How to Give Yourself a Fresh Manicure

Why spend money on the things you can do yourself? Every now and then, an indulgence is nice. However, when you are trying to stay in budget, DIY is a no-brainer…especially when it comes to a fresh manicure!

You’ll be how surprised by how inexpensive and amazing this beauty how to is! Check out this beauty tutorial on how to give yourself a fresh manicure right from the comfort of your home!

How to give yourself a fresh manicure at home!

Get your tools:
The perfect manicure from your own home is simple, with the right tools. All you need are the essential tools to turn those nails from claws to cute. The tools include but are not limited to:

• Nail-polish remover and cotton swabs or pads
• Nail clippers
• Emery board and nail buffer
• Cuticle pusher and nippers and/or cuticle remover
• Hand/nail moisturizer,
• Base coat, Nail polish, Clear topcoat.

You won’t need all the tools listed but it’s nice to have them readily available.

Remove old color off nails:

You must remove any color or polish from your nails and start with a clean no color nail. The key question when choosing a nail polish remover is if acetone should be a primary ingredient or not. Many people argue which one is better, so the choice is really up to.

If you want to take the polish off quick, nail polish remover that has acetone is better. However, non-acetone polish remover is gentler on the nail.  If you have sensitive nails (you can tell by how easily they bend), you may be better off with a non-acetone remover.

Shape your nail:

Shaping the nail varies from person to person. If you prefer a certain nail shape you must first clip your nails to the desired length to help the shaping process.

Take your filing tool, and gently shape the nail into the desired look. It is vital that you avoid metal or extremely coarse nail files to minimize splintering and causing harm to your cuticles and nails.

If you prefer a professional finish, try a gently abrasive emery board or crystal nail file. Take a buffer and smooth the tops and sides of the nails with a slightly abrasive buffer to ensure an even surface.

Don’t buff the nails too smooth just a few strokes will do the job, because the polish won’t adhere as well and can literally slip right off.

Remove Excessive skin around cuticle:

Now is the time to use the cuticle tool to push down your cuticles. Be mindful not push your cuticles back too far because it can cause damage to your nail growth! If it hurts, you’ve pushed down too far. Be careful not to pull, lift, tear, or cut your cuticle. Simply nip off the dead skin, because the cuticle helps protect the nail bed.

Moisturize:

Once all the dead skin has been removed, now apply lotion to your hands and cuticles. Massage a rich cream into your cuticles to help replenish your skin.

Polish:

Before you get ready to apply the polish of your choice, sure your nails have no oil or lotion on them. Use a cotton swap to apply nail polish remover to your nails to remove any extra residue.

Use a base coat to help keep your nails strong, Sally Hansen’s Hard As Nails is a favorite.

Next, apply 2 -3 coats of colored nail polish.

Once that has dried apply a top coat of clear nail polish to give your nails that final pop.

A key note when drying your nails is doesn’t have your nails directly under the fan. The fan’s airflow causes bubbles in your polish.

Related: 6 Hacks for Growing Stronger Nails

Whether you are giving a manicure to one of your friends or getting one yourself, it can be fun and relaxing. Do you prefer to get your manicures done or do it yourself?  Doing your own manicure at home is convenient and inexpensive all in one! The next time you think about going to the nail salon, think about this simple beauty how to! Stay in touch with City Girl Savings by following us on Instagram and Twitter. We love hearing back from the community so like our Facebook and give us a shout out.

-Taelor

The CGS Team