How To: Apply Nail Polish

Perfect nail polish, image via vi.sualize.us

I have recently began paying a lot more attention to my nails. I am inspired by the likes of Nubby Tiwglet, whose nails never fail to impress me.

My favorite brand is OPI, who boasts an impressive, high quality, range of colors. Paired with a top and base coat, the polish remains glossy and is stubborn come removal.

this color i really have my heart set on.

The greatest piece of advice on how to apply nail polish is to just practice, but that said, there are some methods that are more correct than others.

Next time you’re applying nail polish, try these steps. If you are relatively new to using nail polish, I recommend sticking to pale or sheer colors. Mistakes are far more visible when using dark or opaque colors and are therefore best left to the more confident applicator (unless you have a lot of time for corrections, of course).

How to: Apply Nail Polish

1. Before you begin, you must prepare your nails. This involves removing all traces of previously applied nail polish with nail polish remover. This is also the time to cut your nails to the length you desire, and use a nail file to eliminate rough edges or sharp points. Once you’re ready, wash your hands thoroughly before moving onto the next step.

2. Apply a single coat of nail base coat. I use OPI base coat, but the majority of good nail polish brands have their own version. Base coats protect your nails, particularly from staining, and prepare a smooth surface on which to apply the polish.

3. To prepare the nail polish, roll and tip the bottle around. This will it allow it to mix evenly. Don’t shake it, shaking it creates air bubbles and we don’t want those. When removing the nail polish brush, wipe the brush on the inside of the bottle first to remove any excess.

4. You’ll want to apply two coats of nail polish, waiting for the first to dry before starting on the second. Using the brush, stroke the center of the nail from base to top, followed by one stroke on either side. You want to keep most of the nail polish toward the center of the nail. The second coat will even out and ‘fill in’ your application.

5. Apply a clear ‘top coat.’ Again, I use OPI but any brand will do. This gives your painted nails a glossy sheen, protects them from chipping and elongates the life of the manicure.

6. Touch up using a q-tip dipped in nail polish remover, or a manicure corrector pen (these are quite useful). Remove any splatters on your skin, or around the nail.

7. Leave your manicure to dry completely before embarking on any activities that require nail contact.

The seventh and final tip is perhaps the most important, the majority of my failed manicures can all be attributed to a general lack of patience.