Autumn is here and winter is coming. However, don’t let the weather take its toll on your nails and cuticles. Indeed, the wind and cold can inflict damage on your delicate digits and dry, cracked hands are a common cold weather complaint. Instead keep your hands in tip top condition with a DIY manicure. Luckily for us, the professionals at the elegant boutique Kings Head Hotel, located in the heart of the Cotswolds, have leaked their secrets on how to create a salon-worthy manicure that won’t chip quickly. Here’s 5 IDEAL tips for a DIY manicure by Hannah Osborne, spa manager at Kings Head Hotel.
SOAK YOUR NAILS
Soaking your nails for a couple of minutes will soften your cuticles, making it easier to push them back to achieve a neat finish when applying the polish. This will recreate the high standards achieved at salons.
USE A GLASS NAIL FILE AND THEN A STANDARD FILE
Glass files turns excess nail to dust whilst leaving the edge smooth and sealed. This would stop the nail from tearing, which would make the it weaker and more prone to split.
USE A TRIO BUFFER
Most professionals advise use a Trio Buffer, especially if you have ridges in your nails. Doing this will even out any ridges you have to achieve a smooth finish.
MAKE SURE TO SEAL THE FREE EDGE
Remember to use a clear top coat after applying the colour to seal the tip of your nail, as this will not only leave a shiny finish, but will also prevent chipping.
ALWAYS APPLY A BASE COAT
It’s always important to apply a base coat before you apply the nail polish. Doing this will create an even texture as well as preventing discoloration.