How To Avoid Making Mistakes With Your Nails And Keep Them Looking Fantastic

Lovely hands and nails

Yes, we seem to write a lot about nails, but that's because looking after them and making the most of our nails, long or short, is so important. They can make or break the look you want, and there is nothing so annoying as tatty, uneven, broken nails or cuticles .... it makes you just want to hide your hands away. If you are unhappy with your home manicure, it is unlikely to be the products you are using, such as your nail polish, which is at fault - it's more likely to be your nail care techniques which are not quite up to scratch - so here are some helpful hints to look after your pinkies.

File Your Nails In One Direction

Don't use your nail file like a see-saw on your nails as this causes the nail ends to split and flake. File gently from each corner towards the centre with smooth strokes.

Never Cut Your Cuticles

Your cuticle is there for a purpose - it seals your skin against bacteria. Cutting cuticles is not a good idea, they will normally end up ragged and sore. Instead soak your hands in warm water (you can add a few drops of almond oil to the water to moisturise as well), and then using a cotton bud or orange stick gently push your cuticles back from your nail.

If You Have Dry and Cracking Cuticles - Moisturise Them

If you have had your hands in water a lot or it is wintery weather you may experience dry and cracked cuticles. Use either a specially formulated cuticle cream or oil to moisturise them each night before going to bed to soothe them.

Change Your Nail Polish At Least Once A Week

Nail polish remover should not be used too often on your nails as it is very drying and you should avoid the ones containing acetone if possible. But make sure you remove any polish from your nails at least once a week as leaving on chipped nail polish does not only look horrible, it can also start peeling off the top layer of your nail as it comes away.

Always Use A Base Coat Before Applying Polish

Never use nail polish - particularly dark or vibrant shades - without a base coat first as your nails are likely to become stained a nasty yellow colour, which does not look good on anyone. Also some base coats contain Vitamin E and other nutrients which are good for your nails and help them remain strong.