Scientists have revealed why getting your nails done is good for you.
Research has long shown that a trip to the manicurist results in feelings of relaxation and euphoria, and significantly reduces anxiety.
Previous studies have suggested that these feel-good effects come from the mood-boosting brain chemicals that are released when we come into contact with human touch.
But new findings appear to show that health benefits are due to something entirely different.
It is in fact the result of ‘superficial self-disclosure’ – otherwise known as the light-hearted chit-chat you have at the nail salon, according to a new study.
Researchers from two universities in Japan surveyed 500 women to discover the psychological effects of having your nails done.
Study author Atsushi Kawakubo, an associate professor at Saitama Gakuen University, told PsyPost: ‘Our research suggests that engaging in salon nail care, coupled with light self-disclosure, can provide a positive boost to one’s psychological state’
Around 300 women regularly visited a salon, and the rest did their nails at home, or not at all.
Participants then rated the extent to which they experienced various emotions and attitudes during a nail care session on a four-point scale from ‘not at all’ to ‘a great deal.’
Women who went for manicures were also asked about the content and quality of their conversations with manicurists and fellow customers.
Results showed that those who got their nails done at a salon experienced significantly more positive emotions such as relaxation, compared to those who did it themselves at home.
Most intriguing, the topic of conversation with others during the appointment impacted participants’ mood.
Superficial self-disclosure, – which researchers defined as discussions about hobbies and daily life – was associated with increased positive emotions, but deeper self-disclosure, to do with negative personality traits and life difficulties, had a negative impact on certain psychological outcomes.
Study author Atsushi Kawakubo, an associate professor at Saitama Gakuen University, told PsyPost: ‘Our research suggests that engaging in salon nail care, coupled with light self-disclosure, can provide a positive boost to one’s psychological state.
‘This practice offers a tangible way for individuals to promote their mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the potential benefits of sharing personal thoughts in a comfortable setting.’
The researchers highlight that more research is needed to draw firm conclusions – here was no control group, and the data was self-reported.
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