DIY Manicure: Secrets From The Salon

If your do-it-yourself manicure didn't turn out the way you hoped, don't blame the nail polish! Top manicurist Eugenya Viner, of the Aida Thibiant Salon, in Beverly Hills, California, says that the condition of your nails and cuticles makes all the difference in your manicure. Here are some common manicure mistakes to avoid, according to Viner (courtesy of Ladies Home Journal):

Mistake #1: Filing nails in the wrong direction. Don't saw your nails; instead gently file them down at an angle to the nail, file from left corner to center for a few strokes, then from right corner to center.

Mistake #2: Neglecting cuticles. Rough, ragged cuticles can lead to painful hangnails. Put a dab of rich cuticle oil on your cuticles after showering and before bed.

Mistake #3: Cutting cuticles. Your cuticles act as a barrier against bacteria - clipping your cuticles increases the risk of skin and nail infections. Instead, dip your hands in warm water and push your cuticles back with a washcloth or soft Q-Tip.

Mistake #4: Skipping base coat. Without a base coat, your nails can become stained or dried out from your polish. Always use a moisturizing base coat on clean, dry nails and let the base coat dry before applying polish.

Mistake #5: Leaving polish on too long. Nail polish has a tendency to dehydrate nails and once the polish begins to chip, it can peel away a layer of the nail. It's good practice to remove nail polish once a week, wash your hands and reapply nail polish for a fresh and cleaner look.

Trimming Your Nails The Right Way

How do you shorten your nails? Do you use an emery board or nailclippers? Emery boards are better for natural nails because they are softer and have less of a damaging effect. The use of nailclippers on natural nails can actually break, chip, and peel the nail. A good emery board should be replaced every 2-3 months, depening on use.

Eat Your Vegetables

Want a great hand creme that really rehydrates and makes a difference? Try CO Bigelow Dr. Hiosous Quince Hand Lotion. This creme "provides carrot seed extract that provide a barrier to dry hands and feet." Carrot seed oil is rich in carotol and has scientifically proven rejuvenating qualities. A barrier seals in moisture to protect outer layer and new skin cells underneath.

How to Correctly File Your Nails

Do your natural nails crack and chip a lot? Before you invest in cutting edge nail polish or miracle nail hardener, try filing your nails. Improper nail filing can result in nail cracks and chips. Start by filing from outer edge of your nail in, on both sides of the nail. Filing as if you were sawing can ruin the nail and crack nail instantly. Less filing can help build up nail strength.

Why Natural Nails Turn Yellow

Curious why your nails have a stained yellow look? According to professionals in the industry biz, wearing dark nail polish can be the answer. Darker color polish can cause a chemical reaction between the nail polishes coloring agent and the nail plate, according to nail queen Sally Hansen. This can happen in a matter of days or weeks of wearing the nailcolor. If you love your darks, but don't like the yellow-look, use a light buffer to rid nails of yellowness and use a base coat rich in vitamins to reduce the yellowing of nails.

Take Your Vitamins

A good diet can help improve your nails, and taking the right vitamins will result in harder nails. Want to fill in the ridge's in your nails and get stronger nails? 1. Eat high-quality protein and fiber foods including eggs, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. 2. Make sure your diet has a good combination of fresh fruits and vegetables. 3. Sulfur- and silicon-rich foods like onions, broccoli, fish and sea vegetables all help to harder your nails. 4. Eat foods high in B vitamins. Want to supplement your diet? Try looking for a base coat or polish infused with Calcium and Vitamins (especially B5). These can be found at any local drugstore or beauty supply store. Use daily to create a natural look and make nails harder.