Listen ladies….
I’m a big believer in pretty nails. ESPECIALLY if you have a gorgeous engagement ring on your finger. Now, I know there’s not always time to hit up the salon for a mani, but ladies, there is NO reason an at-home manicure can’t look just as fierce!! So don’t worry if you don’t have the moolah or can’t make an appointment. Follow these simple mani tips and tricks and you’ll have beautiful nails in no time!!
via Freenewfasiondesign.com
MANI 101
Cuticle Care:
Every time you shower, gently push back and scrape your cuticles. They will be soft and easy to tame. If you give them attention every time you shower they will be easy to maintain. However, if you need to clean them up before you paint them, soak fingers in warm water a few minutes then push cuticles back. Whatever you do NEVER EVER cut them. It can cause infection and ruin your cuticles.
via Buzzle.com
Prep and Shape nail:
** If any of your nails are starting to break:
Instead of ripping it off, use a dab of super glue over the tear, then buff gently with a nail file. Repeat if necessary.
or
Use the tea bag method. Click here to see how.
CUT:
Nails should be the same length so cut down until all nails are uniform.
via Glamcheck
FILE:
Use a file to shape your nails. The most flattering nail shape is not square or oval but somewhere in between. (Square can make fingers look chubby.) When filing, start with a heavier grit and finish with a lighter one that will smooth your nail nicely. Also, remember to file nails in one direction at a time. Going back and forth can create roughness and tears. OH, And don’t file right after a shower… nails are too soft and will tear easier.
- via Pretty Connected
Before you paint, swipe a cotton ball dipped in polish remover across each nail. Even if you aren’t wearing polish…it will remove dirt and oils that may prevent your polish from adhering properly. Rinse afterwards.
Gingerbreadmanne
Polish Prep:
Don’t shake your nail polish bottle. Instead, roll it between your hands. This will mix the polish without causing air bubbles.
via Flaunt Me
Paint:
When you paint, apply thin layers. Thick layers chip easier.
Start with a thin layer of basecoat and let dry.
Then apply a thin layer of polish down the middle of the nail, followed by one on the left and one on the right. Start at the cuticle and swipe polish up in one fluid motion.
via BollywoodShaadis.com
**If your nails tend to chip or you want a longer lasting mani try ”wrapping your tips”…. Click here to see how.
Finish with a top coat.
Post Paint:
Once your manicure is complete, run a cuticle stick or Q-tip dipped in nail polish remover along either side of nail to fix any mistakes.
via Fab At Any Age
Mani Maintenance:
A fresh swipe of topcoat every other day on your manicure will keep the polish from chipping.
via Allure
If you chip your polish you can repair it with a nail buffer. Smooth the ragged edges with the buffer as best you can. The smoother the better. Then fill in the chip with polish. Once it’s dry, apply a coat over the entire nail.
via Nail Buffer Block
Well, there ya have it…. the steps to a perfect manicure. Are there any tips I left out? Please share them if there are! I’d love to hear them!!!!!!!
