Glossy nails have the power to make you feel instantly pulled-together in a way that no facial or blow-dry can.
However, after what can seem like hours of soaking, shaping, filing and painting, nothing ruins your mani mojo more than having it chip an hour after you apply the last coat.
Unless you live in a protective bubble, everyday activities have the potential to damage your nails, meaning your typical manicure will last you four days if you’re lucky.
In an effort to save your precious time (and money), we consulted the experts for their tips on products, prep and application so your talons look like they just left the salon – no matter when you last visited.
Nail care and maintenance
Always soak – never peel
We know we shouldn’t, but we do.
However, picking off gel polish can cause long-lasting damage.
“Nails are composed of cells called keratinocytes,” says Amber McIver, owner of Verdo Parnell in Auckland.
“By peeling off gel yourself, you’re taking with it the top layers of these delicate cells, resulting in white patches, uneven texture and brittleness,” she warns.
For a gentler approach, remove by soaking cotton balls in nail polish remover and place over the polish, sealing with tinfoil for up to 10 minutes. “It should flake up and come off with ease,” says McIver.
Shape shifter
Although they’re ultra trendy, almond – and stiletto-shaped nails are more prone to breakage.
“You have to file away the side walls of the nails, which in turn, takes away the natural curve, making it a lot weaker,” says Auckland-based nail expert Heather Vette.
The most wearable shape, she says, is “squoval” (a compromise between square and oval), that is also easy to maintain on shorter nails.
Top tip
“Every day after your shower, use your towel to gently push back the cuticles on your nails, as they will be soft and more pliable,” says Light.
The nail files
When it comes to filing our nails, this one step can encourage breakage if done too vigorously. Take the time to do it right.
You should be filing toward the tip of your nail on each side of your finger.
Start by filing the sides to get the shape you want, then finish the tip in one direction.
As for your choice of file, celebrity nail artist Leah Light recommends a gentler tool, such as a glass file or emery board for home use.
“It’s important to remember that nail files are numbered in grit size just like sandpaper,” she says.
“If the grit on the nail file is coarse (lower than 180) I would recommend finding a more suitable file, in order to not damage the natural nail.”
A little bit of luxury
According to Light, both cuticle oil and hand cream are important for your overall nail health.
“Cuticle oil helps keep the nails flexible along with preventing nail peeling and separation, and it’s also very hydrating for the nail plate,” she says.
“A high quality hand cream will keep the skin on the hands supple and moisturized and application will enhance blood flow to the nails and encourage growth.”
