We all desperately chase the illusion of perfection. When a client sits down at the manicurist’s table, they literally give free rein to the professional to do whatever it takes to achieve perfection.
In nail salons, it has become a huge trend and expectation to remove even the tiniest, barely visible bits of skin. Various, often intimidating, drill bits are used near our cuticles; at least three types of scissors and different buffers are employed to ensure a flawless result. However, in inexperienced hands, these tools can cause injuries that may only be repaired through costly and lengthy medical treatment. Machine manicure is only truly perfect if it does not cause any pain or sensitivity. Cuticle pushing should not hurt, lifting the cuticle should not be uncomfortable, and it’s a bad sign if unnecessary skin removal with scissors causes bleeding. These practices are not acceptable, and if they happen to you, you should know you are not in the right hands.
The Role of the Cuticle and the Dangers of Injury
The cuticle’s primary function is to act as a closed door protecting the matrix, which can be considered the womb of the natural nail plate. Forcibly lifting adhered, dry skin is as dangerous as tearing any other anatomical protective barrier of our body. Therefore, the best approach is to thoroughly soften dry, cracked cuticles before attempting to move or lift them. This can be done with water (never underestimate the softening power of water) or with a dedicated cuticle remover/softener. However, choose this product carefully to ensure it does not interfere with the perfect adhesion of nail enhancement materials in subsequent steps.
After an unsuccessful or experimental, inexperienced machine manicure, there may be unpleasant consequences – or rather, the client may face them: excessive traumatic injuries cause the affected skin area to respond with immediate inflammation. In the mildest case, visible redness appears, some tissue fluid may leak, and the injured tissues become sensitive to temperature changes. This can result in pain and a stinging sensation even during a warm hand wash. It cannot be emphasized enough that this is already an undesirable outcome of improper manicure! And this is just the mildest case. In more severe cases, injury to the dermis creates a real “gateway” for pathogens, making the affected area susceptible to a wide range of germs. In such cases, use an immediate capillary blood stopper, wait for the bleeding to stop, and treat and disinfect the wound.
The Advantages and Risks of Machine Manicure
Machine manicure, performed with modern, specialized drill bits, allows even thickened and adhered skin to be removed 100%. The nail bed area remains soft for longer, and unwanted skin re-adhesion to the nail plate can be delayed. The result is more aesthetic, precise, and much longer-lasting than traditional manual manicure. Nails prepared with a machine allow gel polish or nail enhancement products to be applied over a larger area, making regrowth less visible for longer.
However, machine manicure is more time-consuming and requires the use of several different drill bits on each nail. This is why it is crucial that only properly trained and experienced professionals perform it, as improper use of these tools can cause serious injuries. The skin around the nail is very sensitive and plays a protective role against infections – if injured, pathogens can easily enter, leading to serious infections, inflammation, or fungal diseases.
Infection Risks and Health Hazards
The risk of infection is significant, not just because of injuries. Micro-injuries created during manicure can allow bacteria and fungi to enter, causing inflammation of the nail bed or nail folds, or even fungal infections. Improperly disinfected tools further increase the risk of cross-contamination. Always check that the salon sterilizes its tools properly and that the technician wears gloves and a mask.
EU regulations are becoming increasingly strict regarding the ingredients of cosmetic products and tools. From September 2025, for example, it will be prohibited to sell gel polishes containing certain harmful substances (such as TPO or HEMA) in the European Union. This change is designed to protect clients’ health, and professionals must stay up to date with current regulations.
Practical Tips for Safe Manicure
Never practice with machine drill bits on a client or yourself! Before attending a course on this topic, ask the instructor about recommended ways to gain experience. There are alternative methods for gaining drill bit routine without putting clients’ skin at risk.Always make sure to soften the cuticle properly before moving it, and never use forceful, painful techniques. If you experience bleeding, pain, or any discomfort during a manicure, notify the professional immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
Clients should also be conscious when choosing a salon: check if the technician is properly qualified, if the salon is clean, and if hygiene standards are followed. For your own health, never hesitate to ask questions or even bring your own tools.
Conclusion:
Beauty Should Not Be DangerousMachine manicure can truly deliver spectacular, long-lasting, and aesthetic results – but only if performed professionally and with proper hygiene. Both professionals and clients must be aware of the potential dangers and do everything possible to avoid injuries and infections. Beauty should never come at the cost of health – make conscious choices and always prioritize safety!If something doesn’t feel right during your manicure, always trust your instincts and speak up – your health is your greatest asset.
