Maniküür

Maniküür is a cosmetic procedure for nail and hand care. It involves cleaning, shaping, and decorating the fingernails, as well as moisturizing the hands. The term maniküür originates from the Latin words manus, meaning "hand," and cura, meaning "care."

A standard maniküür typically begins with the removal of any old nail polish. The nails are then soaked in warm water, often with added essential oils or salts, to soften the cuticles and skin. Following the soak, the cuticles are pushed back or trimmed. The nails are then filed and shaped to the desired length and form, such as square, round, or oval. After shaping, the hands may be exfoliated with a scrub to remove dead skin cells. A hand massage is often included to improve circulation and moisturize the skin. Finally, nail polish or other decorative elements can be applied.

Variations of maniküür exist, including French maniküür, which features a natural-looking base color with white tips, and gel maniküür, which uses a gel polish cured under a UV or LED lamp for increased durability and shine. Paraffin wax treatments are also a popular addition, providing deep hydration to the hands. While primarily focused on aesthetics, maniküür also contributes to overall hand hygiene and can help prevent nail and skin issues.