Caring for your nails doesn’t have to mean expensive trips to the salon. In fact, the best at-home manicures can save you money and give you the same beautiful look you get from a professional. With the right tools and a few simple tips, you can have salon-worthy nails in the comfort of your own home.
Start with Cleanliness
Cleanliness is the most important element of any manicure, so make sure your tools, nails, and hands are all clean before you begin. Start by cleaning any dirt and excess oils from your nails using a nail brush or a clean cotton swab dipped in polish remover. Keep your nails dry, and then clip and file them in the desired shape. Round nails generally look the best, but square and almond shapes may suit you better.
Cuticle Care
Cuticles should be gently pushed back, not cut. Cuticles are important as they keep bacteria and debris from entering the nail bed. After pushing back your cuticles, use cuticle cream or oil to hydrate and protect them.
Prepare Your Polishes
Invest in a couple of quality polishes. Always start with two coats of base coat. This will strengthen your nails and give the rest of your manicure something to stick to. Use a topcoat for extra protection and shine, and make sure to re-apply the topcoat every couple of days to keep your nails looking their best.
Polish with Precision
Apply the polish with a light pressure, brushing from the base of the nail to the tip in one continuous stroke. Use the tip of the brush to make sure you get a thin line of polish near the cuticle. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Time to Accessorize
Once your nails are completely dry, you can get creative if you like. Many at-home manis don’t require any extra steps, but if you feel like jazzing it up, you have lots of options. Painting on stripes or polka dots is a classic choice, and you can also add small charms or stickers.
The Finishing Touch
For a beautiful, long lasting manicure, add another coat of topcoat once you’re done with your decorations. Then all that’s left is to admire your handiwork. You can show off your awesome nails all week long, knowing that you’ve saved yourself time and money in the process.
Caring for Your Manicure
The key to a long-lasting manicure is to avoid prolonged water exposure. This can weaken the polish and cause it to chip prematurely, so make sure to wear gloves when you’re washing dishes, doing housework, or cleaning your car. You should also use hand moisturizer frequently to protect your nails, and reapply your topcoat every two to three days.
At-home nail care has never been easier. With the right tools and a few simple tips, you can pamper your nails and stay salon-fresh all week long. With a little practice, you can become a pro in no time. So go ahead, get your nails polished and show off your knack for manicures.
