1. Dark nail polish may take longer to dry than light polish colors because of denser pigmentation.  Give an extra couple minutes dry time between layers for dark colors to get the best wear.  The thickness (viscosity) of the polish affects drying time as well, thicker = longer dry time.

2. Creme style polishes are more likely to apply unevenly or “streaky”.  You may be inclined to try a thick coat, but you are better off combatting uneven color with 3 thin coats.  When you apply one thick layer of polish not only does it take forever to dry (and inevitably gets smudged) it is also more likely to peel off faster.

3. Glitter polishes will hold onto your nails like baby monkeys.  To make this process a whole lot easier use the same method for removing gel nails.  Soak a small piece of cotton with acetone and place on each nail.  Wrap a small piece of aluminum foil to hold the cotton in place and give it about two minutes; everything will wipe right off.

4. If you get gels or acrylics and have problems with the nails lifting quickly it could be for more than one reason.  You may have heard of “oily nail beds”, but this is rarely the cause of lifting; more likely there is small debris or oil residue on your nails that prevents adhesion or creates air pockets.  Make sure your manicurist does a thorough prep, including cuticle pushing/cleaning, gentle buffing and oil removal.  Clammy hands can cause issues as well, so if this is a known concern for you make sure your manicurist drys your hands directly before application.

5. Your nail health can indicate everything from thyroid problems, infections, lung disease, to nutrient deficiencies.  If you have dry, weak, cracked, soft or splitting nails there may be more than one culprit.  It could simply be exposure to harsh environmental conditions or using too much acetone, which can be drying to the nail bed, but also consider how often you wash your hands per day or what your regular diet is.  Unhealthy nails are best repaired with a combination of external and internal adjustments.

   1. Externally, apply a cuticle oil or balm 1-3+ times per day (best to do without polish, however you will still get benefits if you apply to polished nails); a great time to do this is after you wash your hands because soap removes your natural skin oils.  I find oil during the day and a balm before bed at night.  Also switch from drying antibacterial/synthetic soap to one made from natural oils.

   2. Internally, start by drinking more water!  Maybe you have multiple cups of coffee or soda per day?  These drinks have caffeine, a diuretic, so you’ll need to increase your water consumption to counterbalance the effects.  If you’re not eating a diet full of vegetables, fruits and whole foods (meaning you’re eating a lot of processed/convenience foods) you may end up with a nutrient deficiency.  Iron, zinc, vitamin A, B Complex vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, and essential oil deficiencies can call manifest through poor nail health.  Increase your consumption of leafy greens, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans and cold water fish to start.  Don’t ignore the signs your nails are sending you about your health; if you’re nail beds are any other color than pink, are extremely thick or falling apart see a doctor!

What are your fun facts, tips and tricks for fabulous nails?

Bonus tip – did you know if you follow my “Making Your Mani Last” recommendations your nails can look this great 5 days later (no this is not the original photo, this is a new one!)

5 Days after initial manicure!!