Who are these nail courses in NYC best for?

These courses are ideal for complete beginners who want to start a nail tech career, as well as working nail technicians who want to upgrade to Russian E-File manicure, sculpting, and pedicure techniques for a more premium client base.

How long are the courses?

The Basic Manicure Course runs for 3 days, the Advanced Manicure Course is 1+ days depending on your level, the Sculpting Course is 2 days, and the Pedicure Course is typically 2 days.

Do I need experience to enroll?

No experience is required. Beginners can start with the Basic Manicure or Pedicure course. Working nail technicians can choose the Advanced Manicure or Sculpting courses to upgrade their existing skills.

Will these courses alone give me a New York nail license?

No. These courses provide a private Certificate of Mastery. To legally work as a nail specialist in New York, you must also obtain the official New York State Nail Specialty license from the state.

What makes Russian E-File different?

Russian E-File is a dry, machine-based technique that allows for highly precise cuticle cleaning, cleaner application under the cuticle, longer-lasting gel wear, and safer callus reduction compared to traditional soaking methods.

DIY Russian-Style Manicure on Natural Nails: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Dec 2

Written By Margarita Yutsaytis

This tutorial shows how to perform a clean Russian-style manicure on natural nails using an e-file, scissors and proper prep. It’s filmed on real hands and is suitable for beginners, nail enthusiasts, and nail tech students who want to practice safe, detailed cuticle work at home.

The goal of this routine is not to apply gel or color, but to create healthy, neat natural nails with a smooth surface and perfectly groomed cuticles - a great base for future gel polish or a beautiful bare “your nails but better” look.

Tools and products you will need

Orange wood stick or gentle cuticle pusher
Nail file (around 180 grit) to shape the free edge
Soft buffer block to smooth the surface
Baby powder or similar loose powder
E-file with a fine flame bit (red band recommended)
Sterilized cuticle scissors
Cuticle remover or softener
Lint-free wipes + dehydrator
Cuticle oil
Soft brush

Pushing back the cuticle with an orange wood stick

Step 1 - Gently push back the cuticle

Start on clean, dry hands. Use an orange wood stick to gently push back the cuticle and open the cuticle pocket. Move slowly along the nail plate, lifting thin dead skin. This prepares the area for detailed e-file work.

Shaping the natural nail free edge with a file

Step 2 - Shape the free edge with a nail file

Using a 180-grit file, refine the free edge. File gently and choose the shape you prefer: round, soft square or squoval. Avoid harsh side-to-side sawing - use smooth, controlled motions to prevent splitting.

Lightly buffing the natural nail surface with a buffer block

Step 3 - Lightly buff the nail surface

Use a soft buffer block to remove shine and smooth uneven spots. Do not thin the nail - only lightly refine the surface, especially around the cuticle area where dry skin may remain.

Baby powder applied to natural nails to absorb moisture

Step 4 - Remove moisture with powder

Lightly apply baby powder to absorb moisture and highlight imperfections. Brush away the excess. Powder helps you see dry cuticle and areas that need additional refinement.

E-file with a fine flame bit prepared for cuticle work

Step 5 - Prepare your e-file

Install a fine flame bit (red band recommended). Use low to medium speed for full control. Make sure the skin and nail are fully dry before starting e-file work.

Cleaning the cuticle area with an e-file flame bit

Step 6 - Clean the cuticle area with the e-file

Gently lift and remove dead cuticle with the flame bit using light pressure. Keep the bit moving and avoid staying in one spot. Repeat on both sides to create a clean, even cuticle line.

Trimming lifted cuticle using sterilized cuticle scissors

Step 7 - Trim lifted cuticle with sterilized scissors

Switch to sterilized cuticle scissors and trim only the lifted dry tissue. Use smooth, continuous motions for a clean, professional cut. Avoid cutting living skin.

Applying cuticle remover around the nail to soften skin

Step 8 - Apply cuticle remover (optional)

Apply a small amount of cuticle remover to soften any remaining dry skin. Massage gently and remove with a lint-free wipe. The nail plate should be perfectly clean.

Dehydrating the nail plate with cleanser and a lint-free pad

Step 9 - Dehydrate the nail plate

Use nail cleanser or a dehydrator to remove oils and residue. This ensures a clean surface - ideal if you apply gel afterward, and perfect for a natural finish.

Finished natural nails with nourishing cuticle oil applied

Step 10 - Finish with nourishing cuticle oil

Massage a few drops of cuticle oil into the skin to restore comfort and hydration. The nails will look naturally glossy and healthy - the signature of clean Russian-style prep.

Watch the full manicure tutorial

Want to master Russian Manicure professionally? Explore our in-person manicure and pedicure courses at Mars Nails School in Manhattan, NYC.

manicurediyrussian manicure

Margarita Yutsaytis