Painting my nails used to be a pain before I enlisted the help of one of my friends who happens to be an aesthetician. She gave me some amazing tips for nailing my lacquer application every time, and now I am going to pass them on to you!
Start with clean dry nails: You will get a better application if your nails are free of oil and dirt. Sweep each nail with a cotton ball dipped in polish remover to prep the nail for the next step [it removes all traces of oil].
Don't skip the base coat: The base coat acts as a primer, helping the color adhere better to your nail bed and stretch the life of your manicure.
Apply the polish in this manner:
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| Start by applying a dollop of polish in the center of your nail bed underneath your cuticle. |
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| With your polish brush, slowly push the polish up the nail until slightly underneath your cuticle. Without taking the brush off the nail, pull the polish back down towards the end of the nail. - Repeat this step on the right side of the nail, as well as the left. |
Repeat the steps mentioned above for your second coat of polish!
Also remember:
Use thin coats: Using thin coats will help prevent bubbling and keep your lacquer application thin and uniform.
Wait 2-3 minutes before applying top coat: Some top coats are formulated to dry a bit faster than regular nail lacquer. Top coats that dries faster than your polish could cause those little tiny bubbles. It is best that you wait about 2-3 minutes before applying your top coat to prevent those bubbles.
Top coat recommendation: I LOVE Essie's Top Coat, it gives me a glossy finish every time.
Tips:
Shaky hands? Rest your hands on a sturdy surface to help take the pressure off of your wrists.
Use oil to help with clean up: Lightly apply cuticle oil to your cuticles and the skin around your finger prior to painting your nails. This makes for an easy, fuss free cleanup should you happen to make a few mistakes along the way [the polish will wipe clean because of the oil].
Spend a few extra bucks: Quality polishes like O.P.I & Essie work well without the excess bubbling and streaking.
Don't blow on your nails: Blowing on your nails could cause air bubbles, it is best to let them dry naturally.
Use 100% cotton balls: This prevents those pesky fibers that synthetic cotton balls tend to leave behind!
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