16 DIY Nail Care Tips Between Salon Visits
You have just left the salon with your nails looking fabulous, but maintaining that salon-fresh appearance can be challenging, right? Well, fear not because this guide teaches you how to care for your nails like a pro between salon visits. This article gathered expert advice to help you achieve and maintain those beautiful, healthy nails. Let’s dive right in!
1. Start With A Clean Slate
Before you start taking care of your nails at home, make sure they don’t have any old polish left on them. Use a nail polish remover without acetone to gently clean your nails. This process will prepare them for the next step in your nail care routine.
2. Shape Your Nails
Once your nails are clean, grab a file and start shaping them. You can go for a classic square or elegant almond shape, but remember to file in one direction to prevent splitting.
3. The Soak And Scrub
Give your hands and nails a treat with a warm water soak. Add a few drops of gentle liquid soap to a basin of warm water and soak your nails for about five minutes. This process will soften the cuticles and make them easier to push back.
After soaking, gently use a soft nail brush or an old toothbrush to exfoliate your nails and surrounding skin. This step will remove dead skin cells and keep your nails looking fresh.
4. Cuticle Care
Push back your cuticles gently with a wooden cuticle stick. Avoid cutting them unless you are a pro, as improper cutting can lead to infections. Apply cuticle oil or cream to keep them moisturized and healthy.
5. Nail Strengthener
You might want to use a nail strengthener or hardener to strengthen your nails. Put on a thin layer as per the product’s instructions. This process will help stop your nails from chipping and breaking.
6. Moisturize
Don’t forget your hands! Apply a rich hand cream to keep your skin soft and supple. Pay special attention to your cuticles and nails as well. Massaging them with oil or cream will promote healthy nail growth.
7. Pick The Perfect Polish
Choose a high-quality nail polish in your desired color, like the ones in Pro Nails. Opt for a base coat to prevent staining, two coats of color, and a top coat for a long-lasting shine. Let each coat dry completely before you put on the next one. You can use thin coats to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth finish.
You can change up your nail polish colors from time to time. When you use dark or colorful nail polish a lot, it can make your nails turn yellow. To avoid this, take a break from dark shades and go for lighter ones occasionally.
8. Be Patient
Waiting for your nail polish to dry can be annoying, but preventing any accidental smudges is important. While you wait, you can watch your favorite TV show or do a short meditation to make the time go by.
9. Touch-Ups
You may have experienced a sudden chip or break that threatens to ruin your manicure. To avoid this problem, keep a small bottle of your nail polish color handy for quick touch-ups. This way, you can fix minor chips and extend the life of your manicure between salon visits.
10. Protect Your Nails
Wear gloves when you’re doing chores around the house or handling chemicals. Prolonged exposure to water and harsh chemicals can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage.
Besides those things that can harm your nails, the sun’s strong rays, especially in the summer, can be tough on them, too. So, get into the habit of using a UV-protective top coat to protect your nails from the sun. This extra layer will stop your nail polish from fading and keep your nails from getting weak and brittle.
11. Healthy Lifestyle Habits
What you eat and how you care for your body also play a significant role in nail health. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially biotin, will promote strong nails. Biotin, a B vitamin, promotes nail and hair health. But, most importantly, consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your routine.
Also, remember to drink enough water and try not to drink too much alcohol or tobacco, as these things can harm your nails.
12. Avoid Overuse Of Acrylics And Gels
While acrylics and gels can create stunning nail designs, they can weaken your natural nails if overused. The main culprit is the UV radiation used to dry off acrylics and gel nail polishes, which can damage your nails with frequent usage. That’s why you should try to give your nails a break between applications to let them recover.
13. Regular Maintenance
Set aside some time each week for maintenance. Trim your nails if necessary, moisturize your cuticles, and check for any signs of nail issues like fungal infections or discoloration. Spotting issues early can stop them from getting worse.
14. Be Gentle
You should also be gentle with your nails. Avoid using them as tools to open packages or scratch off labels. Treat your nails with care to maintain their strength and beauty.
15. Maintain Your Tools
The tools you use for your nails are just as important. You should also clean your nail care tools after each use. Sterilize metal tools with rubbing alcohol, and wash brushes and files with warm, soapy water. Keeping your tools clean can prevent transferring bacteria and fungi to your nails.
16. Regular Salon Visits
While this article focuses on DIY nail care, visiting your trusted nail salon is still essential. A professional manicurist can provide services like cuticle maintenance, nail shaping, and special treatments that can’t be replicated at home. Depending on your nail growth and preferences, you can aim for a salon visit every two to four weeks.
Achieve Beautiful Nails
Beautiful, healthy nails don’t have to be a salon-only luxury. These expert DIY nail care tips, allow you to enjoy stunning nails between salon visits. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your nail care essentials, and pamper yourself with gorgeous, salon-quality nails at home. Your hands will thank you for it!
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