All the Manicure Essentials You Need for Salon Nails At Home

I know there is always room to grow, but if it’s one thing I know without a doubt it’s nails. I keep up with the new formulas, techniques, all of it. Now, you might assume since I am a self-proclaimed nail encyclopedia that I get my nails done all the time and keep a fun and interesting set. That could not be further from the truth. I actually prefer to do my own nails, which I believe made me learn so much about them. Let’s be honest here for a sec, going to a salon does not mean you are getting the best quality manicure. I learned quickly when my nails would chip 2 days after that I can do this on my own; and better.

Tools

Many people like to skip right over this part and get straight to the polish. You need a few tools to clean up the nail beds and cuticles. First, a nail file is essential. You don’t need anything fancy here any one will do. Just make sure to file in one direction to prevent splitting the nails. A cuticle pusher is key as well. I am firmly against clipping the cuticles. Have you noticed when you clip your cuticles the skin grows back rough and dry? Kind of like a scab because that skin is supposed to be there. Just push it back some for a clean base. Finally, a buffing block. This is the key to a smooth ridge free nail. (click images to shop)

Base Coat & Cuticle Cream

First, you will need a cuticle cream or oil to loosen up any dead skin on the nails to be pushed back and off. I use this one by Sally Hansen. I also really love Julep’s and CND’s cuticle oil. Now for your base coat, pick something that addresses your nails concerns. I want my nails to be as strong as possible so I stick with OPI’s Nail Envy. (click images below to shop)

Top Coat & Polish

You might assume that the polish is the most important part of manicure and it’s actually the opposite. Pick whatever color and formula you like. A lot of brands have long wearing formulas these days so if chipping is a concern I would gravitate towards one of those. Although, I think I have found a way around chipping and that is with CND’s Vinylux topcoat. My nails never ever chip with this topcoat. At the most, they wear down a bit but never chip. And it actually does last a full 7 days. Why have a line of Vinylux colors as well for double the wear. I personally pick out polish based on color alone, Sally Hansen’s Rose Quarts has been my favorite neutral lately.

Cover image via Everyday Health


Previous
Previous

How Hookup Apps Changed 'Dating' Forever

Next
Next

August 2019 Horoscopes: We’re Feeling Dangerous, Babe...