A manicure is a cosmetic treatment for the care of hands and fingernails.http://www.thefreedictionary.com/manicure A standard manicure includes filing, shaping and applying polish to the nails, but there are also specialty manicures. A manicure treatment can be for just the nails, just the hands, or both. Treatments for hands often include soaking in a softening substance and application of hand lotion.http://www.nailcareguide.com/manicure.htm Manicures can also include a type of nail art process, using artificial tips, acrylics or artificial nail gels. Sometimes this involves painting pictures or designs on the nails, or applying imitation jewels or decals. A similar treatment performed on the feet is called a pedicure.http://www.nailcareguide.com/manicure.htm

Manicures are often performed by manicurists in beauty salons. Manicures are primarily to improve the look of hands and nails, but much concentration is now given to the proper removal of cuticles and application of different oils and creams to balance oil at the base of the nail. It is also for the cleaning and strengthening of nails. Manicures also aid in nail deformation and other damage such as fragile tips, cuts and nail splits. http://www.manicurespa.com/index.html Tools used during a manicure often include warm water and nail cutter, filer, buffers, cuticle knife and pusher. Common supplies used during manicures are cotton swabs, soap, cuticle remover, lotion for massage, cream and oil, nail cleaners, polishes, polish remover, sanitizing sprays and hand towels. http://www.nails-guide.com/manicure-2/#more-220

Manicures vary and some of the most common include the classic French Manicure (imitating perfect, natural nails), the Paraffin Wax Manicure (warm wax treatment for hands and nails), the Hot Stone Manicure (involving hot stone therapy) and the Luxury Manicure (paraffin wax and mittens used to soften hands and nails). Other treatments, such as the Spa Manicure, include components like moisturizing musk or aromatic salt treatment. http://www.beautytipshub.com/hand-care/manicure-types.html Manicure hand massages even help normal blood circulation, which enhances skin health and prevents wrinkles.http://www.beautytipshub.com/hand-care/manicure-types.html One such procedure is the hot oil manicure, used for the cleansing and softening of cuticles by application of oils such as olive, mineral, or those commercially-prepared. Dry skin and brittle nails are left soft and pliable after the process.http://www.nails-guide.com/manicure-2/#more-220