Professional manicures can transform ordinary-looking hands into dazzling hands attractive enough to star in their own commercials. That’s why we all love getting a manicure, right? But did you know manicures provide health benefits for your hands and nails as well?

4 Benefits of Manicures You Probably Don’t Know About

1. Cleans and Exfoliates Skin

When done expertly, manicures include a deep cleaning of your nails and using lotions to exfoliate dead skin cells and grime. Exfoliation keeps your hands feeling smooth and may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Supports Nail Health

A skilled manicurist can detect signs of a fungal nail infection before most people know they have a fungal infection.

If you are diabetic, have a circulatory disease, regularly wear artificial nails, have sweaty hands and/or feet or swim frequently in public pools, you may be at risk of developing a fingernail or toenail fungal infection.

3. De-stress with Manicures

Having your hands massaged is just as relaxing and soothing as having your back or feet massaged. In addition, study after study has shown that skin-to-skin contact with another person (known as the “science of touch) is one of the best ways to enhance your sense of well-being and health.

4. Manicures Do Wonders for Your Self-Esteem

Anytime you pamper yourself with a new hair style, a rejuvenating facial or other spa-style service, you always emerge feeling like you could take on the world.