Essentials of a Gentleman’s Manicure

It is not uncommon to see men with well kept nails in recent years. This is because they are realizing the importance of taking care of themselves and their grooming routines are now including having manicures. Shaking hands is inevitable and a good impression does not just include a firm handshake. Soft hands and clean nails go a long way in impressing a stranger, a prospective boss or even a date. A groom preparing to get married will find that such care of his hands will add confidence and complete his attire on the wedding day. The bride will also appreciate a man with soft hand and well kept nails as she looks forward for his caresses as they begin their marriage.

Well kept hands can be achieved from the luxurious manicure at a beauty salon which has to be supplemented with regular/daily care. Men who use their hands for heavy duty work are bound to develop calluses. These can be easily removed by gently scrubbing the area with a pumice stone.  Care should be taken so that excessive skin is not removed as this may be painful, however as much of the build-up as possible must be removed. One step that is necessary whether one is getting married or not is exfoliating the hands. This can be done at home using sugar and a moisturizer. This is rubbed gently on the hands and rinsed off with clean water. A moisturizer is then applied to further soften the hands and to seal in the moisture.

Cuticles should be taken care of to avoid painful tears. These should be pushed back slightly using a special stick after the application of a cuticle softener. This process also gives the nails a nice oval shape. Buffering is a process of gently rubbing the top of the nail to give it a shine. This is done using a buffer stick which is available at stores selling beauty products. The effect is not as pronounced as using clear nail polish but it lasts longer without the chipping too. Men’s nails should be kept short and even. Using a good quality and sharp clipper will do this easily at home. A nail file is used on the edges to even them out. Even short nails have to be cleaned under the edges as dirt can still lodge there and become unsightly and unhygienic. A nail brush used daily will ensure that the nails are clean always.

Lemon with its disinfecting and cleaning properties can be used on the hands by cutting it into half and twisting the hand in it. It cleans both the nails and the cuticles and leaves a fragrantly fresh scent. A gentleman’s manicure weekly, does not reduce masculinity in any way but actually boosts it in these times when it pays to look good. An upcoming wedding may be incentive enough to step up home care for nails and hands for the groom but the routine should be continued throughout the marriage.