What is Japanese manicure?

If your For You page is anything like mine, you’re seeing a lot about gel nails and gel nail alternatives right now. As great as gel nails or BIABs are, there is definitely a commitment of time and money when it comes to this type of manicure. And with so many of us experiencing weak or brittle nails, more and more people are looking to nail strengtheners, cuticle oils and nail growth serums to keep their nails looking their best between our monthly nail appointments, or just to boost the health of their nails.

So, when I came across the Japanese manicure, which is said to be a low maintenance and repair manicure, I was interested. Scroll on for everything you need to know about this manicure.

What is Japanese manicure?

Instead of applying or curing polish to nails with a lamp, Japanese manicure focuses on polishing nail-nourishing elements into your bare nails to create a naturally glossy shine. Also known as a p.shine manicure, you can expect your nail tech to use nail-restoring ingredients (like wax, pearl powder, keratin, vitamins and minerals) that are applied as a paste to the nail plate before polishing the nails with a leather buffer. Then, a protective powder is applied to seal everything, resulting in a healthy, “your nails but better” shine.

While you won’t get the same colorful finish as traditional Instead of nail polish or gel formulas, you benefit from healthy, strong nails. Plus, buffing creates a glossy shine that won’t chip or fade. Instead, it grows along with your natural nails, so there is no obvious regrowth, peeling or nail damage as with Japanese mani.