Let's Nail It Part 1

Awww, nothing feels good like a manicure! Just the idea of neat nails make me happy. However, most people go to extreme lengths to get their nails done! I mean, going to the salon and paying large sums of money - well, if you can afford it, then by all means go ahead! But to those out there who can't, its still possible to get good nails!
We are going to look at:
- The Basic Manicure
- Right tools
- Upkeep of nails
- Good brands for nail care



The Basic Manicure
Right, I've heard so many variations on the basic manicure. The one I've heard the most of would be:
-remove old polish
-soak your nails in warm water for 10mins (you can add a couple drops of oil like olive oil)
-clean nails - file and buff them
-apply cuticle oil and massage into nails and nail bed
-remove the cuticle oil, or allow to be absorbed
-follow with nail polish if you like.

Now, I used to follow this procedure. But, its too time consuming. Therefore, I came up with my own. It is easy and my nails always look good (well, except those times when the nail polish decided to chip). This is how I do my nails:
-remove old polish
-wash my hands thoroughly (i may use a scrub also)
-apply hand cream (avoid nails if following with polish. if not, then rub in some cuticle oil!)
-clean nails (file and buff)
-follow with polish
-add cuticle cream

As you can see, its nice and simple and nothing long. It does the job as well. I purposefully put the cuticle cream on last because the oils in it will affect the application of the nail polish. Sometimes, I wait till my nails are dry before I even apply hand cream. Yes my hands are dry - but I rather have nice nails than soft hands.

Tools
Good nail care REQUIRES good tools! Cant be stressed enough! Now, the best tool that I can tell you guys is a glass/crystal file. Now, price ranges from drugstore to department store. The best I've heard of is Essie's Crystal File. The price is high, but it lasts you a lifetime. Based on my memory, I think it is the glass file that doesnt last as long whereas the crystal file that lasts longer. Other crystal files need to be replaced or sharpened - but a good one doesnt!


Ordinary emery boards can snag and tear your nails - particularly if not used right - if you've noticed your nails peeling, your file could be the problem. Whereas a crystal file is more gentle and wont cause your nail to peel. Also, a metal nail file tears the nails! Obviously, when these tools are used properly, you dont tear your nails, but it is better to be safe than sorry! A metal nail file and the emery boards - enemies for your nails!

Come back next week for part 2!!!