A tidy set of nails is one of the most affordable little luxuries there is. This category covers cosmetic care for natural and enhanced nails, including designs, polish, gel and press-on systems, removal, and product choices at every price. You’ll find help here whether you’re painting your nails at the kitchen table or deciding what to ask for at the salon.
Choosing the manicure that fits your life
The right manicure depends on how long you want it to last, how much you want to spend, and how much time you have. It’s worth thinking about removal before you begin, because some long-wearing systems take far more effort to take off than to put on.
Regular polish
Regular polish is the cheapest and easiest place to start. A base coat, two thin coats of color and a top coat will usually hold up better than one thick coat. It comes off easily with remover, which makes it a good choice if you like to change colors often.
Gel and builder gel
Gel polish cures under an LED or UV lamp and is generally made to last longer than regular polish. Builder gel is thicker, and it’s used to add strength and structure to a nail. Both products need the right lamp and careful application, so read the brand’s directions before you start. Keep uncured gel off your skin, because repeated contact can lead to an allergy.
Dip powder and press-ons
Dip powder offers a durable finish, though it can be harder to remove and takes practice to get smooth. Press-on nails are a low-commitment way to get a salon-style look at home, and many can be taken off in a single sitting. A good fit and clean, dry nails make all the difference to how long press-ons stay on.
The main sub-topics in nails
This category is organized around four main sub-topics, which take you from the first design idea to the moment it’s time to take everything off.
Designs For Nail Art
Designs For Nail Art gathers ideas for every season and skill level. These range from simple French tips and soft pastels to classy designs for short nails. Many looks need nothing more than a steady hand and a toothpick, so you don’t have to buy a kit before you try one.
Natural Nail Care
Natural Nail Care focuses on the nails you already have. It looks at strength, shape, cuticle oil and the small daily habits that help prevent breakage. Gentle filing, keeping nails moisturized and treating them as jewels rather than tools can go a long way.
Nail Removal
Nail Removal explains how to take off polish, gel, dip powder, acrylics and glued-on nails at home. Patience is the key, because peeling or prying can take layers of your natural nail with it. Acetone is flammable and drying, so use it in a well-ventilated room, away from heat or flame, and moisturize afterward.
At-Home Pedicures
At-Home Pedicures shows you how to look after your toes and heels without a salon appointment. It covers soaking, smoothing, trimming and polishing with simple tools you may already own. If you have diabetes, poor circulation or a foot problem that worries you, please ask a doctor or podiatrist before trying foot care at home.
What this category leaves out
This category covers cosmetic nail care and isn’t medical advice. Medical nail or foot conditions aren’t covered here. If you notice pain, swelling, signs of infection or a lasting change in a nail, please see a doctor. For more ways to finish a look, you can visit Makeup.
