It’s time to come right out and say it, manicures can be expensive. They’re great for pampering, but they put a big dent in that wallet if done too often. So, here are some quick and easy tips for a homemade manicure that will save time and money.
1. Use A File
Filing is necessary for achieving strong, even nails. Only file nails when they are nice and dry, or else they are more likely to weaken and split. Doing so will also help shape the nail according to preference.
2. Soak ‘Em
Soak nails prior to painting in order to get the most polished finished. Applying moisturizer and then dipping the fingertips in warm, soapy water for roughly five minutes will loosen the cuticles and prepare them for the next step.
3. Push Don’t Clip
Many people make the mistake of cutting and peeling their cuticles in an attempt to create the illusion of a larger nail. The problem, however, is that cuticles prevent infection, so the trick is to push them back, not remove them.
4. Apply A Base-coat
Don’t skip steps in an attempt to hurry the process along. A base-coat is necessary, it’s actually the most important for a smooth look. If applied, the base-coat will help the polish last longer and help to avoid chipping.
5. Polish With Two Coats
There’s no time for laziness, do two coats! The trick is to apply two thin coats with minimum stroke coverage. Make sure to cover the tip of the nail as that is the first place that flaking occurs. Waiting a few minutes between each coat will prevent clumping and smudging.
6. Add A Topcoat
A topcoat is the key ingredient to long-lasting nails. It may take a bit longer to dry than the other coats, but it’s worth the wait. It helps prevent fading and will keep the polish looking fresh for days.
7. Q-tip it
One thing about homemade manicures is that it’s difficult to not “color” outside the lines. Smudges are inevitable, so dip the end of a Q-tip in nail polish remover and use it as an eraser around the nails’ edges.
8. Wait And Dry
Patience is a must. Don’t try to carry on with the day’s activities immediately after the last stroke of polish. Waiting for nails to air-dry is an option, but blow-drying can also help speed up the process. And just like that you’ve got a free manicure!
