Healthy nails can be a great fashion accessory, and achieving the perfect at-home manicure is easier than you think. Here are some tips from KBShimmer to help you get salon-quality results right at home!
Tip 1: Skip the Water Before Painting
For the best results, apply nail polish before you shower. Water can temporarily flatten the natural curve of your nails, and as they dry and return to their shape, the polish can chip. Painting your nails before exposure to water will help your manicure last longer.
Tip 2: Polish Like a Pro in 4 Steps
To achieve a professional look, start with clean nails and a base coat. Follow these simple steps for a flawless finish:
- Place a small bead of polish near the cuticle, but don’t let it touch.
- Gently drag the bead down the center of your nail towards the tip.
- Go back to the bead near the cuticle and sweep it towards the left and right sides of the nail.
- Finally, swipe the brush along the very edge of the nail to seal it, preventing chips.
If needed, apply a second coat and finish with a quick-dry top coat for extra shine and durability.
Tip 3: Clean Up the Edges
For a neat and tidy look, use a small paintbrush dipped in acetone to clean up any stray polish on your skin. For larger mistakes, you can use white school glue as a barrier around your nails. Let it dry before painting, and then peel it off afterward to remove any mess along with the glue.
Tip 4: Ditch the Clippers
Instead of using nail clippers, which can cause splits and flaking, opt for a crystal nail file or emery board. File your nails in one direction to shorten and shape them without damaging the nail.
Tip 5: Say Goodbye to Stains
If your nails are stained from polish, chemicals, or smoking, there are simple solutions to brighten them up:
- Use whitening toothpaste and an old toothbrush to scrub your nails gently.
- Soak your nails in a solution of denture cleaning tablets and water.
- For tougher stains, mix one part hydrogen peroxide with five parts baking soda and a few drops of lemon juice to make a paste. Use an old toothbrush to scrub your nails with the paste, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes for stubborn stains.
As a last resort, lightly buff the top layer of your nails to remove stains, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can weaken your nails. The best way to prevent stains is by always using 1-2 coats of a quality base coat before applying polish.
By following these tips, you can keep your nails looking fresh, clean, and beautifully manicured!
