Your Complete Guide to a Manicure

Hands tell a lot about us before we even speak, which is why manicures have become an essential part of modern self-care. Whether you’re seeking a polished, professional look or restorative hand therapy, a manicure offers far more than colour alone. This is the ultimate guide to manicures, so you can choose the perfect treatment for your lifestyle.

What Exactly Is a Manicure?

A manicure is a therapeutic hand and nail treatment that involves cleansing the hands, cuticle care, gentle exfoliation, and even polish application if you choose.

How a Manicure Works

A typical manicure includes the following steps:

• Nail Shaping & Filing: To create your preferred nail silhouette.

• Cuticle Care: Softening and gently pushing back cuticles for healthier nail growth.

• Exfoliation & Massage: Boosting circulation, releasing tension, and softening the skin.

• Polish or Treatment Application: From natural buffing to gel or colour finishes.

• Moisturisation: Locking in hydration for smooth, nourished hands.

Types of Manicures

1.    Classic Manicure

The gold standard in nail care, a classic manicure focuses on nail health and natural beauty.

• Includes: Nail shaping, cuticle work, buffing, massage, and polish.

• Ideal for: Professionals, natural-nail clients, and manicure first-timers.

• Benefit: Enhanced nail strength, brightened appearance, elegant simplicity.

2.    Gel Manicure

Gel polish is cured under UV/LED light, offering exceptional durability. The benefits of a gel manicure include:

• Chip-resistant for up to two weeks

• High-gloss shine

• Perfect for busy schedules

Ideal for: Travellers, corporate professionals, or special events.

3.    Acrylic Nails

Acrylic enhancements combine liquid monomer and powder to create strong, custom-shaped nails. The benefits of acrylic nails include:

• Durable and long-lasting

• Ideal for length and dramatic shape

• Excellent base for intricate nail art

Ideal for: Bold styles, added length, or transformative nail design.

4.    Hard Gel Nails

Often referred to as Russian Manicures, this technique uses hard gel and an e-file. The benefits of hard gel nails include:

• Lightweight and flexible

• Natural, thin appearance

• High gloss finish

• Strengthens natural nails

Ideal for: Clients seeking durability without heaviness.

5.    Dip Powder Manicure

A modern alternative that sits between gel and acrylic. The benefits of the dip powder manicure include:

• No UV light required

• Less harsh chemicals

• Strong yet lightweight

Ideal for: clients wanting long wear without gel or acrylic.

Benefits of Regular Manicures

There is far more to a manicure than beautiful nails. When performed consistently and intentionally, manicures become a restorative ritual that supports both physical wellness and emotional wellbeing. Some of the key advantages include:

1.    Healthier Nails

Regular manicures help maintain the structural integrity of your nails. Consistent trimming, gentle cuticle work, and deep nourishment prevent common concerns such as breakage, peeling, dryness, and hangnails. Over time, this routine care strengthens the nail bed and promotes smoother, healthier nail growth.

2.    Boosted Circulation

The massage component of a manicure is more than a relaxing moment; it stimulates blood flow to the hands and nail matrix, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery. This improved circulation supports cell regeneration, encourages faster nail growth, and contributes to overall hand vitality.

3.    Stress Relief

The slow, sensory-focused process creates a rare moment of pause in a fast-paced world, helping to reduce stress and calm the nervous system. This mindful break can uplift your emotional well-being and offer a gentle reset for the mind.

4.    Youthful, Hydrated Hands

Our hands are one of the first places to show signs of ageing. Through exfoliation, hydration, and targeted treatment, regular manicures soften the skin, improve texture, and reduce visible dryness and fine lines. The result is hands that feel nourished and visibly rejuvenated.

5.    Confidence & Refinement

Beautifully groomed nails elevate your appearance and subtly enhance personal confidence. Whether you prefer a clean, natural look or a glossy, polished finish, well-maintained hands project care and quiet sophistication.

How Often Should You Get a Manicure?

For optimal nail health and appearance:

• Classic Manicure: every 1–2 weeks

• Gel Manicure: every 2–3 weeks

• Acrylic/Hard Gel: every 3–4 weeks (for infills)

How Much Does a Manicure Cost?

The pricing of any manicure depends on the type of manicure and the chosen finish. To give you some idea, typical pricing ranges are:

• Basic spa manicure: from R300

• Luxury manicure: up to R500

Experience Manicure Excellence at The Hyding

At The Hyding, every manicure is a chance to restore and elevate your self-care practice. Our therapists combine precision and world-class products to create a refined nail experience that aligns with our holistic approach to wellness and longevity.

Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, refreshing your look, or nurturing yourself through quiet ritual, your hands deserve the attentiveness only a premium wellness retreat can offer.

Book your manicure at The Hyding and rediscover the simple beauty of well-cared-for hands.