Ever since I was a young girl, I have always loved having my nails painted. There was something about the pop of color, the glossy reflection and the immediate feeling of elegance. As a painter (watercolor), getting to paint my nails was a weekly moment of art expression, even in the midst of studying in college. I could do solid colors, glitter, attempt a little design, the possibilities endless and the beauty of it all, it was temporary. I mean, one has to manicure their nails anyway, might as well make your digits look pretty :). With over 10 years of practice, I am very comfortable painting my own nails; I have my own way (which maybe I will post a video at some point, maybe not). Nonetheless, when it comes to nail salons, I just never am satisfied with the work, seeing a mistake that I could have avoided or the fact it is $$$$ for something I could have done for free, minus the initial cost of the tools.
Nail polish is such an easy way to look put together, and truthfully is pretty accessible to everyone. With a steady hand and practice, it is very easy.
With all that, here are some of my tips to getting a good manicure at home:
- Get quality polish. Nothing is worse than it having been 10 hours, your nail hits something and you realize, the polish has not dried yet. Or maybe every time, no matter the thinness of coats, or the steadiness of hands, there are streaks. Makes the whole experience no fun. I personally, and this is not sponsored, love Lights Lacquer. They are quick drying, they even themselves as they dry and I personally really like the wide brush, it makes covering the nail evenly very easy. I always get compliments
- Paint your nails in the morning! Even with the best polish, if my nails are painted too late in the day, I can guarantee the following morning I will have textured nails from the night’s sleep. It is what it is.
- Apply Base Coat: Applying a base coat is essential for a long-lasting manicure. It creates a smooth surface for the polish to adhere to and helps prevent staining of your nails. Choose a base coat that suits your nail type, whether it’s strengthening, hydrating, or ridge-filling.
- Shape before removing your polish: Sometimes with a dark color, it is easier to see the shape of one’s nails and to get an idea of what the nail will look like once the manicure is finished
- PRACTICE! Nail polish should be fun and the more one paints their nails, the easier it gets.
