What makes a good manicure

If line-shaped, a square shape is recommended. When it comes to the actual filing, you'll want to file "from the sidewall to the center on either nail," Logan recommends, as "seesaw filing can cause hangnails.

Swiping it in one direction on either side of the center will ensure a smoother finish sans hangnails. After you've filed, it's time to buff the nails in order to "create a smooth surface" on which you'll be painting, according to Logan.

To buff your nails, you'll need to glide a nail buffer across each nail for a few seconds, moving back and forth until you can feel and see that the nail is smooth. You might wonder if this step is truly necessary or if you can skip it when you're in a pinch. But going straight into painting your nails sans buffing will have a noticeable effect on the way your polish turns out.

For allover smoothness, "exfoliate your hands at least once a week," says Goldstein. Her method: Massage a scrub, such as Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish , over hands and nails in circular motions, paying extra attention to your cuticles and knuckles. Rinse and dry.

Although many in-salon manicures will include trimming of the cuticles, New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Howard Sobel recommends against doing so at home. Keeping your cuticles hydrated with an oil or serum shouldn't just be reserved for your manicure. You should keep them hydrated at all times. Look for oil-based versions that help with hydration. Sadly, some salons use products can that damage your nails. Before the manicure starts, a good nail technician should explain to you the products they will be going to use on your nails.

Specifically, avoid products that contain methyl methacrylate, they are harmful. When going for your next manicure, watch out for these good manicure tips.

They will help you get a neat and long lasting manicure. Your email address will not be published. What Makes a Good Manicure? Good cleaning The first step in any manicure should be thorough cleaning on your nails. Safe trimming Trimming should be the primary focus of the manicure. Care for the cuticles Never have your cuticles cut. Base coat and polish Applying a base coat before the glaze is necessary. Riveting embellishments A good manicure should leave your nails looking ravishing.

Skip navigation! Story from Nails. For much of the country, the weather is finally starting to warm up, which means open-toed shoe season is right around the corner. Not so fast. As for drying, air-dry or use a blast of cold—not hot—air to assist.

Got a little overzealous with polish? For smudges, you can gently use your finger to push polish back into place before adding a layer of top coat. After all your hard work, a few good habits can extend the life of a DIY manicure. It helps keep the skin around your nails healthy and promotes healthy nail growth. Narva is a huge fan of hand creams —two of her favorites are from Omorovicza and Tatcha.