Question 1

Russian Manicure w/ Gel

Accepted Answer

Choose this if:
• Your nails are already strong
• You keep your nails short
• You only want color + shine
• You don’t need extra strength

Question 2

Russian Manicure w/ builder gel (BIAB)

Accepted Answer

Choose this if:
• Your nails break, peel, or bend
• You want to grow your natural nails
• You need more strength than regular gel
• You like a natural, clean look
• You want fills every 3–4 weeks

Question 3

Russian Manicure w/ Structured Gel

Accepted Answer

Choose this if:
• You want the strongest option
• You want perfect, smooth nail architecture
• You like medium–long nails
This service can include tips (no additional price) to extend your nails before building the structured layer.
Perfect for clients who want longer nails and maximum strength.

Question 4

Nail Art

Accepted Answer

Want nail art? When booking, please go to All Services → Add-Ons and choose the nail design option you’d like. This ensures I have the right time reserved for your appointment.

Question 5

What is a Smart Dry Pedicure?

Accepted Answer

A Smart Dry Pedicure is a modern, waterless pedicure that focuses on precision, sanitation, and long-lasting results.
Instead of soaking the feet, I work on completely dry skin using advanced techniques like:
• e-file cuticle cleaning
• targeted callus exfoliation
• precision shaping
• controlled product application

It allows me to treat exactly what your skin actually needs without the swelling that water causes.

Question 6

Why We Work Dry

Accepted Answer

Traditional pedicures use water, which softens and swells the skin. That makes it easy to over-cut cuticles, over-buff calluses, and weaken the nail plate, it also reduces polish longevity.
In a Smart Dry Pedicure, we use professional pododiscs. A high-precision e-file disc system that gently removes hardened skin in thin, even layers.  Smart-oil treatment is included at the end which leaves the feet feeling nourished.

Question 7

What does the service include?

Accepted Answer

A Smart Dry Pedicure typically includes:
• shaping + cleaning of the natural nail
• dry e-file cuticle removal
• targeted callus smoothing
• exfoliation of tough areas (no over-thinning)
• Smart Oil application for hydration and softness
• gel or regular polish

Every step is controlled and tailored to YOUR feet.

Question 8

Does a Smart Dry Pedicure Hurt?

Accepted Answer

No!  A Smart Dry Pedicure should not hurt. The entire service is designed to be gentle and controlled. Because we work on dry skin with pododiscs the exfoliation is smooth and precise.  If you ever feel discomfort, you can tell me and I’ll adjust the pressure or technique immediately.  The goal is a clean, safe, comfortable result.

Question 9

What is a Russian manicure?

Accepted Answer

A Russian manicure is an advanced dry e-file technique that focuses on precision and cleanliness. Instead of soaking the nails, I use specialized bits to gently lift and remove dead cuticle skin, clean around the nail, and create a smooth, perfectly prepped base.

Question 10

Why is it more effective than a regular manicure?

Accepted Answer

Because every step is detailed and deliberate:
•	The cuticle area is cleaned more thoroughly
•	Gel/BIAB adheres better to a dry, clean surface
•	The finished look sits perfectly under the cuticle for that “fresh for weeks” look
•	Results last longer with less lifting or chipping

It’s the technique behind the flawless, clean-nail aesthetic you see online.

Question 11

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

No!  A proper Russian manicure should feel gentle and comfortable.
There should be:
•	no burning
•	no cutting into live skin
•	no pain

If anything feels off, you can always let me know mid-service!

Question 12

How long does it last?

Accepted Answer

Usually 3+ weeks, depending on your nail growth and lifestyle.

Question 13

Will this damage my nails?

Accepted Answer

No. Incorrect prep or over-filing can cause damage, but I work carefully to keep your natural nails strong. The combination of clean prep + gel helps protect the nail and support healthy growth.

Nailsbyvladlenaa

Russian Manicure Specialist | Richmond VA

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