The ultimate guide to a better manicure

Up your nail game with these tips

Beauty Crew Beauty Editor / July 20 2016

This winter’s must-have accessory? A set of perfectly groomed hands that you’re proud to show off. Keep your digits looking fresh with a manicure that you can master in the comfort of your own home. All you need are the right tools and a handful of expert tips - read on for more.

1

Tidy up

Start with clean, dry hands, and remove any old nail polish with some remover. Then, tidy up your cuticles by gently pushing the skin back (Sally Hansen’s Push-N-Trim works well in this case), and nip any loose skin with some manicure scissors.

2

Shorten the length

Using Scholl’s Velvet Smooth Electronic Nail Care System, attach the file head and move the tool across the tip of your nail to nix jagged edges and create your desired shape.

3

Buff to perfection

With the same tool, attach the buffing head and move it over the nail in light circular motions. This step is vital as it forms a smooth and even canvas for your nail polish to stick to.

4

Polish it up

Attach the shine head and work it over your nails in light, circular motions once again to leave them looking nice and shiny.

TOP TIP: Nourish cuticles with a thin layer of Scholl’s Velvet Smooth Nail Care Oil, massaged in with your fingers.

5

Prep your base

Continue perfecting your nails with a coat of strengthening base (such as OPI Start To Finish Base & Top Coat) which will protect your polish from staining your nail.

6

Paint it on

Apply two to three even and thin coats of your chosen shade. Allow each layer to be touch-dry in between to help prevent smudging.

7

Top it off

Finish your manicure with a top coat (like above) that’ll boost the shine and longevity of your hard work.

Main image credit: Getty

Iantha is BEAUTYcrew's Beauty Editor, and has been part of the team since the site launched in 2016. Besides pinky-nude nail polish and wispy false lashes, she has a healthy obsession with face masks and skin care ingredients. Her previous work can be found in Virgin Australia Voyeur, Women's Health, and SHOP Til You Drop.

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