When getting ready to paint our nails, we have in mind our finished product and sometimes rush through the steps to get there faster. Unfortunately, this is a recipe for an uneven finish and a paint job that just doesn’t hold up. So, I think we should dialogue about nail prep so we can recall why it is so important.
Removing old polish – This is step one in the process. Clean nails are your canvas. Make sure you use a cotton ball and polish remover to remove ALL the leftover lacquer. Nails should be smooth if all the polish is gone.
Controlling cuticles – Don’t forget to push those cuticles down. Not only does this make your nails look longer but it makes polishing easier because there won’t be a cuticle in your brush’s personal bubble.
Balancing PH – This is one that many people don’t know about but can really lend a hand in making polish last longer. When you remove polish and then wash your hands, it throws off the PH of the nail for a short while which can cause nail polish not to adhere very well. You can solve this problem by waiting 30 minutes to an hour after hand washing or removing polish to give the nail a chance to re-balance. You can also buy products that do this for you. (We’ll talk about those later.)
Base Coat – This not only helps hold polish on but it also seals the nail so you get better color and a smoother finish. Brush it on and allow it to dry COMPLETELY. You might be tempted to start adding your color when the base coat is still “tacky” but this will make it hard to get an even coat of color and it will take FOREVER and EVER to dry.
Top Coat – This seals your pretty color and aids in keeping the shine for a longer wear. It keeps polish from chipping and wearing off.
Meet me back here next week for more products you’ll love and tips your nails can’t live without!
Can’t wait! Especially because I experienced that my nails get totally dry and brittle from using polish (and I use the expensive base, color and top coats!). Am now nurturing them back to health with no polish, but wonder how others manage who always wear polish …?
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It just depends on the person. Just like some people struggle with dry skin while some are oily, some people have dry brittle nails while others are blessed with keratin rich beauties. Not fair, I know. You may have to limit your use of polish and find something moisturizing a vitamin rich to manage. I’m with you though. My mom has gorgeous nails and I have dry stubby little nails.