How to Give Yourself a Manicure

Manicured nails are part of a finished look for many women. But with a rocky economy, personal perks like trips to the nail salon can be one of the first items on the budget chopping block. Luckily you don't have to journey to the local nail place to pamper your hands. Do it yourself at home.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton Swabs
• Cuticle Creams
• Hand And Body Lotion
• Manicure Kits
• Nail Brushes
• Nail Buffers
• Nail Cleaners
• Nail Clippers
• Nail Files
• Nail Polish Remover
• Nail Polishes
• Nail Strengthening Polish

Instructions

1. 

   Remove old nail polish thoroughly.

2. Soak hands in warm water for 10 or 15 minutes. Dry hands.

3. 

   File nails in one direction only. Avoid using a seesaw motion.

4. 

   Push back cuticles. Use a cuticle moisturizer if they do not push back easily after soaking.

5. 

   Massage your hands. Use a moisturizing lotion. Use an exfoliating lotion if your skin is dry and/or roughened.

6. 

   Apply a base coat. Allow it to dry.

7. Apply polish. Clean any stray marks with a cotton swab dipped in polish remover.

8. Add a second coat for deeper color.

9. Finish the manicure with a top coat of clear polish.

Tips & Warnings

• Put your hands in a basin or sink full of ice-cold water if you need your nails to dry in a hurry.

• Avoid cutting your cuticles with scissors or nail clippers.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish