It’s the age old question, how do you make a DIY at home manicure stand the test of time?!
While polish tends to last longer on acrylic nails, natural nails are a whole different ball game, so we’ve done a bit of research and come up with some top tips from those in the know.
According to expert manicurist Deborah Lippman, time is often a huge factor. In the world of three minute applications or less, it’s hard to painstakingly apply each coat of polish, but this is often the difference between a manicure that lasts beyond a day or two or not.
Start by applying a base coat of clear polish and allow to dry completely. Then apply your first layer of nail polish in your colour of choice, again allowing it to dry completely, apply a second layer of your colour and after it dries, finish with a top coat. Deborah recommends leaving at least two minutes of drying time between layers.
Another problem with DIY manicures is that as we hurriedly apply our polish, most of us lay it on too thick.
Deborah advises applying a very thin layer of polish, particularly for your first layer of colour. Although streaking might occur, don’t worry too much, as a second layer will cover over that.
Following these simple tips and choosing a good quality polish is all it takes ladies!
How do you make your DIY manicure last?
(Images and sources: Love to Know, How Stuff Works, Cosmetic Crave, Harpers Bazaar)