Steps to achieve gorgeous hands with the perfect manicure, right at home

By: Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | Updated: November 12, 2019 1:32:53 pm

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An impressive manicure is more than just filing your nails and coating them with nail-polish. (Photo: Thinkstock Images)

Making time for a professional manicure is sheer indulgence. Not all of us have the time, money or patience for a nail makeover every week and while you may think the process is time-consuming and can only be done by salon experts, let us tell you it’s not.

However, an impressive manicure is more than just filing your nails and coating them with nail-polish. The ritual can be as extensive as taking care of your face. But that said, you can do it easily in the comfort of your own home.

Here’s what you need in order to give yourself a manicure.

Essentials tools

*Nail polish remover
*Nail clipper
*Cotton pads
*Nail buffer
*Cuticle pusher and nipper
*Cuticle remover or cuticle cream
*Hand moisturiser
*A base coat for the nails
*Your favourite nail polish

Here’s a simple guide that you can follow to give yourself a manicure at home.

Remove any traces of nail polish

It is better to use a non-acetone nail polish remover as it does not dry out the skin around your nails. (Photo: Thinkstoick Images)

To begin with, remove the nail polish that you are wearing. Use a non-acetone nail-polish remover and cotton pads to remove your old nail-polish gently.

If you use a nail-polish remover more than once a month, it is better to use a non-acetone one as it doesn’t dry out the skin around your nails. While acetone-based nail-polish removers work much faster, they can damage your nails.

Start with the shape

For filing your nails, always opt for a soft nail file to prevent tearing or splitting your natural nails. (Photo: Thinkstock Images)

Here comes the second step, which primarily includes filing and clipping your nails. A salon-standard manicure starts with perfectly shaped nails. Try avoiding metal or coarse nail files — both are too harsh for natural nails and can cause damage. For filing your nails, always opt for a soft nail file to prevent tearing or splitting your natural nails.

Buff before polish

Be careful not to over-buff, though since it can weaken your nails. (Photo: Thinkstock Images)

If you want your nail colour to last well beyond three days, you have to eradicate all traces of dirt, oil and polish residue to give it a clean base to cling to. This is achieved by buffing, which brightens, smoothes and creates natural shine in addition, giving you a perfectly prepped base to paint on. Buffing is essential for perfectly prepped nails. For this step, use a soft and smooth four-way block or buffing file. However, be careful not to over-buff, since it can weaken your nails. Three-four swipes are more than enough.

Paint it like a French girl

Aim to paint in three strokes by starting in the middle of the nail. (Photo: Thinkstock Images)

It is always suggested you apply a clear base coat to your nails before painting to prevent staining. Aim to paint in three strokes by starting in the middle of the nail, pushing it towards the cuticle in a clean line. Repeat on each side until the entire nail is coated.

Remember to always seal the deal by running your topcoat along the top edge of your nail after application, too. This will help minimise chipping and in turn extends wear-time.

Put an end to chipping

Ensure that you focus especially on your fingers and the area around your nails. (Photo: Thinkstock Images)

Remember, a little maintenance means your manicure will really last and continue to look perfect for a longer period. Apply a cuticle oil and massage your hands with a hand rich and thick moisturiser for intense moisturisation. If you want, you can even soak your hands in warm water for 30 seconds before applying moisturiser for good absorption. Ensure that you focus especially on your fingers and the area around your nails.

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