It has come to the point where we need to save money on our everyday or even the occasional treats. If you are trying to save money, or your preferred nail technician is too far from you right now, why not attempt mastering your own manicure at home? This can also be very therapeutic for you. You will most likely not get it right the first time around, but you can build on the experience and take enjoyment in the knowledge each time you attempt it.

Here is a guideline to follow for your very own manicures from home.

Preparation

Prepare your nails by first cleaning them of any polish you may have on with nail polish remover. Try a product that is nourishing to your nails. Something that has essential nutrients to help strengthen your nails and moisturise your cuticles. Although you might not have polish on, you'll still want to run a cotton ball of remover over each nail to get rid of any oils or dirt that may have accumulated. Don't forget to wash your hands with soap and water after.

Find your desired length

Clip nails first, if necessary. Some like their nail shape round, others prefer it square, whichever way you wear your nails, trim them accordingly. New trends may not always suit everyone and may not be functional for you. Once you have your own routine down you can start experimenting with new ways of doing things. You will then file gently, moving in one direction. Buff the tops and sides of your nails lightly. Buffing your nails make them brighter and looking more youthful.

Cuticles

Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle stick or one from a nail tool kit you might have. Your cuticles protect your nails from bacteria and keep them soft, so avoid cutting them or damaging them in any way.

Exfoliate

It is important to exfoliate your hands, wrists, and forearms with a scrub that eliminates dead skin cells and replenishes moisture where necessary. Use your cuticle stick to gently clean any grime from under the nails. Wash hands afterward and dry them thoroughly.

Moisturise

Remember to moisturise your hands and cuticles, especially after exfoliation. Take this time to give yourself a mini hand massage. It is essential to replace the moisture to the skin. To finish, swipe each nail with nail polish remover to get rid of residue.

Begin your manicure

Apply a base coat to protect your nails and prevent chipping. Wait a few minutes between each coat, to make sure the layers are completely dry.

Apply your first coat of colour. Make sure the brush goes all the way down to the cuticle and into the corners of your nail. Cover the nail properly with the first coat and the second coat will be easier to apply. Do not overload the brush. Use just enough to cover the whole nail. You generally only require three strokes to cover the whole nail. Try to aim for this each time. Once in the middle and then once on each side of the nail.

Apply your second coat of colour. After the first coat is completely dry, apply the second coat of nail polish. Some shades may require a third coat, but always keep each coat thin and smooth.

A topcoat protects your manicure from chipping and adds shine to the nails. Apply this clear coat just as you did the first two. Remember that it is just as important to have no unseemly stripes on the top.

Make sure to clean up around the edges of your nails. It is best to use a cuticle stick with a small amount of cotton wool wrapped around it and dipped into nail polish remover.

Make sure each nail has had enough time to dry. You do not want to have to keep going back and correcting smudged areas.

You will learn and make the process easier for yourself with each manicure you do from home. Here’s to many happy home manicures.