I do my own mani. That way i'm in control of the process and what goes on my nails.
Things I've learned. Feel free to add to the list if you have any more tips.
1. Don't buff your nails to smooth out ridges.
2. Don't use cuticle cutters.
3. Do use a good cuticle oil every night
4. Do use a ridge filling base coat to prevent staining and smooth out the surface. You still may get some yellowing with certain polishes though.
5. Avoid caffeine before painting your nails or you'll end up painting the house.
6. Use a crystal nail file, a bit expensive, but your nails will thank you for it.
7. If you have issues painting with your non-dominant hand use a flat surface and move the hand you're painting instead of the brush.
8. Apply thin coats, the better quality the polish the easier it will be.
9. Always use a top coat to seal the deal.
10. Try to find a polish that hasn't been tested on animals. Bunnies will thank you for it.
11. Find colours you're comfortable wearing. Not everything will suit your mood or personality. It's a woman thing.
12. Use rubber gloves when doing the dishes, manis hate hot water. Just be more careful in general in how you treat your nails if you want to grow them out. Nothing worse than a broken nail that could have been prevented with a little due care and attention.
13. Enjoy the process, it's an art that takes a little practice and patience to master. The world slows down when you paint your nails and wait for things to dry. It's a good me time.
14. When you're ready to remove your polish use a good acetone free remover to prevent drying, followed by a good oil.
15. And the most important tip, always make sure you've had a pee before you start painting your masterpiece. Seriously. Nothing worse than needing the ladies room with wet nails.
