How to Apply Nail Coat for a French Manicure

The white nail tips of a French manicure are paired with a sheer polish to give nails a clean and natural look. Unlike a traditional manicure, the sheer coat is applied in a sideways stroke from the base of the nail up to the white tip without covering the tip.

Things You'll Need

• Sheer nail polish
• Cotton swab
• Nail polish remover

Instructions

1. Wait 10 minutes for the white nail tips to dry after shaping them before applying the nail coat.

2. Dip the nail brush into the polish and dab off any excess. The brush should have enough polish on it to apply an even coat without dripping. Apply the first coat of sheer polish in two to three strokes going sideways from the base of the nail up to the inside edge of the white nail tip.

3. Dry the nails for five minutes before applying a second coat of polish.

4. Use a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to clean any polish smudges on the cuticles or the skin along the sides of the nail.

5. Allow the nail coat to dry for 10 minutes before applying a clear top coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a sheer pink base coat to contrast with the white tips. The shade of pink you choose, from a classic ballet pink to a more beige color, will depend upon your natural skin tone and the amount of contrast you desire.

• Do not apply sheer coat over the white nail tip; a clear top coat will give the white tip added shine.