Things You'll Need:
- nail file
- orange stick
- cuticle nipper
- small bowl for soaking
- liquid soap
- hand cream or lotion
- base coat polish
- favorite color polish
- top coat
-
Step 1
Begin by removing any polish from nails and washing hands thoroughly. Any oils or residue on nails may prevent polish from lasting. Fill small bowl with warm water and small amount of soap, any will do. Soak nails for approximately 2 minutes. Using orange stick, which can be found in any drug store, gently push back cuticles. Nipping in one direction, use cuticle nippers to cut off only the excess skin.
-
Step 2
File nails into desired shape, be careful to file in one direction to avoid cracking or chipping nails. The most natural shape is achieved by mirroring the shape of the cuticle. After filing, apply base coat to nails. Apply by making one stroke down the middle of the nail and then move to the sides.
-
Step 3
After base coat, apply your favorite shade of polish. Apply polish the same way you applied base coat, down the middle and work to the sides. Applying 2 coats of polish will ensure ideal coverage and shade. Allow polish to dry for several minutes. Apply top coat to nails in the same fashion.
-
Step 4
I prefer to allow nails to dry thoroughly, which should take about 10 minutes to be completely dry, before applying moisturizer. As stated previously, any excess oils may prevent polish from lasting. Pamper yourself and massage a generous amount og moisturizer into hands and cuticles. Enjoy your beautiful at home manicure!
