9 Types of Manicures: How to Choose The Best One

Hey there, nail enthusiasts! Have you ever stared at the services menu at a salon like me and felt overwhelmed by all the different types of manicure options? “Gel? Acrylic? Shellac? X Y Z… How to choose…? What’s the difference?!” We’ve all been there. 

But don’t worry. Before your next visit, let’s comprehend the world of manicures! Knowing the particulars will help you decide what type of manicures are best for your nails.

Whether you’re looking for long lasting shine, a natural French look, or a strengthening treatment for your natural nails, there’s always a manicure out there for you. 

Types of Manicures

• Regular Manicure
• Gel Manicure
• Shellac Manicure
• Acrylic Manicure
• Dip Powder Manicure
• French Manicure
• Press-On Nails
• Russian Manicure
• Japanese Manicure

Regular or Classic Manicures

The classic manicure is the OG of nail care—a tried and true method for polished, healthy looking nails.

What Does Classic Manicure Include

During a classic manicure, a manicurist will first start by giving your hands a soak, followed by cuticle care (trimming and pushing back). They’ll then shape and buff your nails to perfection before applying a base coat, your chosen polish color, and finally, a top coat for extra shine and protection.

How Long Does It Last

While it may not be the most durable option, a classic manicure can last 5-7 days with proper care. Regular hand washing and daily activities can lead to chipping, so be mindful!

Who Is It For

This manicure is perfect for those who want a natural, healthy looking nail without the long-term commitment of gels or acrylics. It’s also a great choice for first-timers or those on a tighter budget. Plus, if you’re someone who likes to change your nail color frequently, the classic manicure allows for easy polish removal and reapplication at home.

Removing Method

Removing a classic manicure is a breeze! Simply use a nail polish remover containing acetone. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently swipe across each nail. You can find affordable nail polish removers at most drugstores, making this a budget-friendly option throughout.

I explained this topic holistically in my previous post, where I had discussed the benefits, cost treatment duration, etc.

Gel Manicures

Alright, polish lovers, next up let’s talk about gel manicures! This popular choice is all about long-lasting, chip-resistant color.

What Does A Gel Manicure Include

Gel manicures take the classic manicure a step further. After the usual nail prep (soaking, cuticle care, shaping, buffing), your manicurist will apply a base coat, followed by thin layers of colored gel polish. Each layer gets cured under a special UV or LED lamp, which hardens the polish instantly. They’ll finish with a shiny top coat and another round under the lamp.

How Long Does It Last

Gel manicures are the champions of durability, lasting a whopping 2-3 weeks with minimal chipping! Sounds amazing, right?

Who Is It For

If you’re tired of constantly re-painting your nails or hate chipped polish, then a gel manicure is a lifesaver. It’s perfect for special occasions, vacations, or anyone who wants long-lasting, flawless nails. However, keep in mind that gel polish can be a bit harder on your natural nails than a classic manicure, so be sure to take breaks in between. 

Removing Method

Gel manicure removal is trickier than your standard polish remover. Typically, salons soak your nails in acetone and then scrape off the gel once it’s softened. DIY removal is not recommended as it can damage your nails if not done properly. So, when planning for a gel manicure, consider the removal cost too.

Shellac manicures

Shellac manicures have become a popular choice, often considered a gentler alternative to gel manicures.

What Does A Shellac Manicure Include

Shellac is a brand name by CND for a specific type of gel polish. The application process is very similar to a gel manicure, consisting of a soak, cuticle care, shaping, buffing, then base coat, colored Shellac gel polish layers cured under a UV lamp, and a final top coat. Some claim the Shellac formula is slightly less harsh on nails compared to traditional gel polishes.

How Long Does It Last

Shellac manicures last up to 2 weeks or more. To extend the life span of shellac nails, it is necessary to protect them by wearing gloves while doing activities that can easily cause them to peel off, like when doing laundry and dishwashing. 

Who Is It For

Shellac can be a good choice for those who are interested in gel manicures but worried about potential nail damage. It might also be a good option for people who think that classic manicure chips too quickly.

Removing Method

Similar to gel manicures, the removal of Shellac is best left to the professionals. Salons will typically use a process involving acetone to soak and soften the Shellac, followed by gentle removal. While some claim Shellac might be slightly easier to remove than traditional gel polish, DIY removal is still not recommended due to the risk of damaging your nails.

