Title: Expert Tips for a Salon-Worthy Manicure at Home
Giving yourself a good manicure isn’t just about clipping and filing your nails; it’s about giving your hands some much-needed love. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve salon-like results at home and save some money in the process. Here are some expert recommendations for nails that look healthy and polished, even without polish.
1. Create a clean base:
Start by removing any old polish using an oil-based remover to prevent drying out your nails. Clean your hands with soap and water or a hand sanitizer, but avoid soaking your fingers in water as it can prolong drying time. Gently push back your cuticles for a more elongated and even look.
2. Trim and shape:
Use a clipper to take off length or simply file to refine your shape. Choose a glass file or sanitizable emery board with a grit level of 180 to 240 for natural nails. Shape your nails at a 45-degree angle and avoid sawing back and forth to prevent peeling and flaking.
3. Buff:
Lightly buff the surface of your nails with a three-way buffer to give them a natural shine and help polish adhere better. Move the buffer horizontally across the nail to smooth out ridges and polish creases where the sides of your nails meet your skin.
4. Smooth and soften your hands:
Exfoliate your hands twice a week to remove dead skin, then massage with a moisturizer, paying special attention to the cuticle area. Wipe away excess moisture from the nails before applying polish.
5. Apply polish, if desired:
For bare nails, add shine with a nourishing serum or oil. If painting your nails, apply a base coat, two thin coats of polish, and a clear topcoat for protection. Wipe excess polish off the brush to prevent drips and apply in three strokes for even coverage.
6. Maintain your manicure:
Moisturize regularly and apply cuticle oil as part of your nighttime routine to keep your hands healthy and soft. Refresh your manicure with a fresh topcoat if needed and always wear gloves when doing chores to protect your nails.
By following these expert tips, you can achieve a salon-worthy manicure at home and keep your nails looking healthy and polished.
