What is the best way to maintain my nails? I tend to let them grow out until at least one or two breaks, and then I cut them all short and start over.
Having struggled with this myself, I have total sympathy for you! Here are a few tips and recommendations for getting your nails in tip-top shape.
Better Shape Up!
Like your hair, nails can snag and split at the free edge. Regular maintenance is key. Choose an oval, or try a trendy pointed shape if you are feeling adventurous. Squared-off styles can be attractive but can be the worst offenders for nails that are prone to splitting. Be realistic about length! Long nails can be lovely, but they are impractical for most people, especially active ones. File your nails in long strokes from the outside edge to the center, avoiding filing towards the outside edge as much as possible. I love the Crystal File from Nail Tek. It will file beautifully for ages and comes with its own travel case, so your sunglasses won’t suffer scuffing if tossed together in your purse.
For salon results at home, wait until after you shower so your cuticles are soft. If you have really stubborn cuticles, try applying some Blue Cross Cuticle Remover before taking a manicure stick or cuticle pusher and gently pushing back or trimming your cuticles.
All About The Base
Be sure to clean your nails with polish remover first to ensure adhesion.
Always use a base coat if you are going to wear polish. Without one, most nail polish shades can stain your nails an unsightly yellow color, which is impossible to remove.
Are you taking a break from polish? Skip it and use a strengthening treatment instead. OPI Nail Envy can be used alone or even with polish inside for the best of both worlds! Most treatments can also be used with regular polishes, so nail polish lovers don’t have to skip a beat!
Polished Perfection
Apply two thin coats of your favorite polish. Avoid going all the way to the side and bottom edges. This will lengthen nail wear by keeping the polish from adhering to the surrounding skin or cuticle and later lifting. Oopsies happen. For a quick clean-up, try the Correct & Clean Up Pen by OPI. Let your polish dry for a few minutes before applying a topcoat. Apply your topcoat just like a color coat, and be sure to cap the free edge for added strength and longevity.
The hardest part: Let it dry completely! This usually takes 8-10 minutes. You can check for dryness by touching two of your nails together face to face. If it sticks at all, it’s still wet. Need to speed things up? Demert Nail Enamel Dryer Spray will help set your polish in a jiffy. Finish by applying a small amount of cuticle oil to your nails and cuticles to protect your polish when it is nearly dry or dry.
Keep Up The Good Work!
Follow up with weekly manicures. Keep your file handy and gently reshape your nails often. Apply your favorite hand & body moisturizer and cuticle oil often to lock in moisture.
You should expect to see some great results in no time!
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