Acrylic Manicures

Craving dramatic nail art or extra length? Then acrylics might be your new best friend.

What Does an Acrylic Manicure Include

Acrylic manicures are all about creating artificial nail extensions. A liquid monomer and a powdered acrylic resin are applied over your natural nail bed to sculpt a custom made nail. In this way, you can get incredible length and design of your choice. Once the acrylic is shaped and smoothed, gel or Shellac polish will be applied for vibrant color so it stands out more.

How Long Does It Last

Acrylics are the undisputed champions of wear time, lasting for up to 4-6 weeks with proper care (including regular refills). That means no more chipped polish for a good month and a half!

Who Is It For

Acrylics are perfect for those who love long, dramatic nails or want a completely new look for their natural nails. They’re also a good option for people with weak or damaged natural nails that need extra reinforcement. However, the application process takes longer than any other manicure, so get ready for a long time at the salon.

Removing Method

Acrylic removal is a professional job. Salons will typically soak your nails in acetone to loosen the acrylic, followed by careful filing and buffing to remove any remaining residue. At-home removal of acrylics is a big NO! It can be very damaging to your natural nails and is best left to a trained nail technician. So, when planning for an acrylic manicure, consider the refill and removal costs too.

Dip Powder Manicures

Dip powder manicures have exploded in popularity lately, offering an alternative to traditional gel or acrylics.

What Does A Dip Powder Manicure Include

Dip powder manicures ditch the liquid polish altogether. After the usual nail prep (soaking, cuticle care, shaping, buffing), the manicurist will apply a base coat, then “dip” each finger into a vibrantly colored powder that adheres to the wet base. This process is repeated for multiple thin layers to create a strong, pigmented finish. An activator spray sets the powder, and a final top coat seals everything in place.

How Long Does It Last

Dip powder manicures have an impressive wear time, typically lasting 2-3 weeks with minimal chipping. This makes them a strong contender for those who want long-lasting color without the commitment of acrylics.

Who Is It For

If you’re looking for a more durable option than a classic manicure, but are hesitant about the commitment or potential damage of acrylics, then dip powder is a good fit. It’s also a good choice for people with allergies to gel polish monomers, as dip powders typically don’t contain them.

Removing Method

While dip powder removal is generally considered easier than acrylics, it’s still not a DIY project. Salons will typically soak your nails in acetone to soften the powder, followed by gentle filing to remove any residue. Improper removal at home can damage your nails, so professional removal is recommended.

French Manicure

The French manicure is a true original classic, offering a touch of sophistication that never goes out of style.

What Does A French Manicure Include

The French manicure is all about creating a natural, clean look. Your technician will typically start with a sheer or nude base coat to even out your natural nail color. Then comes the signature touch: a crisp white tip is painted at the free edge of the nail, mimicking the look of natural nail growth. A final clear top coat seals everything in place for a glossy finish. No fancy nail art or dramatic colors here! The French manicure is all about understated elegance.

How Long Does It Last

The wear time of a French manicure depends on the type of polish used. With a classic polish, you can expect 3-7 days before chipping starts. However, if you opt for a French manicure with gel polish, you can enjoy 2-3 weeks of chip-free wear.

Who Is It For

The French manicure is a versatile choice that flatters all nail shapes and lengths. It’s perfect for those who want a polished yet natural look. This makes it a great option for work-appropriate manicures, special occasions, or just about anyone who loves a classic and timeless style.

Removing Method

Removing a French manicure is just like removing any other type of polish. You can use a nail polish remover containing acetone. Simply apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently swipe across each nail. Since French manicures often use a classic polish, this makes it a more budget-friendly option throughout.

•  For a detailed breakdown of this universally flattering look, you must check out my previous post.

Press-On Nails

Ever dreamt of long, fabulous nails but don’t have the time or budget for a salon visit? 

Here comes the press-on nails, a convenient and budget-friendly way to achieve instant nail art magic! Immediate glam without the salon commitment.

What Are Press-on Nails

Press-on nails are pre-made artificial nails made from either plastic or acrylic. They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, lengths, and designs, offering something for everyone. Application is simple, you apply a small amount of nail glue (often included in the set) to your natural nail, then press on the artificial nail and hold for a few seconds. Voila! Instant glam nails in just minutes.

