Affordable nail care is pretty easy to find right now, but sometimes you may not always have the most satisfying experience.  For years, Asian-owned nail salons have been my place of choice for a simple nail job until a little light bulb went off in my head and I discovered that I could do it myself.  I have tons of nail products anyway so the deed was as good as done.  To be honest though,  I’ll never completely give up on my girls because they always do a great job, but nail maintenance in between visits is especially vital.

I have five products in my regimen that target specific problems.

Problem: Dry cuticles

Prescription: Cuticle oil and Revlon cuticle remover

Problem: Dry hands

Prescription: True Blue Spa Just a Minute Hand Scrub

Problem: Weak nails

Prescription: Nicole by O.P.I. Vitamin Plus nail fortifier

 

Problem: Slow growth

Prescription: Sally Hansen Maximum Growth top coat

Color is always optional in your regimen, it surely never hurts!

I perform a quick manicure on myself that lasts for days.  The routine is really simple, and can be repeated every few days or as needed.  I try to do mine every four to five days because the polish starts to look dull.

First, I apply the Revlon cuticle remover to the cuticle and the sides of the nails.  This helps to soften the cuticles and remove the dead skin.  Rinse.

This next part is important because it keeps your nails in tact.  I use the True Blue Spa sugar scrub to exfoliate my hands and in between the fingers. I also take the scrub and place it over the cuticles and gently scrub away any excess skin.  I did this after four months of missing a manicure at the nail salon and my cuticles looked so fresh afterwards.

Next, I dry my hands off and apply a light coat of lotion.  You can use your judgement to figure out what works for you.  I personally use any body cream or butter that I may have.  I apply two coats of the nail fortifier and finish off with the clear maximum growth top coat.  You can apply color of course, but sometimes I opt for healthy and simple looking nails.

Finally, you’re just going to apply a little cuticle oil to the cuticle after the polish dries.  This helps to lubricate the cuticles and lock in moisture.  Use moisturizing gloves to lock in the oil.

This regimen will only take out a few minutes of your day and it’s well worth it.  DIY nail care is always affordable and worth it, especially because salon visits can become costly.  Try it out, it works wonders for my hands!