Nail treatments are some of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to pamper yourself and polish your look. Nail services are now regular menu items at most day spas and spa retreat centers all over the country. They offer a variety of services, from simple nail maintenance to elaborate nail decoration. Make sure your spa or manicurist has a valid license and works in an inspected, licensed facility, according to California's Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, to protect your health and safety.
Manicure
Manicures are basic nail-maintenance treatments. During your manicure, a nail technician will trim your cuticles, cut and shape your nails, remove hangnails, moisturize your nail beds, clean under your nails and paint them to your preference. Some manicurists offer additional services, such as hand massages and nail-strengthening treatments. Manicurists complete the procedure on natural nails or as touch-ups to hands with artificial nails. Both men and women get manicures.
Artificial Nails
Spa nail care often includes artificial nails. These are usually made from hard acrylic. A nail technician will determine the overall length and shape of your preferred nails and attach artificial nails to your original nail with glue. Next, your tech will add an overlay made from acrylic powder mixed with a liquid hardening agent. This coats the top of the nail, fills in the gap between the natural and artificial nail and provides an overall thicker and more durable product. Artificial nails are painted and decorated, either with standard polish, an airbrush or with decals, gemstones and other nail accessories. Artificial nails need to be replaced or refilled every few weeks to prevent gaps that occur as more of your natural nail surface grows.
Pedicures
Pedicures are literally manicures for your feet. They're often included in spa treatments because they're relaxing and pampering. Pedicurists typically begin by placing you in a reclining position and soaking your feet in warm, fragrant water to soften your foot skin. Foot massage and exfoliation helps remove dead skin and calluses from your heels, toes and the bottoms of your feet. Your pedicurist will then treat your nails by managing cuticles, then cutting, shaping and painting your nails. Many spa pedicure chairs offer optional heat, massage or music.
Nail Care
Some spas offer services aimed at improving your nails. Overlays, silk wraps and hardening treatments can strengthen your natural nails so you no longer need artificial nails. Nail repair helps save a broken natural or artificial nail so you're not faced with one odd-shaped or odd-sized nail in an otherwise perfect manicure. Spa nail technicians can also remove your artificial nails and provide strengthening treatments to the sometimes weakened nails beneath.
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