What Is A 'Nail Facial' And Is It Really That Different From A Manicure?

To start, you'll want to seal your nails with a file, which is one of the most important steps in the "nail facial." Nail and beauty expert Leighton Denny tells Refinery29, "The unique surface of a crystal nail file is smooth, and it seals the edge of the nails so that any treatment you do next is going to stay inside." Nail sealing is gentler than filing; you only need to swipe the file across the tip of your nails to eliminate any edges and help them grow stronger.

Next, it's time to gently buff the nail to prep it to absorb the rest of the hydrating ingredients. Buffing is essential because it removes dead skin cells and leaves your nails shiny and glossy. Once you've buffed your nails, put a small bit of cleanser on them to remove any excess dirt and condition them with vitamin E (via The Zoe Report). Add a small dab of hand or nail cream and spread it across each nail for hydration. Once you moisturize, gently buff your nails with the smooth side to leave them even shinier (via Refinery29). Then, just as they would at the nail salon, add a tiny bit of cuticle oil to your nails and let it soak in. According to Denny, "You can never over-moisturize," said Denny, "but you can under-moisturize."