While a manicure is a pertinent part of womanly hygiene (every girl needs some fresh polish on their nails), getting one every single month can take a toll on your free time and your wallet (especially your wallet). So if you don’t want to spend the money but you still want the manicure, try doing it yourself in the comfort of your own home. While it may not be perfect, it’s worth the money (free). So here are five steps that will give you the best home manicure you’ve ever had.
1) Wash hands
The first step is thoroughly washing your hands. Get all those dirty germs off before you begin. Use warm water and soap; maybe even try singing a short song as you wash (you want to get your paws nice and clean).
2) Cut and file
After you pat your hands dry it’s time to cut and file. Get out your handy dandy nail clippers and trim each of your nails evenly. Once done, be sure to file down any rough edges. Round each nail just slightly. If you have a nail buffer, buffer each of you fingers. Cuticle clippers are also handy, so if you have one of those (or want to invest), taking the time to use one is most definitely worth it. Soak your nails in soap water for about two minutes, wash them again, and then pat dry.
3) Paint
Once your nails are cut, rounded and ready, it’s time to paint. Pick out your favorite color (a wintery maroon anyone?), and start spicing up your nails. If you have an unsteady hand get your roommate to help you. If she’s not around then do it yourself. Practice truly makes perfect, and eventually you’ll get the hang of it.
4) Top coat
Don’t forget your precious topcoat. Grab your clear OPI polish from your drawer and put a think layer on top of each nail. This will prevent chipping and will leave your nails feeling silky smooth and looking as shiny as ever.
5) Moisturize
Once your nails are all dried (let them air dry for a while), it’s time for the final step: moisturizing. Leaving this step until last is pertinent, because you don’t want to have a difficult time holding the nail clippers or polish brush (lotion tends to get slippery). So once everything is said and done, lather on your most delicious smelling lotion and show of your beautiful home manicure.
via iMaxTree
