How to Get the Perfect Manicure at Home
Many women like nothing more than to get their nails done at a salon for the perfect manicure. However, some may prefer to do their nails at home for a variety of reasons. It can take time and patience to get it right but once you have mastered the technique it will be worth it.
Use the steps below to get salon looking nails at home for a fraction of the cost:
Step 1: Use polish remover to clean nails
Get yourself a good quality nail polish remover as this will remove not only all the polish, it will take off any glitter too. Even if you do not have any nail polish on, it is still good to use polish remover to clear away any oils or dirt, but at the same time a good quality remover will contain essential nutrients that will strengthen and moisturise your nails and cuticles.
Consider an acetone-based remover that contains hydrating oils, such as, aloe Vera or lavender. These nail varnish removers deal with the drying effects of acetone. They reduce the strong odour of the nail varnish remover.
Step 2: Trim nails, file and buff
Depending on how long you like to leave your nails, you may want to trim your nails first. Once trimmed, gently file your nails to the shape you want (avoid using a metal nail file as as they are harsh on your nails and even split them, depending on how strong your nails are). To do this move the file in one direction. Once done use a buffer to lightly buff the tops and sides of your nails create a smooth surface.
Step 3: Push your cuticles back
The purpose of cuticles is to protect your nails from bacteria and keep them soft, therefore do not cut them. Use a cuticle stick to gently push them back.
Step 4: Exfoliate hands
Use a moisturising scrub to exfoliate the hands, wrists and forearms. Ensure the underside of your nails are clean too. Use your cuticle stick to do this. Once done wash your hands and dry thoroughly.
Step 5: Moisturise hands and cuticles
Moisturise your hands ahead of painting your nails. Use a little nail polish remover to ensure the nails are clear of any moisturiser.
Step 6: Apply a base coat
By applying a base coat to your nails, it will help to not only hydrate the nails, but will also protect them from chipping. Wait a couple of minutes before applying the next coat.
Step 7: Paint the first colour coat
Now it is the turn of your favourite colour or a bold new colour. When painting your nails, make sure the brush reaches down to the cuticle and the corners of your nails. Keep this layer thin by not overloading the brush and using too many strokes. They key to ensure good coverage is to use the three stripe method – first stripe down the middle of the nail, then the second and third stripes go on either side of the middle stripe.
Step 8: Paint your second colour coat
Wait for another two minutes before applying the second colour coat. Again keep it nice and thin. Bear in mind sheer or light shades may need a third coat for good coverage.
Step 9: Lastly the topcoat
The topcoat is for protection. It seals the colour on your nails, stops them from chipping and gives your nails a nice shine.
Step 10: Tidy any mistakes and let your nails dry
There may have been some wobbly moments during application or some mistakes. These now need to be remedied. Soak some cotton wool in nail polish remover and wrap it around the end of your cuticle stick. Use this to remove any untidy bits by moving it around your nails. Otherwise use a folded nail polish remover pad to create a triangle for better precision. Once done, let your nails dry naturally and there you have it, a perfect manicure.
