5 Tips for Applying Nail Polish

Nail Polish Tip #1: Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Before applying new polish to your fingernails, you’ll want to remove anything that remains of the old nail polish. Instead of using a harsh acetone solution, look for non-acetone nail polish removers. This will keep your nails healthy and shiny. To remove polish without causing damage, be sure to rub polish away with a cotton pad that won’t scratch the surface of the nail.

Nail Polish Tip #2: Use Acetate Press-On Nails

While acrylic nails can be damaging, acetate press-on nails don’t cause any harm to your nails. If you have a damaged nail, just apply a quick press-on to cover up the damage and prevent nail polish from seeping under the crack in the nail, which can cause irritation.

Nail Polish Tip #3: Always Use a Base Coat

To keep your nails from turning an unhealthy yellow shade, apply a base coat before your coloured nail polish. Start at the white half-moon above the cuticle and apply in an upward motion. Let the base coat dry for 4 to 5 minutes before attempting to apply colour.

Nail Polish Tip #4: Apply Two Coats of Polish

For a professional, salon-quality finish, be sure to apply two coats of polish. Remember to allow each coat to dry before applying the next one. This will help you avoid messing up your manicure.

Nail Polish Tip #5: Let Your Nails Dry

While sitting around doing nothing can be boring, it’s also the only way to make sure you don’t smudge your polish after applying it. Plus, it might be a good excuse to get some much needed downtime!

Check out more healthy beauty tips!
Explore Reader’s Digest Canada.