Professional Treatment of Lateral Nail Folds – Step by Step

The lateral nail folds – also called lateral nail walls – are a vital yet often overlooked part of a professional manicure. Their proper and hygienic care is essential not only for the appearance of the nails but also for their long-term health.

At the MONLIS School in Munich, the leading training center for manicure and pedicure, we teach future nail professionals how to safely clean, care for, and protect the lateral nail folds using internationally recognized methods and modern techniques.

Why Are the Lateral Nail Folds So Important?

The lateral nail folds run along both sides of the nail and serve as protection against external influences. However, they are also areas where dirt, dead skin cells, dust particles, and bacteria often accumulate. If not properly treated, this can lead to:

• Infections and inflammation

• Painful cracks and hangnails

• Damaged nail structure

• Nail growth disorders

• An overall neglected appearance

MONLIS School Method: Step-by-Step Treatment

1. Preparation and Hygiene

Before the treatment, hands and tools are thoroughly disinfected. At MONLIS School, we emphasize correct hygiene practices, including the use of professional disinfectants and disposable gloves.

2. Softening the Skin

The skin around the nail, especially at the sides, is softened using a warm hand bath or a professional remover gel. This helps loosen dead skin and makes the treatment gentler.

3. Gently Pushing Back the Skin

With a pusher or orange stick, the cuticle is gently pushed back. Particular care is taken in the lateral folds, where sensitivity and precision are essential to avoid injury.

4. Cleaning the Lateral Folds

Using fine drill bits or specially designed tools, the area along the nail folds is cleaned thoroughly but gently. Students at MONLIS School are trained to remove only dead skin without irritating living tissue.

5. Polishing and Aftercare

After cleaning, the area is gently polished using a buffer or soft drill attachment. The treatment is completed with the application of nourishing nail oil to calm the skin and prevent inflammation.

Common Mistakes – and How We Avoid Them

At MONLIS School, we teach not only proper technique but also awareness of frequent mistakes:

• Cutting or drilling too deep into the skin

• Using dull or inappropriate tools

• Skipping hygienic preparation

• Neglecting aftercare with nourishing products

• Treating too often or too aggressively

Our training programs aim to avoid these risks and ensure safe, professional, and lasting results.

Who Should Learn This Technique?

Professional treatment of the lateral nail folds is ideal for:

• Clients with dry, sensitive, or damaged cuticles

• People prone to nail inflammation

• Anyone seeking clean and neat hands

• Beginners looking for a solid foundation in nail care

• Professionals wanting to refine and perfect their skills

MONLIS School Training: Your Path to Perfection

Our manicure courses include:

• Theoretical anatomy of the nail and surrounding skin

• Practical training on live models

• Safe use of tools and e-files

• Hygiene standards in line with German regulations

• Client consultation and home care advice

Graduates of MONLIS School leave with a deep understanding of nail anatomy, confident hands, and the ability to deliver expert results to even the most demanding clients.

Treating the lateral nail folds is a key element of every professional manicure. At MONLIS School in Munich, we teach more than just technique – we teach precision, hygiene, and holistic care for long-term nail health and beauty.

Whether you're starting your career or refining your craft, MONLIS School is your destination for high-level training in manicure and pedicure.