manicure

Hands are an essential part of our body. We use our hands for various different activities like cooking, cleaning utensils, washing clothes and many more. Thus our hands are exposed to dirt, dust, detergents and chemicals. Therefore, we need to take good care of our hands and fingernails and one of the best ways to do so is manicure.

Manicure is defined as a cosmetic beauty treatment for fingernails and hands. The word ‘manicure’ is derived from the Latin words manus, meaning “hand” and cura meaning “care”. It is a simple method for caring, protecting and pampering hands. The method includes nail filing, nail polishing, cuticle treatment and hand massage. It gives a soothing effect to hands and nails, making them look clean, soft and healthy.

The history of manicure can be traced back to 5000 years ago. In southern Babylonia, noble man used solid gold tools for manicure and in India people used Henna. Henna is the most popular plant that is being used since ancient time for manicure and is gaining popularity in India and around the globe.

There are various types of manicure that involves the use of different oils, creams and treatments. The most common among them are as follows:

- French Manicure: It is the most widely accepted technique for nail care. This technique involves the use of white paint on the nail tips and French pink over the base.
- Paraffin Wax Treatment: This technique involves the use of warm wax that is rubbed into the nails, hands and wrist. Paraffin wax can also be mixed with various botanical ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile and many more.
- American Manicure: This simply involves shaping of the fingernails.
- Luxury Manicure: This is the best technique with complete hand treatment that includes hand massage, cuticle treatment, filing nails, painting nails and stimulating nail growth. This improves the texture and feel of the nails and skin.
- Hot Oil Manicure: This technique involves the use of hot oil for hand massage. This cleans the cuticle, softens them and relaxes the skin.

Performing manicure at home is cost effective, convenient and safe. Many home manicure kits are also available in the market. These kits come with various tools and supplies that are used for manicure.

The most common tools required are nail clippers, cuticle knife, cuticle clippers, nail file, scissors, brush, orange stick, finger bath, and buffer. Other essentials include massage lotion, bath salt, creams, nail paints, towels, color vanish, and cotton balls.

In few words, manicure ensures best health and perfect look of the hands and nails.