How to Apply Nail Polish Like a Pro

Nail polish is one of the easiest ways to change your look and it's a great way to boost your mood. Use nail polish that shimmers or contains glitter in shades such as orange, green, blue and hot pink when you need a fun look for nighttime. Or tone done the color with subtle shades of pink, cream and pastels that are ideal for the workplace. The key to gorgeous nails that will make others take notice is to apply your nail polish like a pro.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cotton pad Cotton ball Orangewood stick Lint-free towel Base coat Nail polish Top coat Cotton swab

1. Use a cotton pad or a cotton ball with non-acetone polish remover to remove old nail polish. Wrap an orangewood stick in cotton and push back your cuticles. Wash your hands to remove traces of dead skin cells, lotion residue and polish remover, which can prevent the nail polish from adhering properly. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel.

2. Open the base coat bottle and remove excess liquid from the brush by rotating it around the inside neck of the bottle. Lay your hand on a flat and steady surface. Position your brush against the center of the base of your nail. Apply the base coat by using a short, even stroke brushing from the base toward the tip. Use the same stroke to apply the base coat to the right and left side of the nail. Repeat the same technique on each finger and on your opposite hand. A base coat will fill in ridges and protect the nails from yellowing. Allow this coat to dry completely.

3. Roll the nail polish bottle slowly between your palms to mix the color without creating bubbles.

4. Open the nail polish bottle and press 2/3 of the length of the brush against one side of the bottle. Then press the entire brush against the opposite side of the bottle to shape the brush and remove excess liquid. This flat brush is the optimal shape to apply nail polish. There should be a small bead of nail polish on the brush which is just the right amount to color your nail. Lay your hand on a flat and steady surface.

5. Position your nail polish brush at the base of your nail in the center. Repeat the same technique that you used to apply the base coat to apply the nail polish. Always polish in one direction brushing from the base of your nail to the tip. Repeat the same technique to apply nail polish on your opposite hand.

6. Allow the first coat of polish to dry thoroughly before you start another coat. Avoid picking up objects because it's easy to smudge wet nail polish.

7. Apply another coat of nail polish if the first coat is too thin or if you desire a darker shade of color. Allow your nails to dry.

8. Apply a top coat, if needed, to protect your nail polish. A top coat will also give your nails a shiny and wet look.

9. Use a cotton swab moistened with non-acetone polish remover and carefully remove any nail polish that accidentally landed on your skin.

Resources

• Apply Finger Nail Polish Professionally
• Fashionista's Guide to a Perfect Manicure