How to Make Your Manicure Last

Extend the Life of Your Manicure

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 180/240 Grit File
• Nail Surface Cleanser (i.e. OPI Chip Skip)
• Base Coat
• Nail Enamel/Lacquer
• Top Coat
• Cuticle Oil

1. 1) gently push back your cuticles, removing any excess skin from the surface of the nail

2. 2) lightly buff the surface oils off of the nail with a 180/240 grit file, something very smooth

3. 3) clean the surface oils off of the nails

4. 4) always remember to apply a base coat, 2 coats of polish, and a top coat in thin layers allowing each layer to dry

Tips & Warnings

• In the event that you tend to use your hands and nails quite a bit during the day, you can always add an extra layer of base coat before you polish, and/or apply an extra layer of top coat. Try to keep your hands out of water for extended periods of time. If you have had them soaking in water for whatever reason (dishes, cleaning, hot tub), keep in mind that your nails are like sponges and have expanded and have become more pliable after soaking. This leaves you susceptible to your nails bending, and the bond between the natural nail and base coat becomes susceptible to separation. If you have to have your hands in water, first apply a cuticle oil around the cuticle and also up underneath the nail to act as a water barrier. If you have had your nails professionally polished and want to make the most of your manicure, apply an extra layer of top coat to your nails every 2-3 days, in addition to using the cuticle. And lastly, most importantly, keep your hands and nails away from the chemicals. If you wouldn't wash your hair with it, you probably don't want your hands soaking in it.