DIY Manicure & This Summer's Hottest Colour!

This summer's hottest nail colour is bright yellow, get O.P.I's yellow in 'Need Sunglasses' for the perfect trend this coming season!

When wearing bright colours on your nails it is really important to ensure your nails are in top condition, here are some great tips on getting your nails in perfect shape for summer -

DIY Home Manicure

1 - To begin with, remove all traces of your nail polish, even if you don't have any on clean the nail plate first anyway.
2 - Use a nail file to shape your nails. File in one direction only & do not use a seesaw motion. To shorten the nail, use the course side of the emery board first and finish with the finely textured side.
3 - Apply cuticle remover cream and gently push back the cuticles using a cotton bud. Don't cut your cuticles, leave that to the professionals, massage away dead skin using circular movements.
4 - Apply a rich hand lotion & massage the palm of your hand with the thumb of your other hand to improve blood circulation, then repeat with your other hand. For an extra moisturising treatment if you feel your hands are dry wear plastic base gloves after applying a generous amount of hand cream (marigolds are great for this)
5 - Before you paint your nails, go over them with an orange stick that has been wrapped with cotton wool and dipped in nail polish remover and rub over the surface of the nail & into the sides as well. This will clean the nail plate & allow a smooth application of polish.
6 - Begin by applying a Base Coat first, this will give a professional finish to your polish.
7 - When applying the colour begin in the centre of your nail, the best way is to paint one stroke down the centre and then one at either side of the nail, three strokes in total. Let it dry completely before applying the second coat.
8 - Apply a topcoat to give extra protection and help your nail color to last longer without chipping.

For healthy nails eat foods that are rich in Vit A, B & C plus Calcium as well as protien rich foods as deficiencies in these areas can cause nail conditions such as - Dry Brittle Nails, Hang Nails, White Bands & Spots Across the Nail Plate, Split Nails as well as inflamed Cuticles. One excellent way to ensure strong healthy nails is to drink plenty of Carrot Juice, a quick fix to perfect nails!

Also another little tip, to keep your favourite polish in top condition, store it in the fridge!