Do-It-At-Home Manicures
Okay ladies, let's just admit it. There are just times when we just don't feel like going out. Blame it on the hormones or the bad weather, but really, when we don't feel like going out, even a trip to the salon would feel like a drag. Seriously, would you go to the salon for a manicure during a hurricane? Why not try giving yourself a manicure at home just because. Here's how.
Before you begin painting, you first have to remove last week's nail polish. If it starts chipping so that half of your nail is naked, yes, it's time to repaint it. Use a non-acetone nail polish remover because acetone can be too harsh on your nails. Try Cutex® Essential Care™ Advanced Nail Polish Remover Pads.
Next, cut your nails short (just above the tip of your fingers) and file them to smooth perfection. Make sure that it is rounded as well. Start at the edges and move towards the top, filing in only one direction. After this, soak your nails in a mixture of gentle moisturizing soap and water to soften the cuticles. Some like to put in a little olive oil instead of soap. This is fine.
After around ten minutes, apply cuticle cream on the cuticles and rub in. According to reviews, one of the best cuticle creams out there is by Burt's Bees. Make sure that the cream is fully absorbed before you proceed to the next step. Use an orange wood stick to push the cuticles back. Push, not cut. Cutting might give you infections. Apply a moisturizing hand lotion after. We particularly like Aveeno Intensive Naturals Hand Cream. Wipe your nails (and your entire hand for that matter) with a damp cloth or tissue to get rid of the excess oils before moving to the next step.
Apply a base coat and let it dry for roughly about one minute. After it dries, apply two coats of your color of the week. You should be able to cover the entire nail in just three smooth strokes. Do not stop halfway as this will cause your polish to coat unevenly. Start of with the sides and then finish off with the top. Allow it to dry for about a minute or so before applying the next coat. Lastly, apply a top coat to finish off your manicure and prevent it from chipping or fading.
Giving yourself a manicure might be easier said than done, but the best thing about it is that the service is free. You have all the time to yourself as well. So go on, on days when the weather's bad or you just feel like the world hates you, give yourself a manicure and make your nails a little prettier.
