CosmoBiz Magazine May2020 | Page 16

Nails Nail Tips From the Beauty Experts at Beauty Press What is a Russian manicure? Russian manicures are quite popular at the moment - we’ve seen them on Instagram and Pinterest. The difference between a regular manicure and this one lies within the technique to work on the nail bed - the nail technician uses a device to gently peel all skin around the nail bed, resulting in a very clean finish. Essential- ly, this techniques removes the cuticle. On one hand, experts argue that this is not the best for the nails be- cause cuticles are usually pushed back, but not entirely cut or removed. It can cause damage and deformation to the nail. However, some clients who have experi- enced this technique, vouch for it and say their nails grow even stronger. Do you really need a nail polish with SPF? Have you ever heard of nail polishes with UV protec- tion? Yes, apparently your nails, much like your skin, need to be protected from the harmful sun rays. But to what extent is that really necessary. The nail itself is strong and touch, made out of a protein called al- pha-keratin and its function is to protect our fingertips, as well as the surrounding tissue from damaging. We usually buy nail polishes that protect the nail from chipping and breaking, or lacquers that are long last- ing. But our beauty experts claim that there is no actual benefit from the nail polishes with SPF. In fact, they may even be harmful. The substances used in the nail polishes, which filter out the UV rays, are still suspect- ed to trigger allergies or skin irritation, say medical experts.   16 C O S M O B I Z M A G A Z I N E What is a breathable nail polish?  Breathable nail polish has a different biochemical structure than traditional nail polish. Its molecular structure allows water and oxygen to penetrate directly to the nails and hydrate them, while also providing a coat of color. Some companies have even launched the breathable nail polishes addressing Muslim customers with a halal nail polish. It is a nail polish that can be worn during prayer.   Base and top coats – always necessary? For an optimal result base and top coat are of course compulsory. Since a base coat compensates for grooves and bumps, the color layer will be more even. The top coat seals the paint, makes it more durable and brings a mega shine. Some experts however say to put only top coat and lose the base coat. Of course, it also depends a bit on the products that you use and on your own preferences. If you want well-maintained nails, a healthy nail plate and long- lasting nail polish - then the answer is abso- lutely: YES! Put on a base coat as undercoat, enriched with nourishing nutrients protects the nail plate from discoloration. Top coat as a seal lays on the paint as a protective film and protects against scratching. Re- peated application after a few days refreshes the color again. So, if you do not want discolored nails, you should use a base coat. In addition, the nail polish will be more even in its surface and therefore glossier as it fills the grooves in the nail. Top coats are for extra shine and longer nail polish durability.