How to do a manicure or pedicure

Tips for painting your nails or toes without smudges and without chipping.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• base coat, nail polish, top coat, buffer, nail file

1. 

   Wash nails or toes and make sure all nail polish from your last manicure or pedicure is off. Use polish remover if you still have on polish.

2. 

   Buff your nails from side to side using a buffer. This helps smooth and prepare the nail for the polish.

3. 

   Start with a base coat to fill in the "ridges" which also helps the nail polish not stain your nails.

4. 

   After the base coat has dried, apply the nail polish down the length of the nail towards the tip in smooth brushes. Opi makes a fabulous selection of colors, such as Tutti Fruti Tonga and Malaga Wine. Once the nail polish has tried, apply top coat with the same strokes.

Tips & Warnings

• Do two coats of the nail polish and follow each day with a top coat to prevent chips.

• Be sure to flash your pretty fingers at everyone you know.

• Use nail polish without acetone as it can dry and crack the nails.