It was only a matter of time before the visually-startling Brazilian manicure exploded among the many mani trends. The messy-to-perfect nail polish technique is designed to make your nail polish last longer, and the photos are super attention-grabbing. This trend hasn’t just taken off, it’s skyrocketed. On TikTok alone, #brazilianmanicure has gained over 15.5 million views. If you’re unfamiliar with the trend, read ahead as we tap experts to help us explain exactly what it is.
What Is a Brazilian Manicure?
“A Brazilian manicure is all about a super clean final product, and the technique is a little different than a traditional mani,” explains Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood. During a Brazilian manicure, your nail tech will apply polish to the entire nail, as well as the skin surrounding it, before removing it from the skin when it dries down.” Hanna explains. “Polish is applied not just to the nail, but also onto the skin around it, and then cleaned off before it dries.”
“This method lets the polish reach closer to the cuticle, and that gives the illusion of a fresher manicure and more polished regrowth,” Hanna says. The Brazilian manicure is typically done using traditional, non-gel polish, since gel requires curing, meaning it won’t be easy to remove it from the skin around your nails once it dries down.
“Just keep in mind that since it’s not cured, it won’t last quite as long,” Hanna adds. “It’s perfect for anyone who wants a clean, close to the cuticle look with a quick turnaround.”
Is the Brazilian Manicure Right for You?
Like most beauty treatments, that depends on your preferences. This type of manicure is created using traditional nail polish, not gel, meaning you won’t get as much wear out of it as you would a gel manicure that can last up to four weeks. So if you’re okay with the paint sticking around for two weeks or less, then go for it.
Additionally, the Brazilian manicure involves the removal of the cuticle, and while that’s standard during manicures in most salons, it’s not something that dermatologists recommend.
Dermatologist Kendall Egan, MD explains that the cuticle plays a big role in our nail health. “Nails are made of keratin and can dry out, like your hair, with washing,” she explains. “Healthy cuticles will decrease the risk of bacteria and fungal nail infections.”
It’s even illegal in some states (including Alabama, Texas and California) to remove the cuticle without a medical license.
How Much Does a Brazilian Manicure Cost?
Since we’re talking about using regular lacquer with nail prep, the Brazilian manicure is one of the least costly options. Average prices seem to hover around $35.
How Long Does a Brazilian Manicure Last?
By applying the color as close to the cuticle as possible, the Brazilian manicure allows for a longer wear time of regular nail polish by disguising the grow-out period. That said, these aren’t as long-lasting or as durable as gel manicures, but you can expect to get more than seven days out of this mani. You can also extend the life of your manicure by using a top coat.
