Russian manicure technique using an electric file for dry cuticle work distinguishes the nail service menu at Strand Nails, a compact walk-in-friendly storefront at 4918½ Newport Ave between Mallory's boutique and the Ocean Beach Antique Mall. The shop's full acrylic, dip powder, and gel extension program covers the pre-event prep that runs parallel to the cut-and-color work at OB Waves Salon further down the Newport corridor. Cash is the preferred tender, a detail worth knowing before walking in for a Saturday set ahead of dinner on the avenue. Manicure and pedicure combos with paraffin and hot-stone add-ons round out the spa-leaning side of the menu. Brow, lip, and facial waxing are not on the Strand service list, a deliberate scope choice — the hair-removal portion of a pre-event beauty day happens at Sunset Skin Waxing instead. The most technical work the shop takes on is custom nail art built over sculpted gel extensions, the kind of multi-hour session booked ahead of weddings and milestone events rather than walked in on a whim.