Manicure Pre-Care:

1. Consultation:

   • Discuss Preferences: If it's your first manicure at a new salon, discuss any nail concerns or preferences with your nail technician. This includes any allergies or sensitivities you might have.

2. Nail Health:

   • Check Your Nails: Ensure your nails are in good health before your appointment. Avoid booking a manicure if you have any open cuts, infections, or severe nail damage.

3. Hydration:

   • Moisturize Hands and Cuticles: Apply hand cream or cuticle oil regularly leading up to your appointment to keep your skin and nails well-hydrated.

4. Avoid Certain Products:

   • No Heavy Creams or Oils: Avoid applying heavy creams, oils, or lotions to your hands and nails on the day of your appointment as they can affect the adhesion of nail polish or treatments.

5. Nail Preparation:

   • Clean Nails: Make sure your nails are clean and free of old polish before your appointment. However, avoid removing polish with acetone right before your manicure as it can dry out your nails.

6. Avoid Nail Removal:

   • No Artificial Nails: If you are removing artificial nails, allow your natural nails some time to recover and breathe before your next manicure.

7. Consult Medications:

   • Inform Your Technician: Let your nail technician know if you are taking any medications that may affect your nails or skin.

8. Shower or Wash Hands:

   • Clean Hands: Wash your hands before your appointment to ensure they are clean and free of any residual products.

Manicure Post-Care:

1. Avoid Water Exposure:

   • Limit Water Contact: Try to avoid submerging your hands in water for at least 24 hours after your manicure to ensure that polish or treatments fully set and last longer.

2. Avoid Certain Products:

   • No Heavy Creams or Oils: Refrain from using heavy hand creams, oils, or lotions that can affect the finish of your manicure in the first 24 hours.

3. Nail Care:

   • Moisturize Regularly: Apply hand cream and cuticle oil daily to keep your hands and nails hydrated and prevent dryness and breakage.

4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

   • Protect Your Nails: Wear gloves when using cleaning products or harsh chemicals to prevent your manicure from chipping or becoming damaged.

5. Avoid Nail Damage:

   • Be Gentle: Avoid using your nails as tools or exposing them to excessive stress or trauma. This helps in preventing chips and breaks.

6. No Excessive Heat:

   • Limit Heat Exposure: Avoid hot baths, saunas, and prolonged exposure to heat within 24 hours after your manicure to prevent polish from melting or lifting.

7. Monitor for Issues:

   • Check for Problems: Keep an eye on your nails for any signs of damage, infection, or irritation. If you notice anything unusual, contact your nail technician.

8. Regular Maintenance:

   • Routine Care: Schedule regular manicures to maintain healthy nails and keep them looking their best. Regular care helps in strengthening nails and preventing common issues like chipping and peeling.

9. Avoid Excessive Buffing:

   • Gentle Care: Avoid buffing or filing your nails excessively between manicures, as this can weaken the nail and make it more prone to breakage.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care:

1. Healthy Nail Routine:

   • Consistent Care: Maintain a regular nail care routine including moisturizing, gentle filing, and avoiding harsh treatments or chemicals.

2. Healthy Lifestyle:

   • Balanced Diet: Ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support nail health, such as biotin, vitamin E, and protein.

3. Regular Check-Ins:

   • Monitor Changes: Regularly check the health of your nails and consult with your nail technician if you experience any persistent issues or concerns.