Resolution 2 - Master Your Mani
2
By Casey Kettleson
in Beauty Report
on January 03, 2012
Really - you can't do your own nails? Well of course you can! Mastering your own manicure isn't just our second resolution this year, it'll also save you both time and money!
If you've been a member of StyledOn for at least a month, you already know that we're big, BIG fans of nail art. And while we may be serious Shellac addicts, very much into nail trends (both on and off the runway), and adore the new nail strips and treatments, we still believe that being able to do your own mani well is a skill every girl should master. Don't think you can do it? First of all, stop thinking that way. Then just follow our steps below and keep in mind that practice makes perfect...
- Prep. Most people we know skip this step or don't take it as seriously as they should, but the nail prep is really the key to a good looking mani. Begin by cutting or filing your nails as desired (follow your natural nail shape) and cut away dry cuticles. Gently buff the surface and edge of your nails to smooth away visible ridges. Treat cuticles with a healing oil (we love CND's Solar Oil, $7.50) and massage in several minutes. Wash hands and scrub nails and cuticles to ensure the area is as clean as possible before your begin painting.
- Apply a base coat (such as Essie's First Base Base Coat, $8). Not only does this coat help protect your nails, but it also provides the foundation for where the rest of the polish will flow. Take your time and do this step well. Paint the full nail, going as close to the cuticles as possible without touching them. Don't forget to paint the top edge of your nail as well.
- Apply 2 coats of color. We've found the best polishes in terms of application, color variety and wear come from Creative Nail Designs (CND), Essie, and OPI. Designer brands such as Chanel may seem fancy, but they don't last as long and cost 3x as much. The first coat should be applied thinner than the first and completely cover the surface of the nail as well as the top edge. Take your time and clean each nail as you go. The second coat should be applied thicker and in 3 brushes - two on the sides of the nail, with the final one up the center.
- Apply effect layers or glitter coats if desired - perhaps Rococo's Gold Leaf Lacquer.
- Apply a top coat. Just as with base coats, there are many top coats to choose from. For a quicker drying time, we like Essie's Good To Go, $10. For longer wear, try Sally Hansen's Mega Shine Extended Wear Top Coat, $6.99. Apply a full coat to each nail, again covering the complete nail surface as well as the nail edge. Let fully dry.
Ready for more than just your basic mani? Check out 6 cool DIY ideas (with steps and pictures included) here.
Do you do your own manis? What are your tips to getting it right?