How Long Does It Last

The wear time of press-on nails depends on the quality of the nails and the adhesive used. Generally, you can expect them to last anywhere from a few days to around a week with proper care.

Who Is It For

Press-on nails are a perfect choice for anyone who wants temporary nail enhancements. They’re ideal for:

• Trying out a new trend or design before committing to a salon manicure.
• Special occasions when you want instant glam nails without the trouble or hassle.
• People with weak or damaged natural nails need a temporary protective layer while their nails grow out.
• Anyone on a tight budget who can’t afford a salon manicure and needs something on the go.

Removing Method

Removing press-on nails is quite easy. You can soak your nails in warm soapy water for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive. Gently remove with an orangewood stick. Be careful not to use force, as this can damage your natural nails. Once removed, you can gently buff away any remaining residue and apply cuticle oil to moisturize your natural nails. Since press-on nails are reusable (with proper care), this makes them an extremely budget-friendly option in the long run.

The Russian Manicure

The Russian manicure has been making waves on social media sites such as TikTok lately, praised for its incredibly clean and long-lasting results.

What Does The Russian Manicure Include

Unlike a traditional manicure where the cuticles are soaked and pushed back, the Russian manicure takes a drier approach. A trained technician will use a special electric drill with tiny bits to gently remove the dead skin around the nail bed and clean up the cuticle area for a super precise and polished look. Think of it like a super-powered exfoliation session for your cuticles! After the cuticle work, the technician will shape and buff your nails before applying your chosen polish color.

How Long Does It Last

The Russian manicure has a relatively long wear time due to the meticulous cleaning of the cuticle area. With proper care, you can expect a chip-free manicure for around 2-3 weeks, quite similar to a gel manicure.

Who Is It For

The Russian manicure is ideal for those who want an exceptionally clean and polished look around their nails. It’s also a good choice for people who dislike or are peeved by the “wet” feeling of traditional manicures where the nails are soaked. However, it’s important to note that the Russian manicure requires an experienced technician due to the use of an electric drill. If done incorrectly, it can cause some serious issues or damages.

Removing Method

The removal process for a Russian manicure is similar to gel manicures. Salons will typically use acetone to soak and soften the polish, followed by gentle removal. At-home removal is not recommended due to the risk of damaging your nails. Since the Russian manicure requires a skilled technician for both application and removal, keep in mind the cost when considering this option.

• For a more detailed explanation, you can refer to my previous blog post on Russian Manicure.

The Japanese Manicure

If you prioritize healthy, natural nails over colorful dramatic designs, then the Japanese manicure might be the perfect match for you.

What Does The Japanese Manicure Include

The Japanese manicure is all about strengthening and nourishing your natural nails. It only includes natural ingredients like beeswax, pearl powder, and vitamins. The manicurist will buff your nails to remove any surface imperfections, then apply a special paste made from these natural ingredients. This paste is buffed further to penetrate the nail bed and promote healthy growth. Finally, a powder polish is applied for a subtle shine and added protection.

How Long Does It Last

The Japanese manicure doesn’t have the longest wear time when compared to other options. You can expect a natural-looking shine for about a week to ten days. However, regular treatments can lead to stronger, healthier nails in the long run.

Who Is It For

This is the best type of manicure for weak, brittle, or damaged nails. It’s also a great choice for people who prefer a natural, unpainted look and want to prioritize nail health. 

Removing Method

The removal process for a Japanese manicure is very simple! Since it doesn’t use harsh polishes, there’s no need for acetone. You can simply buff off any remaining powder polish with a soft nail buffer right at home. This budget-friendly removal process is another advantage of this natural nail care treatment.

• Curious to learn more about the Japanese manicure? Check out my previous post for a comprehensive breakdown!

Conclusion

So here we are after exploring all kinds of manicures! You must be armed with the knowledge to choose the perfect manicure for your unique needs and preferences. You must be aware of what are the best artificial nails to get and which one is the longest lasting Mani.

Here are some takeaways to remember:

• How much wear time do you need? Do you prioritize long-lasting color or healthy, natural nails?
• Salon manicures can vary in price depending on the type and complexity. Always consider removal costs when planning for manicures.
• While some manicures offer stunning results, prioritize the one that minimizes damage to your natural nails.
• Remember, your nails are an accessory you wear every day! Treat them with care, they deserve, and don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect mani magic!