Manicures and pedicures are a popular way to keep nails looking neat and tidy whilst also providing a much-needed pampering session. However, constantly visiting the salon for a fresh coat of polish can be time-consuming and costly.

With the right care, you can make your nail treatments last longer, thereby reducing your need for regular salon visits. Here are the top five tips for long-lasting manicures and pedicures:.

Tip One: Prep Your Nails

The key to any long-lasting manicure or pedicure is preparing the nails correctly before applying any polish. Begin by removing any old polish using a non-acetone remover.

Acetone-based remover can dry out the nail and cause breakage, making it harder to apply a smooth base coat. Once the old polish is removed, file your nails into your preferred shape and buff away any ridges. Make sure to clean your nails using soap and water afterwards to get rid of any oil or debris.

Tip Two: Apply a Base Coat

A base coat serves as the foundation for your nail polish, ensuring that it goes on smoothly and evenly. Applying a base coat also helps to protect your nails from staining and damage caused by chemical-heavy nail polishes.

Look for a base coat that is specifically designed for your nail type, whether that be brittle, weak, or prone to chipping.

Tip Three: Choose Quality Nail Polish

Not all nail polishes are created equal. Investing in high-quality nail polish will not only give you a better finish but will also last longer.

Look for nail polishes that contain fewer chemicals and are enriched with vitamins and minerals that promote healthy nail growth. Higher quality polishes also tend to dry faster and require fewer coats, making it less likely that you’ll damage the surface whilst waiting for them to dry.

Tip Four: Dry Your Nails Completely

Once you’ve applied your polish, make sure to give your nails enough time to dry thoroughly. Avoid using your hands or feet for at least an hour after application. If you’re in a rush, use a quick-dry spray to speed up the process.

Another trick is to finish off your manicure or pedicure with a cold water rinse. By exposing your nails to cold water, the polish will harden and dry faster, ensuring that it stays put for longer.

Tip Five: Protect Your Polish

Now that your nails are looking fabulous, it’s important to protect them from damage. Avoid exposing your nails to any harsh chemicals, such as cleaning solutions, and wear gloves when doing household chores.

When it comes to removing your polish, use a non-acetone remover to avoid damaging your nails. Finally, moisturize your nails and cuticles daily to help maintain their strength and flexibility. Use a moisturizer that is specifically designed for nails, enriched with vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, calcium or jojoba oil.

Regularly moisturizing also helps to prevent your nails from developing brittle and dry.

With the right care and precautions, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures and pedicures without the need for regular salon visits. Follow these top five tips and say goodbye to chipped and flaky nail polish, hello to healthier and longer-lasting nails!.