on how quickly your nails grow and how much the polish wears. Because regular polish can be removed at home, some clients come in for the Russian manicure prep less frequently and handle color changes themselves between visits. We'll give you a recommendation based on your nails after the first appointment.

You are welcome to bring your own polish if you have a specific shade you love. We also have a selection of colors available at the salon. If you're bringing your own, make sure it hasn't thickened or dried out — old polish applies unevenly and will affect the result regardless of how well the nail is prepared.