1. Keep Your Hands Moisturized
Dry hands can look dull and aged. To keep your hands looking youthful and beautiful, moisturize them regularly. Invest in a good quality hand cream and apply it several times a day. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter or glycerin.
2. Protect Your Hands
Our hands are exposed to various environmental aggressors, such as sunlight and harsh chemicals. To protect them, always wear gloves when performing household chores or working with cleaning agents. Additionally, apply sunscreen on the back of your hands before leaving the house to shield them from the sun’s harmful rays.
3. Shape Your Nails Properly
When filing your nails, always shape them in one direction only, preferably using a soft file. Avoid back and forth motion, as this can weaken and damage the nail. Choose a shape that complements your hand shape and personal style. Popular nail shapes include square, oval, almond, and stiletto.
4. Don’t Cut Your Cuticles
Your cuticles have a vital role in protecting your nails from infections. Instead of cutting them, gently push them back using a cuticle pusher or orange stick after showering or soaking your hands in warm water. This will give your nails a neater appearance while keeping them healthy.
5. Apply Polish Like a Pro
Applying nail polish can be quite challenging, but with the right technique, you can achieve salon-like results. Start by applying a base coat to enhance the longevity of your manicure. Follow with two coats of your favorite polish, allowing each layer to dry completely. Finish off with a top coat to prevent chipping and add shine.
- Remember to clean your nails with nail polish remover before applying a fresh coat to remove any oils or residue.
- If aiming for a perfect application, use a thin brush or cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to clean up any mistakes around the cuticles.
- For a smoother application, paint three strokes on each nail: one down the middle and one on each side.
6. Hydrate Your Cuticles
Healthy cuticles contribute to overall nail health. Apply cuticle oil or a nourishing oil blend to keep them hydrated and prevent dryness. This will also make it easier to push them back during your next manicure.
7. Take Breaks from Polish
Although we all love beautifully manicured nails, it’s essential to give them a breather from time to time. Take breaks between manicures to let your nails breathe and prevent discoloration or brittleness. Allow them to rest and recover by going polish-free for a week or two.
8. Maintain Good General Hand Care
Avoid excessive hand washing with hot water, as it can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness. Whenever possible, use lukewarm water and a gentle hand soap. Also, protect your hands from extreme cold or hot temperatures by wearing gloves.
Follow these tips and tricks consistently, and you’ll be on your way to flaunting perfect hands and nails that will leave everyone impressed. Remember, a little love and care can go a long way in achieving flawless results!