The term "prescriptive manicure" is a buzz word in the industry right now but what is it?
A “prescriptive manicure” is a tailored nail treatment designed to address specific issues, needs or lifestyle of an individual. Unlike a standard manicure, which follows a general routine of shaping, buffing, and polishing, a prescriptive manicure is customised based on the condition and health of the client’s nails, cuticles, and skin.
Key Features of a Prescriptive Manicure:
1. Personalised Assessment: The nail technician begins by evaluating the client’s nails, cuticles, and skin to determine any particular concerns, such as dryness, brittleness, peeling, or other issues.
2. Customised Treatments: Based on the assessment, the technician selects products and treatments specifically suited to the client’s needs. For example, they might use strengthening treatments for weak nails, a simple gel polish for strong short nails or hard gel for a client wanting added length.
3. A Selection of Products: A prescriptive manicure often involves the use of a range of products such as rubber base, builder gel, hard gel or full cover tips that are chosen to address the client’s specific needs.
4. Aftercare Recommendations: At the end of the treatment, the technician usually provides personalised aftercare advice, which may include recommendations for home care products or routines to maintain nail and skin health, such as the use of cuticle oil.
Overall, a prescriptive manicure is a more focused and therapeutic approach to nail care, aiming to not only enhance the appearance of the nails but also improve their overall health and ensure that the product being applied is correct for that individual.
Too often these days, many nail technicians automatically grab for builder gel and that may not be the most suitable product for the client sat in front of them.
This being said, lets take a quick over view of what Nail Order products may suit different clients:
Standard base coat- so often too quickly overlooked, a standard base coat as part of a gel polish treatment is suitable for clients who need no added strength and have shorter nails that show no signs of damage. Bring back the base coat!
Rubber Base (Flexi Gel) - Perfect for cleints who have shorter natural nails with little free edge that want or need a little added strngth. In addition this would also be suitable for clients with longer natural nails that need a little added strength but still want some flexibility.
Builder Gel (AnGel) - A traditional type builder gel that will give a good bit of added strength, perfect for clients who have longer natural nails that dont need or want much flexibility.
Hard Gel (Dura Gel) - This is the gel you want to be grabbing for to create ultra strong overlays, especially good for clients who wants a sharp square as hard gel will retain its shape better than builder gel due to its tougher nature. In addition this is the gel you want to be using to add length by sculping or using tips.
Full Cover Tips (Xtensions) - If you are looking to create length without the hassle of refining or sculpting then these are your go to . Create aesthetic, lightweight, but strong extensions in a flash.
Check out our handy flow chart below:
