18 Jan 7 steps to a do-it yourself manicure

In today’s day and age, manicures have become a way of life and part of basic hygiene for most women. Manicured nails are the best accessory, whether it be in your LuLulemons or an evening gown, a beautifully manicured hand makes you feel completely put together.

Many women do not have the time to visit their favourite “Bliss Girl” weekly, so here is an easy do-it-yourself guide to a fabulous at-home manicure.

You will need:

• A nail file

• A buffer

• An orangewood stick

• A cuticle nipper

• Cuticle oil

• Hand cream

STEP 1 – FILE YOUR NAILS

On dry nails, using a mild grit nail file, file nails to desired shape. Ideal shape for your hands is achieved by mirroring the shape of your cuticle. Squoval (square with the edges rounded) is most flattering. After filing, lightly buff nails with buffer to remove ridges and rough edges.

STEP 2 – SOFTEN CUTICLES

Apply cuticle oil (solar oil by CND is a Bliss fave) and massage into each cuticle.

STEP 3 – PUSH BACK CUTICLES

Gently push back your cuticles with an orangewood stick covered in cotton. Once pushed back only clip or trim hangnails or excess skin. Do not cut cuticles excessively as they serve to protect your nails from infection.

STEP 4 – MOISTURIZE

Moisturize hands using your favourite hand cream. Apply generously and massage until absorption. Using nail polish remover or acetone, clean nail bed thoroughly to remove any trace of oil before applying nail polish.

STEP 5 – APPLY NAIL POLISH

If you are using Vinylux by CND, you do not need a base coat as it is already built in and saves you a step. Apply two coats of desired colour. Try to stay away from cuticles and seal the free edge of the nail for a longer lasting manicure.

STEP 6 – APPLY TOP COAT

Apply a top coat of choice. Vinylux by CND is a quick dry (8 ½ minutes). Do not forget to seal free edge of nail.

STEP 7 – CLEAN UP SMUDGES

Clean up any colour outside of the edges of your nail with an orangewood stick. The stick should be covered in a thin layer of cotton dipped in nail polish remover or pure acetone. Allow drying time. Time may vary depending on product.

VOILA! Enjoy your perfect at-home manicure.

BLISS GIRLS