Soft hands, healthy cuticles and even nail growth - well-groomed hands and nails ensure an attractive appearance, but require some care. Hand and nail massages are relaxing and are a great way to carefully massage the nourishing oils and creams into the skin, explains nail designer Stefanie. The massage promotes blood circulation - nails and hands can absorb the nourishing substances and thus regenerate and become stronger. Regular hand and nail massages are particularly suitable if your nails grow particularly slowly, for example due to a hormonal change in your body or due to taking medication. Thanks to the improved care, the nails can grow back faster and stronger.

Why is hand and nail massage important in the nail salon?

After washing, filing and disinfecting, the customer's hands may be dry, then it is recommended to moisturize the skin and nails again with nourishing creams and oils at the end of the treatment, explains nail designer Stefanie. Especially after longer treatments, for example after gel modeling or applying nail art, the customer's hands are usually tense, so a soothing massage can be used to relax them, says the expert.

When should you avoid a hand and nail massage?

In general, it is important to ask the customer before a massage whether they would like it, explains the nail designer. Most customers love a relaxing massage at the end of their nail treatment, but some don't have time or don't like massages - as a nail designer you should definitely take this into account, says Stefanie. Before every massage, you should also look carefully to see whether there are partially healed injuries to your hands, nails or cuticles. Here you should ask whether the areas are still too painful for a massage. You should generally avoid bleeding wounds during the massage so as not to contaminate them. Before every treatment and massage, it is important to ask new customers whether they have allergies or other illnesses, such as neurodermatitis - in this case, a hand massage with care products often has to be avoided, warns our beautician.

• Ask if massage is desired
• Injuries to hands, nails or cuticles
• Ask about allergies, neurodermatitis and other illnesses

Which oils for hand and nail massage?

You can use a high-quality hand cream or special nail oils for hand and nail massage. Nail oil rollers are suitable for on the go, as they make it easy to apply the care and provide a little massage at the same time. Cuticle care pens that easily fit in your handbag are suitable for the office. Our insider tip from nature is coconut oil, which is particularly rich and nourishes your nails well. It gives the cuticles elasticity and strength. In the case of minor inflammation around the nail, it supports regeneration. If you don't have this on hand, you can also use olive oil.

How to do hand and nail massage correctly – 3 tips from nail designer Stefanie:

Our beautician and nail expert Stefanie has three tips that you can use to make your hand and nail massage pleasant for your customers.

1. Choose high-quality products
Use high-quality products for hand and nail massage. I always have a few creams and oils to choose from, so there is a variance from fairly neutral to more intense scents. In summer I like to offer fruity notes like orange and a cream that absorbs quickly. In winter, the product may be richer to protect hands from cold and wind. Here, for example, I rely on scents such as vanilla and rose.

2. Before the massage
Before you start the massage, you should ask your customer whether a massage is even desired. You can show her the care products you would use in advance and give her the opportunity to smell them so she can decide which cream or oil she would like.

3. Respond to the customer
You should definitely make sure that you do not use too much pressure during the massage - it is best to ask your customer whether the pressure is comfortable or should be changed.